Massive incrustation on silicone ureteral stent: a severe complication

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Medical Device Complications

Background:

• Silicone double-J ureteral stents are commonly used to treat upper urinary tract obstruction.
• Stent encrustation and stone formation are known complications, but rarely cause complete obstruction.

Observation:

• A case of unilateral upper tract obstruction was observed.
• The obstruction was caused by significant incrustation and stone formation on a silicone double-J ureteral stent.

Findings:

• The primary cause of the stent complication was attributed to the patient's underlying neurological bladder dysfunction.
• Concurrent urinary tract infection was identified as a significant contributing factor to the encrustation and stone formation.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare but serious complication of double-J ureteral stents.
• It underscores the importance of considering patient-specific factors like neurological bladder dysfunction and infection in stent management.
• Further research may be needed to explore preventative strategies for stent encrustation in high-risk patients.