Trans-urethral snare stent removal: a novel, self-constructed innovation for simultaneous ureteral stent removal and safety guidewire insertion

Abstract

Background: Ureteral stent insertion and subsequent removal remains one of the most common procedures performed in endourology. We aimed to evaluate a novel, one-step method, permitting simultaneous stent removal and guidewire passage using a self-constructed suture snare via standard cystoscopy. This method should be used prior to ureteroscopy, in cases of minimal stent encrustation and peri-ureteral mucosal oedema, where identification and subsequent cannulation of the ureteral orifice may be a challenge. Methods: A self-constructed suture snare is constructed using an open-ended ureteral catheter to facilitate this novel ‘Switch’ technique. Operative duration, cost feasibility and potenti..