This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. 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. 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. 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.
Tipless basket vs Traditional tipped basket: Key Differences
As the site FAQ notes, tipless stone extraction baskets are designed to allow safer engagement of a stone without a leading tip that could cause mucosal trauma. Traditional tipped baskets have a distal tip that some operators find useful for certain manipulations but which contacts the tissue beyond the stone. The two designs represent different trade-offs in engagement and mucosal contact within endourology. Basket choice is made by the operator according to the stone and the anatomy encountered.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
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. INVAMED's urology portfolio includes UroFlow Ureteral Stents, the Bionovus Percutaneous Nephrostomy Catheter and Nephrectomy Set, the Zebra Guidewire, and the FlexInject Flexible Injection Needle. UroFlow stents are described as polyurethane with optional phosphorylcholine surface treatment and hydrophilic options in a double-J configuration, with sizing provided in product documentation.
Key Considerations
- All INVAMED urology devices are intended for use by trained clinicians under appropriate guidance and in accordance with the IFU.
- Adhering to the intended stent dwell time is emphasized to limit encrustation and related complications.
- Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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
INVAMED states it maintains a growing portfolio of international patents across its device range. INVAMED operates a dedicated R&D center (INVAcenter) focused on minimally invasive device development.
Clinical and Technical Context
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. Baskets are used within a broader endourological approach that may also involve laser or other lithotripsy as determined by the urologist. Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience. 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.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- Comparing Double-J stent and Nephrostomy tube
- A Clinical Introduction to Stone Extraction Baskets
- Nephrectomy and Injection Devices Explained — A Technical Guide
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.