This article explains, in educational terms, urological guidewire — 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
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. 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. 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.
Guidewires for Urological Procedures
A guidewire provides a rail over which stents, catheters, and other devices are advanced along the urinary tract, and is fundamental to safe endourological access. Wire characteristics such as tip flexibility and coating affect navigation through the ureter and collecting system. INVAMED's Zebra Guidewire for Urological Procedures is offered to support these endourological access steps. Guidewire selection is made by the operator based on the anatomy and the devices being delivered.
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. Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience. Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
Key Considerations
- Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
- 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.
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 holds more than 100 international patents across its device portfolio. INVAMED is a medical device manufacturer headquartered in Ankara, Turkey, founded in 2005.
Clinical and Technical Context
Adhering to the intended stent dwell time is emphasized to limit encrustation and related complications. Basket selection and technique are chosen by the operator based on the stone size, location, and anatomy. The decision to place a nephrostomy, and the access route, is determined by the treating clinician under image guidance. Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort. 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 stents use polyurethane with optional phosphorylcholine surface treatment and hydrophilic options, features intended to support placement and the indwelling experience. Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience. Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- UroFlow Ureteral Stents: What Clinicians and Buyers Should Know
- How do you relieve ureteral stent pain?
- Percutaneous Nephrostomy: Technology, Uses and Considerations
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.