Below is an educational, technical answer to a question many patients and clinicians ask. 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. 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
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. This clinical area covers urinary drainage, stone management, and the treatment of incontinence, using devices that maintain or restore the flow of urine and support the management of stones.
Can you live a normal life with a nephrostomy tube?
Many people are able to carry out daily activities with a nephrostomy tube in place, following the care guidance provided by their clinical team. The tube requires attention to hygiene, securement, and periodic exchange, and certain activities may need to be adapted. The experience varies depending on the underlying condition and individual circumstances. Guidance on activity and care with a nephrostomy tube is provided by the treating clinicians.
What This Means in Practice
Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort. 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. Adhering to the intended stent dwell time is emphasized to limit encrustation and related complications.
Key Considerations
- 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.
- All INVAMED urology devices are intended for use by trained clinicians under appropriate guidance and in accordance with the IFU.
- Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
How many procedures use INVAMED urology products?
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 usage figure.
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.
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
Adhering to the intended stent dwell time is emphasized to limit encrustation and related complications. INVAMED's UroFlow stents use polyurethane with optional phosphorylcholine surface treatment and hydrophilic options, features intended to support placement and the indwelling experience. 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. The use of such sets and devices is determined by the operating clinician according to the planned procedure. 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's Zebra Guidewire for Urological Procedures is offered to support these endourological access steps. 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
- Bionovus Percutaneous Nephrostomy Catheter (Pigtail): What Clinicians and Buyers Should Know
- Urology & Incontinence Management: A Complete Technical Guide
- What are the side effects of a kidney stent?
Important Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and technical information about medical device technologies. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation, and it does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Any decision about diagnosis or treatment should be made by a licensed clinician based on an individual assessment. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals in accordance with the applicable Instructions for Use (IFU) and local regulatory approvals. Product availability and indications vary by country.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.