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Wen KC, Li ZA, Liu JH, Zhang C, Zhang F, Li FQ. Recent developments in ureteral stent: Substrate material, coating polymer and technology, therapeutic function. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 238:113916. [PMID: 38636438 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.113916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
The ureteral stent is an effective treatment for clinical ureteral stricture following urological surgery, and the functional coating of the stent could effectively inhibit bacterial colonization and other complications. The present review provides an analysis and description of the materials used in ureteral stents and their coatings. Emphasis is placed on the technological advancements of functional coatings, taking into consideration the characteristics of these materials and the properties of their active substances. Furthermore, recent advances in enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of functional coatings are also reviewed. It is anticipated that this article will serve as a valuable reference providing insights for future research development on new drug-loaded ureteral stents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Chao Wen
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Department of Urology/Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200235, China
| | - Zheng-An Li
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Department of Urology/Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200235, China
| | - Ji-Heng Liu
- Department of Urology/Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200235, China
| | - Chuan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Urology/Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200235, China.
| | - Feng-Qian Li
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Department of Urology/Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200235, China.
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Reicherz A, Eltit F, Scotland K, Almutairi K, Bell R, Mojtahedzadeh B, Cox M, Chew B, Lange D. Indwelling stents cause severe inflammation and fibrosis of the ureter via urothelial-mesenchymal transition. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5492. [PMID: 37015949 PMCID: PMC10073185 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31885-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
To explore the pathways and mechanisms driving inflammation and fibrosis in stented ureters. In total, six healthy female pigs underwent cystoscopic unilateral ureteral stent insertion (6 Fr). After 14 days indwelling time, ureteral tissue was harvested in three pigs, while the remaining three pigs had their stents removed, and were recovered for 7 days. Three separate pigs served as controls. Tissue from stented and contralateral ureters was analysed histologically to evaluate tissue remodelling and classify the degree of inflammation and fibrosis, while genome, proteome and immunohistochemistry analysis was performed to assess changes at the transcriptional and translational levels. Finally, immunofluorescence was used to characterize the cell composition of the immune response and pathways involved in inflammation and fibrosis. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism and RStudio for Welch ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis and Dunnett's T3 multiple comparison test. Stents cause significant inflammation and fibrosis of ureters. Gene set enrichment analysis confirmed fibrotic changes and tissue proliferation and suggests that epithelial-mesenchymal transition is a driver of fibrosis. Moreover, IL-6/JAK/STAT and TNFα via NF-κB signalling might contribute to chronic inflammation promoting a profibrotic environment. Immunostaining confirmed epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the urothelium and NF-κB expression in ureters stented for 14 days. Tissue alterations do not fully recover after 7 days. Histological evaluation showed that contralateral, unstented ureters are affected by mild inflammation. Our study showed that stenting has a significant impact on the ureter. Chronic inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition are drivers of fibrosis, potentially impairing ureteral functionality in the long term. Furthermore, we observed mild inflammation in contralateral, unstented ureters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Reicherz
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The Stone Centre at Vancouver General Hospital, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
- Department of Urology, Marien Hospital Herne, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Hölkeskampring 40, 44625, Herne, Germany
| | - Felipe Eltit
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Kymora Scotland
- Department of Urology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Box 951738, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1738, USA
| | - Khaled Almutairi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The Stone Centre at Vancouver General Hospital, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, C9F7+GRX, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Abdul Aziz Medical City, C9F6+JRH, Jeddah, 22384, Saudi Arabia
| | - Robert Bell
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Bita Mojtahedzadeh
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Michael Cox
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Ben Chew
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The Stone Centre at Vancouver General Hospital, Jack Bell Research Centre, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Dirk Lange
- Department of Urologic Sciences, The Stone Centre at VGH, Jack Bell Research Centre, Room 550-3, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC, V6H 3Z6, Canada.
