Ureteric Stent Insertion & Removal, London
A ureteric stent is a thin, soft tube placed temporarily inside the ureter to keep it open and allow the kidney to drain. It can relieve a blockage and support healing, often before or after treatment for a kidney stone.
What is a ureteric stent?
A ureteric stent is a thin, flexible tube placed inside the ureter, which is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. It helps keep the ureter open so urine can drain freely from the kidney.
A stent may be used when a kidney stone or swelling is causing a blockage. It can relieve pressure in the kidney and support drainage while you are waiting for further treatment. It may also be placed after a procedure, such as ureteroscopy, to help the ureter heal.
The stent is inserted through the natural urinary tract, so there is no external incision. It is usually placed under anaesthetic and is intended to be temporary. Once it has done its job, it is removed during a short follow-up procedure.
While a stent is in place, some people notice bladder symptoms such as urgency, frequency, discomfort when passing urine or mild pain in the side. Your consultant will explain what to expect, how long the stent may need to remain in place and when it will be removed.
Keeping the kidney draining
A ureteric stent supports the urinary tract in three important ways.
Relieves blockage
The stent keeps the ureter open, allowing a blocked kidney to drain and helping relieve pressure caused by a stone or swelling.
Supports healing
After kidney stone treatment, a stent may help the ureter recover and reduce the chance of it narrowing during healing.
Placed without an incision
The stent is inserted through the urinary tract, with no external cut. It can be removed once it is no longer needed.
Who a ureteric stent may suit
A ureteric stent may be recommended for people who:
- Have a kidney stone blocking urine drainage
- Have pain or pressure caused by an obstructed kidney
- Are awaiting kidney stone treatment
- Are having or have had stone treatment, such as ureteroscopy
- Need the ureter supported while it heals
- Have been assessed as suitable by a consultant urologist
What to expect
- Why is it needed
Your consultant will explain why a ureteric stent has been recommended, what it is intended to achieve and how long it may need to remain in place. - Placement
The stent is positioned through the urethra and bladder into the ureter, usually under anaesthetic. No external incision is needed. - Removal
Once the stent has done its job, it is removed during a short procedure. Your consultant will explain what this involves and arrange the appropriate follow-up.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for ureteric stent placement in London?
Relieves blocked kidney pain
A stent can restore urine drainage when a stone or swelling is preventing the kidney from draining properly.
Supports healing after stone treatment
It may be used after a procedure to help the ureter heal and drain while swelling settles.
No external incision
The stent is placed through the natural urinary tract, without a cut to the outside of the body.
Temporary and planned removal
A ureteric stent is not intended to remain in place permanently. Your consultant will provide a clear plan for its removal.
From obstruction to recovery
Stenting is often part of a wider treatment plan.
Not every stone requires a stent. It is used when drainage needs to be restored quickly or when healing support is necessary after intervention.
Follow-up ensures the stent is removed at the appropriate time and kidney drainage remains normal.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a ureteric stent?
A stent may be used to relieve a blockage, help a kidney drain or support the ureter after stone treatment. Your consultant will explain the specific reason it has been recommended for you.
Will I feel the stent?
Some people notice bladder symptoms such as urgency, frequency or discomfort while the stent is in place. You may also feel discomfort in the bladder, kidney area or when passing urine. These symptoms usually settle after the stent is removed.
How long will the stent stay in?
A ureteric stent is temporary. The length of time it remains in place depends on why it was inserted and your recovery. Your consultant will explain the expected timing and arrange removal.
How is a ureteric stent removed?
Removal is usually a short, straightforward procedure. Your consultant will explain how it will be carried out and what to expect beforehand.
When should I seek urgent medical advice?
Seek urgent medical help if you develop severe pain, a high temperature, shivering, feel very unwell, cannot pass urine or have heavy bleeding. These symptoms may need prompt assessment.
Relief for a blocked kidney
If a kidney stone is blocking urine drainage, a ureteric stent may help relieve pressure and support the kidney while further treatment is arranged. Submit an enquiry or call our team in confidence.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
