Background: Encrustion of ureteral stents is a well-known phenomenon which
can be treated easily if recognized promptly. Severe encrustation, however,
which leads to renal impairment, presents a challenge in management,
Patients and Methods: Four patients with encrusted stents were referred to
our institution for management, All had impaired function of the affected k
idney. Each was managed by either retrograde ureteroscopy or a combination
of percutaneous and ureteroscopic procedures.
Results: All four of the patients were rendered stone free following an ave
rage of 2.5 (range 1-3) procedures. Renal function improved in all patients
postoperatively,
Conclusions: Encrustation is a potentially serious complication of the use
of ureteral stents, as it can lead to renal impairment, Timely endourologic
intervention can result in recovery of renal function.