Forgotten Ureteral Stent Syndrome

AbstractUreteral stents are one of the most widely employed tools in urology and have been in use for more than four decades. Their indications have widened over the years, making the management of their complications an essential role in the urologist’s practice. In this regard, the “retained or forgotten ureteral stent” syndrome remains a challenge. This syndrome is defined as the group of signs and symptoms produced by a JJ stent that has not been removed 2 or more weeks after the end of its maximum life.Data on the frequency of forgotten ureteral stents vary widely between series, ranging from 3% to 51% of stents that are placed. The properties of urine and the presence of bacteria can promote catheter encrustation. This can result in a highly variable range of signs and symptoms. Patients may have no clinical presentation or may have severe urinary tract infections and/or renal failure.New biomaterials for stent manufacture and coatings should reduce the main complications associated with this syndrome are currently under development. New technologies aimed at planning and remembering stent removal or replacement could dramatically reduce the incidence of this syndrome.