Silicone or polyurethane ureteral stent: assessment of the intensity of stent-related symptoms

Abstract

Introduction. About 80% of patients with ureteral stents experience symptoms associated with them. We believe that the intensity of stent-assosiated symptoms (SAS) can be reduced by the replacement of the stent material with a less solid one. The aim of our research was to compare the intensity of the symptoms and signs as well as the safety of silicone and poly urethane ureteral stent.
 Materials and methods. The study included 70 patients who were divided into two groups. Group A included patients who were placed with polyurethane stents (Rsch, Teleflex). The experimental group B included patients who were placed with silicone stents (Cook Medical). Specialized questionnaires like pain Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Overactive Bladder Symptoms (OAB) questionnaires were used to study the patients for SAS severity 1 hour after the stent was placed, in the middle of the observation period and before the stent was removed or ureteroscopy was performed. In addition, each group was assessed for the effectiveness of the stent placement, the presence of hematuria, the number of unscheduled visits to the doctor and the degree of stent incrustation.
 Results. A total of 70 patients participated in the study, while the control group A included of 30 patients and experimental group B included 40 patients. Group B participants having silicone ureteral stents showed significantly lower average VAS values 2 weeks before stent removal and shortly before stent removal (p = 0.023 and p = 0.014 respectively). No other comparisons between the two groups were statistically significant.
 Conclusions. The obtained findings demonstrate that silicone ureter stents, unlike polyurethane ureter stents, cause less pain according to VAS two weeks before and during the stent removal procedure.