Clinical factors predicting ureteral stent failure in patients with external ureteral compression

Double-J stent (DJ) placement is usually the treatment of choice for relieving external compression of the ureter. However, in some cases DJ function may become impaired and a percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) may be required. Previous studies have reported different predictive factors for choosing PCN or DJ insertion as the initial treatment. In this study, we analyzed the risk factors for DJ failure in patients with external ureteral compression. Our results showed that the patients with moderate and severe hydronephrosis (p-value = 0.0171 and 0.0249, respectively), preexisting pyuria (p-value = 0.0128), or lower ureter obstruction (p-value = 0.0305) were more prone to DJ laterality. Age was also an important predictor. Urologists should pay more attention to these patients and consider PCN as the initial treatment.