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Zheng S, Amado P, Obrist D, Burkhard F, Clavica F. An in vitro bladder model with physiological dynamics: Vesicoureteral reflux alters stent encrustation pattern. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1028325. [PMID: 36304894 PMCID: PMC9592728 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1028325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro models are indispensable to study the physio-mechanical characteristics of the urinary tract and to evaluate ureteral stent performances. Yet previous models mimicking the urinary bladder have been limited to static or complicated systems. In this study, we designed a simple in vitro bladder model to simulate the dynamics of filling and voiding. The physio-mechanical condition of the model was verified using a pressure-flow test with different bladder outlet obstruction levels, and a reflux test was performed to qualitatively demonstrate the stent associated vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Finally, the setup was applied with and without the bladder model to perform encrustation tests with artificial urine on commercially available double-J stents, and the volumes of luminal encrustations were quantified using micro-Computed Tomography and image segmentation. Our results suggest that, VUR is an important factor contributing to the dynamics in the upper urinary tract with indwelling stents, especially in patients with higher bladder outlet obstruction levels. The influence of VUR should be properly addressed in future in vitro studies and clinical analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Shaokai Zheng,
| | - Pedro Amado
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Obrist
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fiona Burkhard
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Clavica
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Ureteral stents are an invaluable tool for urologists but suffer from several drawbacks, including: limited durability due to stent encrustation, significant morbidity from bothersome urinary symptoms, pain and infection, risk of the forgotten stent and costly removal. This review highlights key advances in ureteral stent technology that seek to address these issues. RECENT FINDINGS Over the past 2 years clinical trials have brought ureteral stent technology aimed to reduce stent-associated morbidity closer to clinical application. Stent material and changes to stent design show promise in improving patient tolerability without increasing complications. Low-tech innovations such as magnetic and catheter snare removal may quickly reduce costs. Radical advances such as biodegradable stent materials remain in preclinical models but show promise for eliminating the need for stent removal. SUMMARY The ideal ureteral stent does not currently exist in clinical practice. This review highlights key studies that have advanced ureteral stent technology in the past 2 years.
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Kim KW, Park SH, Im G, Lee SB, Baba Y, Lee C, Choi YH, Kim HH. CFD study on vesicoureteral reflux in the urinary tract with double J stent. Comput Biol Med 2022; 145:105456. [DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.105456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Urinary Stent Development and Evaluation Models: In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo-A European Network of Multidisciplinary Research to Improve Urinary Stents (ENIUS) Initiative. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14091641. [PMID: 35566810 PMCID: PMC9102855 DOI: 10.3390/polym14091641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: When trying to modify urinary stents, certain pre-clinical steps have to be followed before clinical evaluation in humans. Usually, the process starts as an in silico assessment. The urinary tract is a highly complex, dynamic and variable environment, which makes a computer simulation closely reflecting physiological conditions extremely challenging. Therefore, the pre-clinical evaluation needs to go through further steps of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo assessments. Methods and materials: Within the European Network of Multidisciplinary Research to Improve Urinary Stents (ENIUS), the authors summarized and evaluated stent assessment models in silico, in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo. The topic and relevant sub-topics were researched in a systematic literature search in Embase, Scope, Web of Science and PubMed. Clinicaltrials.gov was consulted for ongoing trials. Articles were selected systematically according to guidelines with non-relevant, non-complete, and non-English or Spanish language articles excluded. Results: In the first part of this paper, we critically evaluate in vitro stent assessment models used over the last five decades, outlining briefly their strengths and weaknesses. In the second part, we provide a step-by-step guide on what to consider when setting up an ex vivo model for stent evaluation on the example of a biodegradable stent. Lastly, the third part lists and discusses the pros and cons of available animal models for urinary stent evaluation, this being the final step before human trials. Conclusions: We hope that this overview can provide a practical guide and a critical discussion of the experimental pre-clinical evaluation steps needed, which will help interested readers in choosing the right methodology from the start of a stent evaluation process once an in silico assessment has been completed. Only a transparent multidisciplinary approach using the correct methodology will lead to a successful clinical implementation of any new or modified stent.
