Clinical experience with ureteral metal stents

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Biomaterials Science
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Ureteral metal stents (MSs) are utilized to maintain renal pelvis drainage when ureteral patency is compromised by intrinsic or extrinsic factors.
• MSs represent a promising alternative to traditional polymeric stents for complex ureteral pathologies.
• Current applications in benign and malignant ureteral obstruction yield encouraging outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current clinical applications and limitations of ureteral metal stents.
• To highlight the ongoing research and development aimed at improving MS design and performance.
• To discuss the future role of MSs in managing ureteral pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical literature on ureteral metal stent applications.
• Analysis of reported outcomes and adverse effects associated with MS usage.
• Discussion of emerging trends in MS design and material science.

Main Results:

• MSs demonstrate effectiveness in preserving ureteral patency and offer an alternative for challenging cases.
• Common adverse effects include stent obstruction, encrustation, infection, migration, and patient discomfort.
• Research is focused on developing more inert materials and advanced stent designs.

Conclusions:

• Ureteral metal stents are valuable tools in managing ureteral obstruction, despite existing limitations.
• Continued innovation in stent design is crucial to overcome current challenges and enhance long-term efficacy.
• MSs are expected to become a standard treatment for various ureteral conditions.