Removal of retrievable self-expandable urethral stents: experience in 58 stents

Eur Radiol. 2006 Sep;16(9):2037-43. doi: 10.1007/s00330-005-0125-x. Epub 2006 Mar 10.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of removing retrievable self-expandable urethral stents using a retrieval hook wire. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the removal of 58 polyurethane or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)-covered stents was attempted in 33 patients using a retrieval hook wire. Indications for removal were elective removal (n = 21), stent migration (n = 19), formation of tissue hyperplasia around or inside of the stent (n = 14), stent deformity (n = 3), and severe pain (n = 1). The mean time the stents remained in place was 64.8 +/- 42.9 days (range, 1-177 days). Fifty-six (97%) of the 58 stents were successfully removed using the retrieval hook wire despite the following difficulties; hook wire disconnection (n = 2), untied drawstrings (n = 3), and polyurethane membrane disruption/separation (n = 4). The removal procedure using a retrieval hook wire failed in two stents (3%) which had migrated into the urinary bladder. One of the two stents with migration into the urinary bladder was removed using a snare through the cystostomy route. The overall complication rate was 14% (seven hematuria cases and one urethral tear case), and all were minor and spontaneously resolved without further treatment. In conclusion, removal of retrievable urethral stents using a retrieval hook wire was safe and effective despite some technical difficulties. It is a useful method for allowing temporary stent placement and solving various complications of stent use.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Device Removal / adverse effects
  • Device Removal / instrumentation*
  • Device Removal / methods*
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Outpatients
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Safety
  • Stents* / adverse effects
  • Urethra* / diagnostic imaging