Ureteral stent biomaterial encrustation after endoscopic lithotripsy: a randomized, single-blind study

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Biomaterials Science
• Infectious Disease

Background:

• Ureteral stents are commonly used after procedures for urinary calculi.
• Stent material and coatings can influence biomineralization and bacterial adhesion.
• Reducing stent-related complications is crucial for patient recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare bacterial, calcium, and magnesium adherence to three different ureteral stent types.
• To evaluate the impact of stent coating composition on adherence.
• To identify stent characteristics that may reduce complications.

Main Methods:

• Randomized assignment of 61 patients to three stent groups: Percuflex (Hydroplus), Tria (Percushield), and InLay Optima (pHreeCoat).
• Stent retrieval and analysis after 1 month.
• Quantification of calcium and magnesium using atomic absorption spectrometry.
• Measurement of bacterial adherence via flow cytometry.

Main Results:

• Significantly higher median amounts of calcium and magnesium adhered to Percuflex stents compared to Tria and InLay Optima.
• Percuflex stents showed the highest median bacterial adherence, though not statistically significant.
• Coated stents (Tria and InLay Optima) demonstrated reduced biomineral and bacterial attachment.

Conclusions:

• Ureteral stent coating significantly impacts calcium and magnesium adherence.
• Advanced coating materials may reduce bacterial colonization.
• Selecting ureteral stents with superior coatings can enhance patient outcomes and decrease stent-related complications.