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Lee J, Katz M, Shah O. Developments in Ureteral Stent Technology. Front Surg 2021; 8:764167. [PMID: 34869565 PMCID: PMC8637838 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2021.764167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ureteral stents have been utilized for decades in maintaining ureteral patency, most commonly after ureteroscopy in the treatment of urolithiasis. Since their initial development, ureteral stents have had many technological advances that have allowed for better patient outcomes with improvements in comfort, durability, patency, encrustation resistance, biocompatibility, ease of insertion, migration, and biofilm development. Several new ureteral stents enter the market every year, each with their own touted benefits. It is essential to understand the different advantages for each ureteral stent to provide the best available care to patients when possible. The purpose of this review is to give a brief history of ureteral stent development and summarize the recent developments in ureteral stent designs. We aim to review the data supporting the clinical advantages of the latest ureteral stents available for use by urologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Lee
- Department of Urology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Matthew Katz
- Department of Urology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ojas Shah
- Department of Urology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
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Domingues B, Pacheco M, Cruz JE, Carmagnola I, Teixeira‐Santos R, Laurenti M, Can F, Bohinc K, Moutinho F, Silva JM, Aroso IM, Lima E, Reis RL, Ciardelli G, Cauda V, Mergulhão FJ, Gálvez FS, Barros AA. Future Directions for Ureteral Stent Technology: From Bench to the Market. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202100158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Domingues
- 3B's Research Group‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Avepark‐Parque Barco Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
- ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
| | - Margarida Pacheco
- 3B's Research Group‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Avepark‐Parque Barco Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
- ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
| | - Julia E. Cruz
- Endourology‐Endoscopy Department Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Jesús Usón Cáceres 10071 Spain
| | - Irene Carmagnola
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Politecnico di Torino Turin 10129 Italy
- Polito BIOMedLAB Politecnico di Torino Turin 10129 Italy
| | - Rita Teixeira‐Santos
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering Environment Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering University of Porto Porto 4200‐465 Portugal
| | - Marco Laurenti
- Department of Applied Science and Technology Politecnico di Torino Turin 10129 Italy
| | - Fusun Can
- Department of Medical Microbiology School of Medicine Koc University Istanbul 34450 Turkey
| | - Klemen Bohinc
- Faculty of Health Sciences University of Ljubljana Ljubljana 1000 Slovenia
| | - Fabíola Moutinho
- i3S‐Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde Universidade do Porto Porto 4200‐135 Portugal
- INEB‐Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica Universidade do Porto Porto 4200‐135 Portugal
| | - Joana M. Silva
- 3B's Research Group‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Avepark‐Parque Barco Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
- ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
| | - Ivo M. Aroso
- 3B's Research Group‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Avepark‐Parque Barco Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
- ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
| | - Estêvão Lima
- School of Health Sciences Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS) University of Minho Braga 4710‐057 Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B's Research Group‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Avepark‐Parque Barco Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
- ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
| | - Gianluca Ciardelli
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Politecnico di Torino Turin 10129 Italy
- Polito BIOMedLAB Politecnico di Torino Turin 10129 Italy
| | - Valentina Cauda
- Department of Applied Science and Technology Politecnico di Torino Turin 10129 Italy
| | - Filipe J. Mergulhão
- LEPABE–Laboratory for Process Engineering Environment Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering University of Porto Porto 4200‐465 Portugal
| | - Federico S. Gálvez
- Endourology‐Endoscopy Department Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Jesús Usón Cáceres 10071 Spain
| | - Alexandre A. Barros
- 3B's Research Group‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and Biomimetics University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Avepark‐Parque Barco Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
- ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory Braga/Guimarães 4805‐017 Portugal
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Zheng S, Carugo D, Mosayyebi A, Turney B, Burkhard F, Lange D, Obrist D, Waters S, Clavica F. Fluid mechanical modeling of the upper urinary tract. WIREs Mech Dis 2021; 13:e1523. [PMID: 34730288 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The upper urinary tract (UUT) consists of kidneys and ureters, and is an integral part of the human urogenital system. Yet malfunctioning and complications of the UUT can happen at all stages of life, attributed to reasons such as congenital anomalies, urinary tract infections, urolithiasis and urothelial cancers, all of which require urological interventions and significantly compromise patients' quality of life. Therefore, many models have been developed to address the relevant scientific and clinical challenges of the UUT. Of all approaches, fluid mechanical modeling serves a pivotal role and various methods have been employed to develop physiologically meaningful models. In this article, we provide an overview on the historical evolution of fluid mechanical models of UUT that utilize theoretical, computational, and experimental approaches. Descriptions of the physiological functionality of each component are also given and the mechanical characterizations associated with the UUT are provided. As such, it is our aim to offer a brief summary of the current knowledge of the subject, and provide a comprehensive introduction for engineers, scientists, and clinicians who are interested in the field of fluid mechanical modeling of UUT. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Biomedical Engineering Infectious Diseases > Biomedical Engineering Reproductive System Diseases > Biomedical Engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dario Carugo
