This article explains, in educational terms, mid-urethral sling — 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
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. Device selection across drainage, stone, and incontinence applications is determined by the treating urologist based on the anatomy, indication, and patient factors. 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.
Mid-Urethral Slings (TOT/TVT)
Mid-urethral slings are used to treat stress urinary incontinence by providing support beneath the mid-urethra, and are described in trans-obturator (TOT) and retropubic (TVT) approaches. The two routes differ in the path the tape takes, and the choice reflects anatomy and clinical considerations weighed by the surgeon. This category sits within the incontinence portion of the urology portfolio alongside drainage and stone devices. Whether a sling is appropriate, and which approach is used, is determined by the treating clinician.
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. Adhering to the intended stent dwell time is emphasized to limit encrustation and related complications. Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
Key Considerations
- Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort.
- Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
- 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
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
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
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 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. INVAMED offers the Bionovus Nephrectomy Set and the FlexInject Flexible Injection Needle within its urology portfolio.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- How is a double-J stent removed?
- Understanding Guidewires for Urological Procedures
- Nephrectomy and Injection Devices Explained — A Technical Guide
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.