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Calcified ureteric stent

Case contributed by Martin Pike
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Recurrent urinary infections on a background of motor neuron disease. Stent had been inserted in mid-2014, removal attempted mid-2015. Prior removal had not been possible due to co-morbidity.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

Stent calcification shows as homogeneous density outside the stent wall. Clear calcification of the distal stent and less marked calcification of the proximal stent.  

Annotated image

Proximal stent calcification (arrows). 

Six months earlier

x-ray

An x-ray from 6 months earlier does not show stent calcification.

Thanks to Mr K Alexandrou, Consultant Urologist for information on this case.

Case Discussion

This patient has a ureteric stone and a number of renal pelvic stones. Ureteric stents can relieve a blocked ureter and may make subsequent lithotripsy more effective (more space around stone). 

Distal calcification is more common and can be easily removed during cystoscopy. Proximal calcification is more challenging as a stiff stent cannot pass down the ureter intact. Removal of the calcification by laser or even cutting of the stent are attempted before open removal. 

Reporting proximal stent calcification is important for urologists.

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