Intracaval Migration of Ureteral Stent

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Ureteral stents are essential in endourology, but complications can arise, especially with prolonged indwelling times.
• Complications include incrustation, infection, stone formation, obstruction, and migration, though migration is infrequent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of ureteral stent migration in a pregnant patient.
• To highlight the diagnostic and management strategies for this unusual complication.

Main Methods:

• A pregnant patient with acute obstructive pyelonephritis received a ureteral stent.
• Post-delivery, the stent was found to have migrated to the right atrium via the inferior vena cava.
• Endovascular retrieval using a curved guide under fluoroscopic control was performed via femoral vein access.

Main Results:

• The ureteral stent migrated from the urinary tract into the cardiovascular system, reaching the right atrium.
• Endovascular retrieval was successful without further complications.
• The patient experienced a favorable outcome following the retrieval procedure.

Conclusions:

• Ureteral stent migration into the heart is a rare but serious complication.
• Prompt diagnosis via imaging and successful endovascular retrieval are crucial for patient management.
• This case underscores the importance of vigilance for stent migration, even in unusual circumstances.