Kidney stents have been a lifesaving medical device for nearly two decades and are used to treat renal artery stenosis. This is a narrowing of the arteries that lead to the kidneys, which can cause high blood pressure, heart failure, and other health problems. A kidney stent is inserted into the artery to keep it open, allowing blood to flow freely to the kidneys. Without a kidney stent, these patients would likely need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive. This medical device allows many people to live healthy lives with their original kidneys.
What is a kidney stent, and what does it do?
A kidney stent is a small, metal tube placed in the urinary tract to help relieve blockages. The stent helps to keep the ureter (the tube that drains urine from the kidney) opens and allows urine to flow more freely. Kidney stents are often used to treat kidney stones or other conditions that obstruct the urinary tract.
How is a kidney stent inserted into the body, and who performs the procedure?
Kidney stents are usually placed using a special X-ray technique called fluoroscopy. A small, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the ureter, and the stent is then passed through the catheter and positioned at the site of the obstruction. The stent is then expanded and left in place. The procedure is generally performed by a radiologist or urologist.
There are two types of kidney stents:
- Coiled stents: These stents are made from a helical coil of wire that is expandable. They are most commonly used to treat urethral strictures.
- Polyurethane stents: These stents are made from a tube of biocompatible polyurethane that is expandable. They are most commonly used to treat ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstructions.
What are the risks
What are the risks associated with having a kidney stent implanted in your body, and are they worth taking these risks to save your life?
The decision to insert a kidney stent is usually made after other less invasive treatments, such as ureteral dilation, have failed. Kidney stents are generally safe and effective, but they can cause some side effects, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones.
If you have been diagnosed with a ureteral stricture or UPJ obstruction and your doctor has recommended a kidney stent, you may wonder if the procedure’s risks are worth taking to save your life.
Kidney stents are usually made of a material compatible with the human body, such as silicone or polyurethane. The stent is inserted through a small incision in the side of the patient’s abdomen and threaded through the ureter to the point of obstruction.
Once in place, the stent expands and holds open the ureter so that urine can flow freely from the kidney to the bladder. Kidney stents are usually left in place for six to twelve weeks, at which time they are removed through another small incision in the side of the abdomen.
Kidney stents are generally safe and effective, but some risks are associated with the procedure. The most common risks include the following:
- UTI: One of the most common complications of kidney stents is a urinary tract infection. UTIs can occur when bacteria from the bladder or urethra enter the kidney through the stent. Symptoms of a UTI include fever, chills, urinary frequency and urgency, and flank pain.
- Kidney stones: Another common complication of kidney stents is the formation of kidney stones. Stones can form when urine flow is obstructed by the stent or when debris accumulates in the stent. Symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain in the abdomen, flank, or groin; blood in the urine; and nausea and vomiting.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Infection: There is also a small risk of infection at the site of the incision or the insertion site of the stent.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to the material used to make the stent. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, and swelling.
Overall, the risks associated with kidney stents are small, but they are worth considering before undergoing the procedure.
How long do I have to wear it?
How long will I have to wear a kidney stent after it is implanted, and how often will I need to see my doctor for follow-up appointments?
In most cases, you will need to wear a kidney stent for about 6 weeks after it is implanted. You will need to see your doctor for follow-up appointments every 2-4 weeks. After removing the stent, you will need to see your doctor for occasional follow-up appointments to ensure your kidney is functioning properly.
How about my lifestyle?
Do I need to make any lifestyle changes after having a kidney stent implanted in my body, such as changing my diet or exercise habits?
Following your doctor’s recommendations after having a kidney stent implanted is important. This may include changes in diet or exercise habits. Kidney stents are typically made of metal mesh and are used to treat blockages in the urinary tract. They are usually inserted through a catheter (a thin tube) into the ureter (Which carries urine from the kidney to the bladder).
After the stent is in place, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out any debris that may have been dislodged during the procedure. Your doctor may also recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a period of time to allow the area to heal. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about lifestyle changes after kidney stent implantation.
What if I’m not eligible?
What other options are available if I am not eligible for kidney stents?
If you are not eligible for kidney stents, your doctor may recommend another treatment option called percutaneous nephrostomy. This minimally invasive procedure involves placing a small tube through the skin and into the kidney. The tube helps drain urine from the kidney and can be left in place for a time. In some cases, a stent may be placed in the ureter to help relieve any blockage and improve urine flow.
Conclusion
Kidney stents are a safe and effective treatment option for blockages in the urinary tract. They are typically made of metal mesh and are inserted through a catheter into the ureter. Kidney stents can help to improve urine flow and relieve any pain or discomfort associated with blockages. In most cases, you will need to wear a kidney stent for about 6 weeks after it is implanted. You will need to see your doctor for follow-up appointments every 2-4 weeks. After the stent is removed, you will need to see your doctor for occasional follow-up appointments to make sure that your kidney is functioning properly. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations after having a kidney stent implanted.