- Department of Pharmaceutics, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ali Mosayyebi
- Bioengineering Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Ben Turney
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Fiona Burkhard
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dirk Lange
- The Stone Centre at Vancouver General Hospital, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dominik Obrist
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Waters
- Oxford Centre for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Francesco Clavica
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Cui H, Zhang K, Gao C, Kang Y, Jiang H, He Y. Preparing and characterizing biodegradable materials for ureteral stents. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Haipo Cui
- Shanghai Institute for Minimally Invasive Therapy University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Shanghai China
| | - Kui Zhang
- Shanghai Institute for Minimally Invasive Therapy University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Shanghai China
| | - Chenguang Gao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Interventional Medical Devices & Equipment and Research & Engineering Academy of MicroPort Medical Group Co., Ltd Shanghai China
| | - Yahong Kang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Interventional Medical Devices & Equipment and Research & Engineering Academy of MicroPort Medical Group Co., Ltd Shanghai China
| | - Hongyan Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Interventional Medical Devices & Equipment and Research & Engineering Academy of MicroPort Medical Group Co., Ltd Shanghai China
| | - Yingrong He
- Shanghai Institute for Minimally Invasive Therapy University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Shanghai China
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Soria F, de La Cruz JE, Fernandez T, Budia A, Serrano Á, Sanchez-Margallo FM. Heparin coating in biodegradable ureteral stents does not decrease bacterial colonization-assessment in ureteral stricture endourological treatment in animal model. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:1700-1710. [PMID: 33968658 PMCID: PMC8100852 DOI: 10.21037/tau-21-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We assessed an antireflux biodegradable heparin-coated ureteral stent (BraidStent®-H) in an animal model comparative study after endoscopic treatment of ureteral strictures. Methods A total of 24 female pigs underwent initial endoscopic, nephrosonographic, and contrast fluoroscopy assessment of the urinary tract. Afterward, unilateral laparoscopic ureteral stricture model was performed. Three weeks later, the animals underwent laser endoureterotomy and were randomly assigned to Group-I, in which a double-pigtail stent was placed for 6 weeks, or Group-II, in which a BraidStent®-H was placed. Follow-up was carried out by ultrasonography, contrast fluoroscopy, ureteroscopy, urinalysis and bacteriuria assessment at 3, 6, 12 and 5 months. Finally, a pathological study of the urinary system was performed. Results There were no animals in Group-II with vesicoureteral reflux, with significance at 6 weeks with Group-I. Distal ureteral peristalsis was maintained in 50–75% in Group-II at 1–6 weeks. The 91.7% of stents in Group-II were degraded between 3–6 weeks, without obstructive fragments. Bacteriuria in Group II was 33.3–50% at 3 and 6 weeks. The global success rate by groups was 91.6% and 87.5% in groups I and II, respectively, with no statistical significance. Conclusions BraidStent®-H has been shown to be as efficacious as current ureteral stents in the treatment of benign ureteral strictures following laser endoureterotomy. In addition, it reduces the morbidity associated with current stents and has a homogeneous and predictable degradation rate of about 6 weeks, with no obstructive fragments. Future studies are required to improve the antibacterial coating to reduce BraidStent®-H contamination in view of the results obtained with the heparin coating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Soria
- Endourology Department, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Foundation, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Julia E de La Cruz
- Endourology Department, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Foundation, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Tomás Fernandez
- Urology Department, University Hospital Morales Meseguer, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alberto Budia
- Urology Department, University Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Álvaro Serrano
- Urology Department, University Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
