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Ureteral stent (pigtail)
A common procedure for ureteral stones is temporarily inserting a splint in the ureter. This is done with a ureteral stent (pigtail), which is introduced cystoscopically into the bladder from bottom to top.
Because this stent curls up at both ends to locally stabilise it, it is also referred to as a pigtail. After a pigtail is inserted, the ureter relaxes. Colics no longer occur. The flow of urine is also secured, which prevents the dangerous combination of infections and urinary obstruction. After the pigtail is inserted, endoscopic surgery by means of ureteroscopy can be better performed on the relaxed ureter.
A pigtail can be left in the body for up to six months, although the risk of clogging increases exponentially after three months. A pigtail insert is often a first measure in the case of ureteral stones.
Inevitable symptoms of a reclining pigtail are:
- Blood in urine
- Increase urination
- Kidney pain during urination