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
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. 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. 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.
Stent vs No stent after ureteroscopy: Key Differences
After ureteroscopy, the decision to place a stent or not is discussed in the literature and depends on factors such as the procedure performed and the ureter's condition. A stent can help maintain drainage and reduce the risk of obstruction from swelling, but it may be associated with stent-related discomfort. Omitting a stent avoids stent-related symptoms but is only appropriate in selected situations. Whether to place a stent is determined by the treating urologist based on the individual case.
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. Procurement teams should request kit contents and the relevant IFU for each device and confirm local regulatory registration, which varies by market. 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.
Key Considerations
- 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.
- 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.
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.
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.
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
Stent length, diameter (in French), and coating are selected by the urologist based on the patient's anatomy and indication. 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. 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.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- Mid-Urethral Slings (TOT/TVT) Explained — A Technical Guide
- Silicone stent vs Polyurethane ureteral stent: What Is the Difference?
- Can you live a normal life with a nephrostomy tube?
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.