Ureteric Stent Insertion

A ureteric stent insertion is usually carried out under general anaesthesia, although you may have it under spinal anaesthetic, or sedation, depending on your overall health.

During the procedure, a thin telescope called a cystoscope is passed through the urethra (the tube you urinate through) and into the bladder. Once the opening of the ureter is found, your surgeon gently threads the stent up into the kidney through the cystoscope, so no incisions are needed.  An X-ray is used to check that the stent is in the correct position before the procedure is finished.

After the procedure, you’ll be able to recover from the anaesthetic in private, comfortable surroundings until you feel well enough to go home. If you’ve had a general anaesthetic you’ll need someone to collect you and you won’t be able to drive for 24 hours.

Before leaving you’ll be given advice on aftercare and how long the stent needs to stay in place.  This is usually a few weeks to a few months, although for some patents it may be a long-term option for kidney drainage. 

Your team will arrange a follow-up appointment to check on your recovery and plan when the stent can be safely removed.

A ureteric stent is generally safe, but some people may notice symptoms while it’s in place.

Common stent-related symptoms include:

• discomfort or pain in the bladder, kidney area, groin, or genitals

• mild stinging when passing urine

• small amounts of blood in the urine

• feeling the need to urinate more often or urgently

• the sensation of not fully emptying the bladder

These symptoms often worsen after physical activity or after urinating, but usually settle once the stent is removed.

Possible, but less common, complications include:

• stent infection

• stent encrustation (mineral build-up on the stent)

• stent blockage

• stent migration (movement out of position)

Your consultant will give you personalised instructions if there's any preparation needed before your procedure.  

Preparation may include:

• stopping food and drink for a set number of hours before the procedure

• adjusting, or temporarily stopping any blood-thinning medication

• having a urine test to rule out infection

• arranging for someone to take you home if you have a general anaesthetic

Recovery from ureteric stent insertion is usually quick. Most people feel back to normal within a few days, although mild stent-related symptoms may continue until the stent is removed. It’s normal to feel some discomfort in the lower tummy, back, or bladder region, especially when passing urine. Drinking plenty of water can help ease these symptoms and keep the urine clear.

You may notice small amounts of blood in the urine for a few days, especially after activity. This is normal and improves with rest and hydration.

You should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise or long periods of activity for a short time after the procedure, as these can worsen stent discomfort. Most people can return to work within a day or so, depending on their job and how they feel.

Your consultant will arrange follow-up care and explain how long the stent needs to stay in place based on your individual situation.

Stent removal is a quick, minor procedure that usually takes just a few minutes. It’s typically performed under local anaesthetic using a flexible cystoscope. In some cases, a thread is attached to the lower end of the stent and sits just outside the urethra so that your urologist can remove the stent by simply pulling the thread.

Please contact our Urology centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a ureteric stent insertion, you must be referred by either your GP or a urologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a Welbeck urologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.