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Review
. 2020 Jul 31:12:303-314.
doi: 10.2147/RRU.S233981. eCollection 2020.

Strategies to Improve Patient Outcomes and QOL: Current Complications of the Design and Placements of Ureteric Stents

Meghana Ramachandra  1 , Ali Mosayyebi  2   3 , Dario Carugo  2   3 , Bhaskar K Somani  1
Affiliations
Review

Strategies to Improve Patient Outcomes and QOL: Current Complications of the Design and Placements of Ureteric Stents

Meghana Ramachandra et al. Res Rep Urol. .

Abstract

Ureteric stents have played a vital role in relieving urinary obstruction in many urological conditions. Although they are extremely successful, stents have been associated with complications and reduced patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). There are many factors that may affect the quality and longevity of stents. In this review, we have highlighted the journey and innovation of ureteric stents through the modern day. A literature review was conducted to identify relevant articles over the last 20 years. There is a plethora of evidence with various indications for the use of ureteral stents and how they affect QoL. There is still ongoing research to develop the ideal stent with reduced encrustation, one that resists infection and is also comfortable for the patients. Stents made from metal alloys, polymers and biodegradable materials have unique properties in their own right but also have certain deficiencies. These have been discussed along with an overview of newly developed stents. Certain pharmacological adjuncts have also been highlighted that may be useful to improve patient's tolerance to stents. In summary, this paper describes the features of the different types of stents and the problems that are frequently encountered, including effect on patients' HRQoL and financial burden to healthcare providers.

Keywords: encrustation; health-related quality of life; infection; stent symptoms; ureteral stent.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Effect of ureteric stent on patient symptoms and quality of life.
Figure 2
Figure 2
(A): Normal stent position. (B): Stent displaced, crossing the midline with encrusted bladder coil of the stent.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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