LONG-TERM OUTCOME OF PERMANENT URETHRAL STENTS IN THE TREATMENT OF DETRUSOR-SPHINCTER DYSSYNERGIA

Objectives To evaluate the long-term efficacy of a permanently implant ed urethral stent in the treatment of spinally injured patients with d etrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. Patients and methods Twelve patients un derwent external sphincter stenting in our institution between 1988 an d 1990. They were reviewed at least annually and investigated with ser ial urodynamic and ultrasonographic. studies. Results Ten patients wer e followed for at least 5 years. Two patients required stent removal a nd five patients developed bladder neck obstruction requiring surgical intervention There were no problems with stent migration, ulceration or infection. Conclusion Stenting is an effective alternative to sphin cterotomy in the long-term, although secondary bladder neck obstructio n is a frequent problem.