Use of self-expanding permanent endoluminal stents for benign ureteral strictures: mid-term results.

Abstract

Benign ureteral strictures constitute a therapeutic dilemma, especially in patients unable to undergo an open operative procedure. We report on 13 patients with benign ureteral strictures treated with endoscopic implantation of self-expanding permanent endoluminal stents. Endoscopic implantation was done using the Wallstent in 4 patients, the Memotherm stent in 5 and the Sinus stent in 4. The technique of implantation followed the standardized procedure that we described in 1995. Mean followup was 41.6 months. Primary patency (ureters patent since implantation) was achieved in 7 patients and assisted patency (additional intervention) was noted in 5. In 1 case the kidney had to be removed because of progressive malfunction. Implantation of self-expanding permanent endoluminal stents for benign ureteral strictures is safe, effective and minimally invasive in select cases. Additional studies and long-term results are needed to make definitive conclusions about this method.