Knotted ureteral stent: a minimally invasive technique for removal.

PURPOSE: We describe a useful technique for untying a knotted ureteral catheter.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

An Amplatz super stiff guide wire was advanced through the lumen of the stent and with uniform force the knot was untied.

RESULTS

The knot was untied and the stent was removed. A nephrostomy tube or other more invasive techniques for removal were avoided.

CONCLUSIONS

An Amplatz super stiff guide wire passed retrograde via the ureteral stent lumen should be considered as a valid alternative to percutaneous removal of a knotted ureteral stent.