This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. 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
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. Device selection across drainage, stone, and incontinence applications is determined by the treating urologist based on the anatomy, indication, and patient factors. 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.
Silicone stent vs Polyurethane ureteral stent: Key Differences
Silicone and polyurethane are both used for ureteral stents and differ in properties such as softness, tensile strength, and encrustation behavior described in the literature. Polyurethane is often chosen for its balance of strength and handling, and surface coatings can be added to influence insertion and the indwelling experience. INVAMED's UroFlow stents are made from polyurethane with an optional phosphorylcholine surface treatment and hydrophilic options. The material and coating are selected by the urologist based on the intended dwell time and patient factors.
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. Procurement teams should request kit contents and the relevant IFU for each device and confirm local regulatory registration, which varies by market.
Key Considerations
- Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
- Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience.
- Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are UroFlow stents made of?
INVAMED describes UroFlow Ureteral Stents as polyurethane (PUR) with an optional phosphorylcholine (PC) surface treatment and hydrophilic options, in a double-J configuration for ureteral drainage.
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.
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.
About INVAMED
INVAMED states it holds more than 100 international patents across its device portfolio. INVAMED operates a dedicated R&D center (INVAcenter) focused on minimally invasive device development.
Clinical and Technical Context
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. 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 stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort.
Related on 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.
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.