Initial Experience in the Use of Novel Auto-expandable Metal Ureteral Stent in the Treatment of Ureter Stenosis in Kidney Transplanted Patients.

INTRODUCTION: Ureter stenosis in renal transplantation patients is a relatively frequent complication that negatively conditions graft evolution. The use of ureteral stents is a valid treatment alternative to the use of double-J catheters in patients for whom surgery is not contemplated or after surgical recurrence. We present our initial experience with five patients treated using this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We describe a total of five patients with ureteral stenosis after renal transplantation who were treated using ureteral stent model UVENTA (Taewoong Medical, Seoul, Korea) in our center. The median follow-up was 18 months (range, 4 to 38 months). We describe the clinical history of patients and previous treatments on ureteral stenosis. The technical procedure of placement is described. The clinical course is analyzed by measurement of renal function and imaging tests, as well as post-stent complications. Survival of the renal graft is evaluated.

RESULTS: The procedure could be completed in all patients without complications. The technique was effective in all patients, with correction of creatinine value and hydronephrosis during the renal ultrasound test. One patient suffered a urinary tract infection episode associated with the use of the ureteral stent. One patient suffered the loss of the renal graft secondary to the development of cryoglobulins. One hundred percent of the ureteral stents are functioning as of the writing of this article.

CONCLUSIONS: In renal transplantation patients with ureter stenosis, metallic stents are a useful technique with low morbidity and associated complications.