The placement of a ureteral stent is a common and effective urological procedure to restore the flow of urine from the kidney when the ureter is blocked or compromised.  Ureteral stent placement  is typically performed to treat conditions such as kidney stones, tumors, or strictures that obstruct the ureter. The global ureteral catheters market, valued at USD 2.16 billion in 2025 and projected to grow to USD 3.34 billion by 2035, is a testament to the importance of this procedure and the devices it relies upon.

Ureteral stent placement is usually performed using a cystoscope, a thin tube with a camera, which is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. A guidewire is then passed up the ureter to the kidney, and the stent is advanced over the wire into position. The stent is typically a Double J stent, which has a curl at each end to hold it in place. The procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis and is considered minimally invasive. The stent allows urine to bypass the obstruction, relieving pain and preventing kidney damage. The stent can be left in place for a period of time, depending on the underlying condition.

The Clinical Rationale and Patient Care

The clinical rationale for ureteral stent placement is to relieve acute or chronic urinary obstruction and to protect renal function. Common indications include the management of obstructing kidney stones, the treatment of ureteral strictures, and the prevention of post-operative complications after urological surgery. Stents can also be used to facilitate the passage of stone fragments after lithotripsy. The procedure is generally safe and effective, but patients may experience some discomfort, urinary frequency, or urgency after stent placement. The stent is typically removed in a follow-up procedure, which may be performed in the clinic or under local anesthesia. Patient education and management are important to ensure a successful outcome and to minimize complications.

Future trends in stent technology

The future of ureteral stent placement is focused on improving patient comfort and reducing complications. The development of stents with softer materials and anti-reflux mechanisms is a key area of ​​innovation. The use of drug-eluting stents, which release medication to prevent encrustation and inflammation, is being explored. The development of biodegradable stents, which dissolve over time and eliminate the need for removal, is a significant advancement. As the field of urology continues to evolve, the procedure of  ureteral stent placement  will become even more refined and patient-friendly.