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Recent development and future application of biodegradable ureteral stents
Ke Hu1,2, Zhipeng Hou2, Yuanbin Huang1
1Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
|April 4, 2024
Summary
Biodegradable ureteral stents (BUS) offer a promising alternative to traditional stents, reducing complications like infections and discomfort. Recent advancements focus on tailored properties for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Ureteral stenting is crucial for managing upper urinary tract disorders and obstruction.
- Permanent ureteral stents are associated with adverse effects like encrustation, infection, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
- Biodegradable ureteral stents (BUS) are emerging as a solution to mitigate these complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in biodegradable ureteral stents (BUS) over the last five years.
- To analyze the characteristics and performance of novel BUS materials and coatings.
- To explore future clinical applications and potential benefits of BUS.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies published within the last five years on biodegradable ureteral stents.
- Analysis of material properties, degradation profiles, and functional characteristics of various BUS.
- Evaluation of reported clinical outcomes and performance metrics of BUS in treating ureteral obstruction.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in developing BUS with tailored properties, including antibacterial, anticolithic, and antitumor functionalities.
- Demonstrated potential of BUS to reduce LUTS and encrustation compared to traditional stents.
- Emerging stent coatings and materials are enhancing biocompatibility and controlled degradation.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable ureteral stents represent a significant innovation in managing ureteral obstruction, offering improved patient comfort and reduced complications.
- Continued research into novel materials and coatings will further optimize BUS performance for diverse clinical needs.
- BUS are poised to become a standard of care, transforming treatment paradigms for upper urinary tract disorders.
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