Below is an educational, technical answer to a question many patients and clinicians ask. 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. 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. 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.
Why does a stent hurt when I pee?
Discomfort during urination with a ureteral stent in place is commonly attributed in the literature to the bladder end of the stent irritating the bladder wall, especially during voiding. Reflux of urine along the stent during voiding can also contribute to flank sensation in some patients. Stent design and position influence these symptoms, which is why sizing and placement are individualized. Persistent or severe symptoms should be discussed with the treating clinician, and this content is educational only.
What This Means in Practice
Manufacturer figures such as the reported over-15,000-procedures-annually usage statistic describe activity rather than guaranteed individual outcomes. Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort. 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
Baskets are used within a broader endourological approach that may also involve laser or other lithotripsy as determined by the urologist. 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. INVAMED's Bionovus Percutaneous Nephrostomy Catheter uses a pigtail retention design for percutaneous renal drainage. Ureteral stent length and diameter (in French) are matched to the patient's anatomy to support drainage and reduce discomfort.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- Silicone stent vs Polyurethane ureteral stent: What Is the Difference?
- Can you live a normal life with a nephrostomy tube?
- Bionovus Nephrectomy Set: 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.