Forgotten ureteral double-J stents and related complications: a real-world experience

Abstract
Background
Double-J (DJ) stents are among the basic and commonly used tools in urology. The DJ stent generally needs to be replaced or removed within 6 weeks to 6 months to avoid complications like encrustations, stone formation, fractures and blockades of stents. However, in many cases the stent is forgotten. In this retrospective study, we report our experience in the management of forgotten stents and steps taken by us in preventing DJ stent-related morbidity.

Results
Of the total of 30 patients, 80% (n = 24) underwent previous procedures in other hospitals and the remaining 20% (n = 6) were from our hospital. The mean age of the patients was 56.66 years. The mean duration of the indwelling stent in situ was 13.83 months. The indications of indwelling stents included ureteroscopic lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Presenting complaints for which patients visited hospital were flank pain (n = 10; 33.33%), dysuria (n = 9; 30%), hematuria (n = 3, 10%) and fever (n = 2; 6.66%).

Conclusion
Forgotten DJ stents can be a source of severe morbidity. Patients’ and relatives’ educational level and counseling before and after the procedure may play a significant role in reducing stent-related complications.