Bladder stone formation due to neglected double J stent: a case report

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Medical Device Management

Background:

• Double J (DJ) stents are vital in genitourinary procedures but pose risks if retained.
• Complications include infection, hematuria, encrustation, and stone formation, escalating with duration.
• Forgotten stents present significant patient management challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the complications associated with forgotten Double J (DJ) stents.
• To emphasize the importance of timely stent removal and patient adherence.
• To present a case requiring surgical intervention for a forgotten, encrusted DJ stent and bladder stone.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 40-year-old male with a 3-year retained DJ stent.
• Diagnostic imaging included Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) X-ray.
• Surgical intervention involved open cystolithotomy for stent and stone removal.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with suprapubic pain and dysuria due to the forgotten stent.
• KUB revealed a coiled DJ stent with a large bladder stone and significant encrustation.
• Successful open cystolithotomy was performed with an uneventful recovery and discharge.

Conclusions:

• Timely removal of DJ stents is critical to prevent complications like encrustation and stone formation.
• Patient education and adherence are essential for preventing stent retention.
• This case underscores the need for vigilant management of DJ stents to ensure optimal patient outcomes.