Ureteric stent

A ureteric stent is a thin, flexible tube that can be placed inside the ureter to hold it open. The ureters are the tubes that carry urine (pee) from each kidney to the bladder. This type of stent is also sometimes called a ureteral stent or kidney stent.

The top end of the stent sits in the kidney. The lower end sits in your bladder. Both ends of the stent are curved. This helps hold it in position.

If it is not possible to put in a stent, you may have a tube put into your kidney (or kidneys) through the skin on your back. This is called a nephrostomy.

You may need ureteric stents if cancer blocks one or both ureters. If a ureter is blocked, urine (pee) cannot flow from the kidney to the bladder. This causes urine to build up in the kidney. When this happens, the kidney may slowly stop working.

If a blockage is not treated quickly it can make you feel very unwell. You may:

• have pain or discomfort in your back or side
• have a high temperature (fever)
• feel sick.

Your doctor may suggest an operation to put a stent into one or both ureters.

You will usually be able to go home the same day or the next day. Your doctor or nurse will give you advice about drinking plenty of fluids and any painkillers you may need.

They should also explain when the stent should be changed or removed. Ureteric stents can usually stay in for a number of months. Some can be left in for longer if needed.

The stent should let urine (pee) drain into the bladder and prevent damage to the kidney. But it also may cause side effects. The most common side effects are the following:

• Bladder symptoms – you may need to pass urine more often or more urgently. You may have small amounts of blood in your urine.
• Pain – you may have some pain or discomfort when you pass urine. Or feel pain in your lower back or groin. Pain may be worse after physical activity.
• Infection – you are more likely to get a urine infection. Symptoms include a high temperature, pain or difficulty passing urine, pain in your back or bladder, feeling unwell.

Drinking fluids can help prevent and may reduce side effects. Try to drink at least 2 litres (3½ pints) of fluids a day. Try to drink water instead of drinks that may irritate the bladder. These include:

• drinks containing caffeine, such as tea, coffee, drinking chocolate and cola
• alcohol
• fizzy drinks
• acidic drinks – for example, orange or grapefruit juice
• drinks with artificial sweeteners – for example, diet or ‘light’ drinks.

Always tell your doctor or nurse if you have these side effects. They can give you advice and treatment if needed.