Double-J stent placement with grasping forceps through ureteroscope working channel: a novel technique

Abstract

To report a new technique for the retrograde placement of a double-J stent with grasping forceps through the ureteroscope working channel. Materials and methods: In our technique, the ureteroscope is advanced to the renal pelvis or proximal location of the obstruction in the ureteral lumen; a double-J stent is then introduced into the ureteroscope working channel. The double-J stent is pushed forward until its proximal tip is seen; then the clamp over the distal tip of the pusher is opened and the guide-wire and pusher are removed from the channel, respectively. The grasping forceps is inserted into the working channel until it is touching the stent; the ureteroscope is removed from the ureter by pulling it over the stent and grasping forceps. Thus, the stent is placed in the ureteral lumen. Results: This technique was successful in 17 patients: 16 retrograde ureteroscopies for stone extraction and 1 retrograde ureteroscopy with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. No complications occurred during follow-up. Conclusion: Our simple technique may be safely used to place double-J stent in cases of ureteral obstruction. It may reduce procedure time and it avoids the potential complications of blind catheter placement.