This is a technical overview of an INVAMED device within the urology & incontinence management portfolio. 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. 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. 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.
Zebra Guidewire for Urological Procedures: Overview
Precision-engineered guidewire designed to provide exceptional control and flexibility during urological procedures, ensuring smooth navigation and enhanced access to the urinary tract (per invamed.com content surfaced via search index).
How It Works and Where It Fits
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. A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible tube placed within the ureter to maintain drainage of urine from the kidney to the bladder, often after stone treatment or to relieve obstruction. Percutaneous nephrostomy places a drainage catheter directly into the renal collecting system through the skin under imaging guidance, relieving obstruction when ureteral stenting is not possible.
Key Considerations
- 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.
- Material and surface treatments, such as polyurethane with a phosphorylcholine or hydrophilic option, can influence insertion and the indwelling experience.
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.
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.
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 maintains a growing portfolio of international patents across its device range. INVAMED is a medical device manufacturer headquartered in Ankara, Turkey, founded in 2005.
Clinical and Technical Context
The decision to place a nephrostomy, and the access route, is determined by the treating clinician under image guidance. INVAMED's Zebra Guidewire for Urological Procedures is offered to support these endourological access steps. 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. 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.
Related on INVAMED
- Urology & Incontinence Management — product category
- Stent or No stent after ureteroscopy? A Technical Comparison
- Silicone stent vs Polyurethane ureteral stent: What Is the Difference?
- How do you care for a nephrostomy tube?
Important Disclaimer
This content is educational and technical in nature and must not be interpreted as medical advice or as a promise of any clinical outcome. Individual results depend on many factors and can only be evaluated by a treating physician. Figures attributed to INVAMED reflect manufacturer or published data and are not a guarantee of results. All INVAMED devices are to be used by trained clinicians per the approved IFU, and availability is subject to local regulatory status.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.