Double-J Stenting, also known as DJ Stent Surgery or Ureteral Stenting, is a common procedure in urology that relieves obstructions of the urinary system. This treatment is recommended for conditions such as kidney stones, ureteral obstructions, or post-surgical recovery.

What is Double-J Stenting Surgery

The Double-J Stent, so named because of its “J” shape on both ends, is an extremely thin and flexible tube that’s placed inside the Ureteric. It allows urine to flow continuously from the kidneys to the bladder.

Urologists perform Double-J Stent surgery to prevent complications after kidney stones, tumors or surgeries that affect the urinary system. These stents can be removed within a few months or weeks, depending on your condition.

Why Double-J Stenting is Done

1. Kidney Stone Obstruction
A DJ stent can be used to treat a kidney stone-caused urinary obstruction. The stones lodged in the urinary ureter may obstruct urine flow, causing severe pain, infection or kidney damage. A stent allows the urine to flow normally by bypassing the blockage.

2. Post-Surgical Healing
A DJ stent can be used after certain urological procedures such as ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy to reduce swelling of the ureter. The stent prevents scarring, and keeps urine flowing during the recovery period.

3. Ureteral Strictures
A ureteral stricture is a narrowing in the ureter caused by infection, prior surgery, or an injury. DJ stents are used to dilate the narrowed area and allow urine flow without resistance.

4. Tumors and External Pressure
Tumors in the pelvis or abdomen can compress and block the ureter. The DJ stents reduce this pressure, protecting kidney function.

5. Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis, or the backflow of urine into the kidneys can cause swelling and damage. Stenting is a way to relieve the obstruction and stop long-term kidney damage.

Double-J Stent placement procedure

Pre-Surgery Preparedness

Before DJ stenting surgery, your doctor may recommend:

To locate the blockage, use an ultrasound, CT scan or IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram).
Tests of blood and urine to rule out infection
If applicable, temporarily stop taking blood thinners.

The Surgery: What happens?

The procedure can be performed under spinal, local or general anesthesia.
The surgeon can access the bladder by using a cystoscope, a thin tube equipped with a camera.
The DJ stent can be inserted in the ureter with the J-shaped end of the stent in the kidney, and the other end in the bladder.
The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes. It is done as an outpatient surgery.

After-Surgery care

For a few weeks, you may feel mild discomfort or urinate frequently.

To flush out the kidneys, drink plenty of liquids.
After the procedure, avoid strenuous exercise for one week.

For initial discomfort caused by stents, painkillers or antispasmodic medications may be prescribed.

Possible side effects or complications

Double-J Stenting is an effective and safe procedure. However, some patients experience:

Urination is frequent
Burning sensation during urination
Blood in the urine
Mild abdominal or flank pain
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

These symptoms usually last only a short time. Report persistent pain, fever or cloudy urine to your urologist as soon as possible.

Double-J Stent Removing

The stent can be removed in a minor procedure performed outpatiently once the underlying problem has been treated or resolved. The procedure is usually performed using a cystoscope, and does not require any major anesthesia.

Removal is quick (5-10 minutes).
After removal, you may feel a burning sensation.
The majority of patients are able to resume normal activities in a single day.

Tips on Living with a Stent

Stay hydrated: This helps reduce irritation and flushes out bacteria.
Avoid vigorous or heavy exercise.
Do not skip doses of prescribed medications or antibiotics.
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, pain or signs of infection.

Do not miss follow-up appointments to remove stents.

Benefits of DJ Stenting

Urinary blockage relief is immediate
Back pressure can cause kidney damage.
Helps with healing after procedures such as lithotripsy and ureteroscopy
Effective for treating complications caused by tumors or strictures

The procedure is minimally invasive and can be performed in under an hour

Conclusion

The Double-J Stenting Surgery is a minimally-invasive and highly effective way to manage ureteral obstructions. It can also be used for post-surgical healing. This procedure not only allows uninterrupted urine flow, but also helps to protect kidney function and promotes faster recovery. While there may be discomfort when the stent’s in place, this is only temporary.

Rest assured that if you are experiencing symptoms of a blockage in your urinary system or your urologist has recommended DJ stenting, it is a safe and effective procedure. Follow your doctor’s instructions for proper post-operative care, including timely removal of the stent.