A simple nonmetal stent for treatment of urethral strictures: a preliminary report.

Abstract

A polyurethane temporary stent has been designed for urethral strictures in patients who are unfit or unwilling to undergo surgery. The stent resembles a Malecot catheter and is inserted easily through the urethrotome sheath immediately after urethrotomy. The stent was used in 22 patients with recurrent urethral strictures and was left in the urethra for 3 to 24 months. Mean followup was 11.2 months. All patients were treated successfully and had improved urine flow rates (maximum 15 to 21 ml. per second). In no patient was the stent obstructed by incrustation for up to 2 years. This simple stent may offer effective treatment for many urethral strictures.