Name of the Procedure:

Removal (via snare/capture) and Replacement of Internally Dwelling Ureteral Stent via Percutaneous Approach, including Radiological Supervision and Interpretation.

Summary

This procedure involves removing an existing ureteral stent and placing a new one, guided by imaging tools, through a small incision in the skin.

Purpose

The primary purpose is to replace a ureteral stent that has either become occluded, displaced, or requires updating to ensure proper urine flow from the kidney to the bladder.

Indications

• Persistent urinary tract infections
• Blockage or narrowing of the ureter
• Kidney stones
• After certain types of urinary surgeries
• Assessment of improper urine drainage from the kidney

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustment or temporary cessation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners).
• Pre-procedure imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans.
• Blood tests to assess kidney function and clotting status.

Procedure Description

1. Patient Preparation: The patient is positioned on the procedure table, and a local or general anesthetic is administered.
2. Imaging: Radiological imaging (X-ray, fluoroscopy) is used to locate the stent.
3. Incision: A small incision is made in the skin and a guidewire is introduced percutaneously.
4. Snare/Capture: A snare or capture device is used to grasp and remove the old ureteral stent.
5. Reassessment: The ureter and kidney are reassessed via imaging.
6. Replacement: A new stent is placed using guidewires and imaging guidance.
7. Final Check: Post-placement imaging ensures the new stent is positioned correctly.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's catheterization lab or a specialized radiology suite.

Personnel

• Interventional Radiologist or Urologist
• Radiology Technologist
• Nursing Staff
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Injury to the ureter or nearby organs
• Discomfort or pain at the incision site
• Rarely, allergic reaction to contrast material used in imaging

Benefits

• Relieves urinary obstruction
• Reduces infection risk
• Improves kidney function
• Usually, benefits are realized within a few days after the procedure.

Recovery

• Monitoring in recovery room for several hours post-procedure.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Instructions for site care and activity restrictions (e.g., avoid heavy lifting for a few days).
• Follow-up appointments to check stent position and kidney function.

Alternatives

• External urinary drainage (nephrostomy tube)
• Open surgery to remove or replace the stent
• Shockwave lithotripsy for stone removal
• Each alternative has distinct pros and cons involving recovery time, efficacy, and patient suitability.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure.
• Post-procedure pain is typically managed with oral painkillers.
• Mild discomfort at the incision site, which resolves within a few days.
• Clearer urine flow and relief of urinary symptoms typically within a few days.