Use of a segmental thermoexpandable metal alloy stent in the management of malignant ureteric obstruction: a single centre experience in the UK.

INTRODUCTION

The Memokath 051™ is a semipermanent inert metal alloy ureteric stent which can bridge strictures and, compared to double J stents, causes less bladder irritation and pain, is more resistant to external compression forces and may be more effective in patients with malignant ureteric obstruction. We present our experience with this novel stent in such cases.

METHODS

All suitable patients referred to us with malignancy-associated ureteric strictures over a 4-year period had ureteric Memokath 051™ stents inserted. Data on aetiology and position of the strictures as well as length of the Memokath stents used and their efficacy and complications were recorded prospectively.

RESULTS

42 ureteric Memokath 051™ stents were inserted in 37 patients (mean age 64 years). 40.5% of strictures were related to gynaecological cancer, 21% to bowel cancer, 14% were post radiation, 14% occurred in prostate cancer patients and 9.5% were found in other cancers. The mean follow-up was 22 months (range 5-60 months). The main complications were stent migrations in 5, urinary tract infections in 3 and blockage of stent due to progressive transitional cell carcinoma of the ureter in 2 cases.

CONCLUSION

Memokath 051™ ureteric stents are safe, effective and durable in the long-term treatment of malignant strictures.