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. 2023 Sep 27;85(11):5716-5719.
doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000001294. eCollection 2023 Nov.

Bladder stone formation due to neglected double J stent: a case report

Ali Jawad  1 , Hussein Hamdar  1 , Ali Alakbar Nahle  1 , Hussein Taher  2 , Ali Faisal Ahmad  3 , Adnan Ahmed  3
Affiliations

Bladder stone formation due to neglected double J stent: a case report

Ali Jawad et al. Ann Med Surg (Lond). .

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Double J (DJ) stents are commonly used in genitourinary procedures, but they can lead to complications including infection, hematuria, encrustation, and stone formation. The longer the duration of encrustation, the greater the risk of complications and renal dysfunction. Forgotten stents pose challenges for patients and can require endourological or open surgical procedures.

Case presentation: A 40-year-old man with hypertension and coronary artery disease had a forgotten DJ stent for 3 years, causing suprapubic pain and dysuria. Kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) revealed a coiled DJ stent with a large bladder stone and encrustation, and an open cystolithotomy was successfully performed. Recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged without complication.

Clinical discussion: Ureteral stents, including the DJ stent, are commonly used for urological conditions but can cause complications if retained beyond the intended timeframe. Optimal timing for stent removal is crucial, and patients' healthcare knowledge and adherence are critical to preventing retention. KUB X-ray can evaluate stent encrustation and bladder stones. Cystoscopy is the typical approach for stent removal, but supplementary interventions may be necessary. Open surgery was recommended for removing a large bladder stone and encrusted stent in this case.

Conclusion: Timely removal of DJ stents is crucial to avoid complications. Extended retention can cause problems such as encrustation and stone formation. Patient education and adherence are essential to prevent retention and forgetfulness. This case report highlights the importance of careful management of patients with DJ stents for optimal outcomes and prevention of complications.

Keywords: case report; double J stents; encrustation; large bladder stone.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Preoperative kidney, ureter, and bladder showing entire coiled double J stent with a stone in the bladder in contact with it accompanied by encrustation.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Removed double J stent and bladder stone accompanied with encrustation.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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