Trends of ureteral stent usage in surgery for diverticulitis

Many believe that the use of ureteral stents in colorectal surgery for diverticulitis aids prevention and easier identification of ureteral injuries; others argue that the added time, cost, and risks of stent placement negate potential benefits. Even among providers who use stents, selective use is common. Among unclear consensus, it remains unknown if the use of stents is growing.

Patients in the National Inpatient Sample who underwent a partial colectomy or anterior rectal excision for diverticulitis between 2000 and 2013 were included (n = 811,071). Trends in ureteral stent use, multivariate logistic regression of factors influencing stent placement, and linear regression of length of stay (LOS) and costs associated with stent use were examined.

Usage of ureteral stents increased from 6.66% in 2000 to 16.30% in 2013 (P < 0.0001). Rates of stent usage were higher with laparoscopic surgery (19.31% versus 12.31% open, P < 0.0001). Regression demonstrated patients in the Northeast (Midwest odds ratio (OR) 0.49 [0.37-0.66] P < 0.0001, South OR 0.60 [0.45-0.80] P = 0.0004, West OR 0.30 [0.22-0.41], P < 0.0001), and those whose admission was elective (OR 2.37 [2.08-2.69], P < 0.0001) were more likely to receive stents. Stent use was associated with an increased LOS (0.55 days, P < 0.0001) and cost ($1,983, P < 0.0001).

The use of ureteral stents in surgery for diverticulitis has steadily increased since 2000, despite the lack of consensus of their overall benefit. Stent usage is associated with laparoscopic surgery and varies widely among regions of the country. Further studies are required to truly understand the risk-benefit ratio of ureteral stenting and to determine if its increased use is warranted.