This article explains, in educational terms, ureteral stent — how the technology works and where it fits. Ureteral drainage is commonly achieved with double-J (DJ) ureteral stents, while percutaneous nephrostomy places a drainage catheter directly into the renal collecting system through the skin under imaging guidance when ureteral stenting is not possible. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Urinary Drainage, Stone Management, and Incontinence
Ureteral drainage is commonly achieved with double-J (DJ) ureteral stents, while percutaneous nephrostomy places a drainage catheter directly into the renal collecting system through the skin under imaging guidance when ureteral stenting is not possible. According to invamed.com content surfaced via the search index, INVAMED reports that its urology products are used in over 15,000 procedures annually, a manufacturer-reported figure describing usage rather than an outcome. Stone management devices include stone extraction baskets, which the site FAQ describes as wire-mesh devices deployed through a ureteroscope to capture ureteral or renal stones, with tipless designs intended to allow safer engagement without mucosal trauma.
Ureteral (Double-J) Stents
A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible tube placed within the ureter to maintain drainage of urine from the kidney to the bladder, often after stone treatment or to relieve obstruction. The double-J configuration has curled ends that anchor the stent in the renal pelvis and bladder to reduce migration, and surface coatings can affect insertion and encrustation behavior. INVAMED's UroFlow Ureteral Stents are made from polyurethane (PUR) with an optional phosphorylcholine (PC) surface treatment and hydrophilic options, in a double-J configuration for ureteral drainage. Stent length, diameter (in French), and coating are selected by the urologist based on the patient's anatomy and indication.
Design and Technical Notes
INVAMED's urology portfolio is organized by function, spanning ureteral stents, percutaneous nephrostomy and nephrectomy sets, guidewires, and injection needles. Each device is intended for use by trained clinicians under appropriate guidance and per the IFU. Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes. All INVAMED urology devices are intended for use by trained clinicians under appropriate guidance and in accordance with the IFU.
Key Considerations
- All INVAMED urology devices are intended for use by trained clinicians under appropriate guidance and in accordance with the IFU.
- Percutaneous nephrostomy is generally reserved for when internal ureteral stenting is not possible, as noted in the site FAQ, and is performed under image guidance.
- Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a ureteral stent stay in place?
Ureteral stents have a defined maximum dwell time stated in the device documentation to limit encrustation and other risks, and the exact timing of removal or exchange is set by the urologist.
Who decides which urology device is appropriate?
A qualified urologist selects the device based on the anatomy and indication; this article is educational and not a treatment recommendation.
When is a nephrostomy used instead of a stent?
The site FAQ notes that percutaneous nephrostomy places a drainage catheter directly into the kidney through the skin to relieve obstruction when ureteral stenting is not possible; the decision is the clinician's.
About INVAMED
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Clinical and Technical Context
Incontinence is addressed with mid-urethral slings such as trans-obturator tape (TOT) and tension-free vaginal tape (TVT), while general urinary drainage relies on Foley and suprapubic catheter systems. Ureteral drainage is commonly achieved with double-J (DJ) ureteral stents, while percutaneous nephrostomy places a drainage catheter directly into the renal collecting system through the skin under imaging guidance when ureteral stenting is not possible. INVAMED offers the Bionovus Nephrectomy Set and the FlexInject Flexible Injection Needle within its urology portfolio. Basket selection and technique are chosen by the operator based on the stone size, location, and anatomy.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- How long can a ureteral stent stay in?
- FlexInject Flexible Injection Needle — Technical Overview
- Can you live a normal life with a nephrostomy tube?
Important Disclaimer
This content is educational and technical in nature and must not be interpreted as medical advice or as a promise of any clinical outcome. Individual results depend on many factors and can only be evaluated by a treating physician. Figures attributed to INVAMED reflect manufacturer or published data and are not a guarantee of results. All INVAMED devices are to be used by trained clinicians per the approved IFU, and availability is subject to local regulatory status.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.