Review Article - Indwelling JJ ureteral stents-A current perspective and review of literature

Aims & Introduction: To provide the surgeon with information and physical data so as to optimize the safety and efficiency of the ureteral stents in their patients. To review the current literature on the use, implications and complications of indwelling double-J (DJ) ureteral stents. To review the properties and qualities of various types of available stents and the biomaterials used to manufacture them.
Material and Methods: A Pub-med literature search was carried out using the key words ureteral stents, ureteral stent complications, ureteral stent materials, DJ stents, polyurethane stents, silicone stents and hydrogel stents.
Results: The salient findings were reviewed and tabulated to depict the stent type, their merits and complications.
Conclusion: DJ stents constitute an important armamentarium in the hands of the endourologist. Routine use is not justified, as they are not free of complications. Their use must be strictly restricted to selected cases and one must be familiar with their merits and demerits. Certain precautions and guidelines must be observed whenever they are deployed. Adequate training is of utmost necessity because in untrained hands they may do an irreparable harm rather than any benefit. It is important to remember that the stent is a double-edged weapon and it may behave as a friend or an enemy.

Keywords
Stent complications, Encrusted stents, Polyurethane stents, Hydrophilic stents, Forgotten stents, DJ stents, Indwelling ureteral stents