Below is an educational, technical answer to a question many patients and clinicians ask. 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. 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.
How do you relieve ureteral stent pain?
Stent-related discomfort is commonly reported, and general measures such as hydration and clinician-directed medication are often discussed in the literature. Stent design, position, and material can influence symptoms, which is why device and sizing selection are individualized. Symptoms that are severe or persistent should prompt review by the treating clinician. This content is educational only, and any management of stent discomfort should be guided by a clinician.
What This Means in Practice
Adhering to the intended stent dwell time is emphasized to limit encrustation and related complications. All INVAMED urology devices are intended for use by trained clinicians under appropriate guidance and in accordance with the IFU. Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience.
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.
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tipless stone basket?
Per the site FAQ, a stone extraction basket is a wire-mesh device deployed through a ureteroscope, and tipless designs are intended to allow safer engagement of a stone without mucosal trauma.
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.
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 is a medical device manufacturer headquartered in Ankara, Turkey, founded in 2005. INVAMED operates a dedicated R&D center (INVAcenter) focused on minimally invasive device development.
Clinical and Technical Context
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. Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes. 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.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- How is a double-J stent removed?
- Sourcing Urology & Incontinence Management Devices: A Manufacturer and Procurement Guide
- UroFlow Ureteral Stents: What Clinicians and Buyers Should Know
Important Disclaimer
The information here is provided for educational purposes and to describe device technology; it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a licensed healthcare provider can determine whether a given procedure or device is appropriate for a specific patient. INVAMED products are restricted to use by qualified professionals following the official IFU. Regulatory clearance and labeling differ between regions, and not all products or indications are available in every market.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.