Transurethral guidewire loop for manipulation and extraction of stent: A novel, innovative, video-endoscopic technique in ureteral stent removal

Abstract

Background Ureteral stent removal is one of the most common procedures performed in urology. Herein, we describe a novel technique for stent removal using TransUrethral Guidewire loop for Manipulation and Extraction of stents (TUG-ME) method. We aimed to evaluate the role, feasibility, cost, operative time, and complications of the method. A review of the literature outlining the innovations in ureteral stent removal was also performed. Materials and methods Cystoscopic stent removal was performed using TUG-ME in all sequential cases. Variables including sex, age, stent type, duration, reason for stent insertion, type of anesthesia (general/local), cystoscopic stent removal time, and documentation of postprocedural complications were tabulated. In addition, using the search term “novel innovation in ureteral stent removal,” various databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, and Web of Science) were searched. Results TUG-ME was successfully performed in all patients assessed on the first attempt. The patients comprised both sexes. The procedure was well tolerated under local anesthesia (4 of 5 cases), whereas general anesthesia was used in 1 case as the patient was booked for subsequent ureteroscopy under the same anesthetic. The procedure time was <27 seconds in all the cases assessed. No significant complications were noted. Fifteen studies involving novel innovations were included in the critical appraisal. Conclusions TUG-ME is a simple, cost-effective, and innovative alternative for removing ureteral stents. It may be easily applied instead of a conventional ureteral stent grasper. Published innovative trends in ureteral stent removal have evolved over time, including advancements in stent design, retrieval devices, and the use of fluoroscope-free and cystoscope-free techniques.