[Ureteral stents].

Due to the increasing clinical importance of ureteral stents, the advantages and disadvantages of the different materials used are described and discussed. The spectrum of indications includes palliative, curative and auxiliary uses of ureteral stents. In spite of the low complication rate, the advisability of clinical application of stents should always be critically considered before the final decision is made. The possibility of treating the basic disease should be considered in each patient, to lessen the likelihood of "permanent stent patients".