Double J Stents: A Nightmare for Some, A Trouble Only When Ignored for Others

Ureteroscopic lithotripsy for renal or ureteral stones is a standard technique performed by every urologist. Double J (DJ) stents are a part of this surgery. This study investigated how patients' compliance affects the time of DJ stent removal.

The cases of patients aged 20-80 years old who underwent transurethral ureteroscopic lithotripsy were reviewed. The duration of postoperative DJ stent retention was set as 21-28 days in all cases, and a duration of 14-35 days indicated compliance. Short durations signified intolerance, and long durations were considered negligence. The age, gender, stone side, level and size, and educational level and behaviours regarding stent removal of the patients were compared.

A total of 146 patients were included. The duration of DJ stent retention ranged from two days to 152 days (mean 36.6 days). Amongst the patients, 66 were compliant with the recommended removal time of 28 ± 7 days, whereas 80 were noncompliant. The mean age of the group unable to tolerate stents was significantly lower (p = 0.032) that those of other groups. When the patients were divided into two groups on the basis of educational level (low and high), a significant relationship was observed between compliance with stent removal timing and educational level (p = 0.036).

Postoperative planning is critical for young patients. This study demonstrated that a significant number of patients are unaware of the timing for DJ stent removal. Educational status, in particular, should be taken into consideration. Various measures, such as mobile phone applications, reminder short message service (SMS) messages and record-keeping systems, can help prevent complications caused by forgotten stents.