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Soria F, de la Cruz JE, Budia A, Serrano A, Galan-Llopis JA, Sanchez-Margallo FM. Experimental Assessment of New Generation of Ureteral Stents: Biodegradable and Antireflux Properties. J Endourol 2021; 34:359-365. [PMID: 31931610 DOI: 10.1089/end.2019.0493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The aim was to assess a new biodegradable and antireflux intraureteral stent (BraidStent®) design in a swine model after ureteral laparoscopic operation. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 female pigs underwent initial endoscopic, nephrosonographic, and contrast fluoroscopy assessment of the urinary tract. Afterward, unilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction was performed by laparoscopic approach. Six weeks later, the animals underwent laparoscopic Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty, and were randomly assigned to Group-I, in which a double-pigtail ureteral stent was inserted for 6 weeks, or Group-II, in which a BraidStent®, a biodegradable intraureteral stent design, was placed. Follow-up assessments were performed at 3 and 6 weeks and 5 months. Results: In terms of therapeutic success, complete resolution was observed in 91.6% of Group-I animals and 88.8% in Group-II. No evidence of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) was observed in Group-II animals and statistical significance in VUR and ureteral orifice damage were observed between groups. BraidStent® degradation occurred in a controlled manner between 3 and 6 weeks, without obstructive fragments. Distal ureteral peristalsis was maintained in 66.6% and 83.3% in Group-II at 3 and 6 weeks of follow-up, respectively. In Group-II, the positive bacteriuria rate was 41.6% and the migration rate 25%. Pathological assessment showed a significant improvement in ureteral healing in Group-II vs Group-I. Conclusions: The results of this comparative study in a porcine model indicate that the intraureteral BraidStent performed similarly to conventional ureteral stents. It avoids complete ureteral length intubation, the adverse effects associated with conventional ureteral stents, and maintains a high level of distal ureteral peristalsis. Moreover, the BraidStent® exhibited a predictable and controlled degradation rate and did not cause any obstructive fragments. However, further studies are needed to improve the anchoring system and reduce the risk of bacterial colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Soria
- Endourology-Endoscopy Department, Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Jesús Usón, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Julia E de la Cruz
- Endourology-Endoscopy Department, Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Jesús Usón, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Alberto Budia
- Department of Urology, University Hospital La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alvaro Serrano
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
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Hamada T, Nakai Y, Isayama H, Koike K. Antireflux metal stent for biliary obstruction: Any benefits? Dig Endosc 2021; 33:310-320. [PMID: 32250476 DOI: 10.1111/den.13679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with stent placement has been utilized as standard palliative management of distal malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). Compared to plastic stents, metal stents can provide longer-term relief of symptoms. When a large-bore metal stent is placed across the ampulla, patients are predisposed to the risk of cholangitis or stent dysfunction due to reflux of duodenal contents. To mitigate the risk of adverse events associated with the duodenobiliary reflux, efforts have been directed to development of antireflux metal stents (ARMSs). The antireflux property has been introduced through adding of an antireflux valve to the duodenal stent end. Evidence from clinical studies indicates that ARMSs may not only reduce the risk of ascending cholangitis during follow-up but also prolong stent patency time. However, the results of clinical studies testing ARMSs are inconsistent owing to heterogeneous designs of antireflux valves and stent bodies. Metal stents are increasingly indicated for benign biliary strictures and MBO in the setting of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and therefore, research is warranted to evaluate ARMSs for those indications. Given that endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided transmural biliary drainage has gained popularity, the optimal timing of placing an ARMS in relation to EUS-guided and percutaneous drainage should be investigated. Development and evaluation of ARMSs require an integrative approach utilizing phantom and animal models, measurements of stent mechanical properties, and in vivo functional study after stent placement. In this review article, we summarize updated evidence on ARMSs for MBO and discuss issues that should be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Hamada
- Departments of, Department of, Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yousuke Nakai
- Departments of, Department of, Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of, Endoscopy and Endoscopic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Isayama
- Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Koike
- Departments of, Department of, Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Soria F, de La Cruz JE, Caballero-Romeu JP, Pamplona M, Pérez-Fentes D, Resel-Folskerma L, Sanchez-Margallo FM. Comparative assessment of biodegradable-antireflux heparine coated ureteral stent: animal model study. BMC Urol 2021; 21:32. [PMID: 33639905 PMCID: PMC7916282 DOI: 10.1186/s12894-021-00802-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Double J ureteral stents are widely used on urological patients to provide drainage of the upper urinary tract. Unfourtunately, ureteral stents are not free from complications, as bacterial colonization and require a second procedure for removal. The purpose of the current comparative experimental study is to evaluate a new heparin-coated biodegradable antireflux ureteral stent (BraidStent®-H) to prevent urinary bacterial colonization. METHODS A total of 24 female pigs were underwent determination of bacteriuria and nephrosonographic, endoscopic and contrast fluoroscopy assessment of the urinary tract. Afterward, were randomly assigned animals to Group-I, in which a 5Fr double-pigtail ureteral stent was placed for 6 weeks, or Group-II, in which a BraidStent®-H was placed. Follow-up assessments were performed at 1, 3, 6, 8, 12 weeks. The final follow-up includes the above methods and an exhaustive pathological study of the urinary tract was accomplished after 20 weeks. RESULTS Bacteriuria findings in the first 48 h were significant between groups at 6 h and 12 h. Asymptomatic bacteriuria does not reach 100% of the animals in Group-II until 48 h versus Group-I where it appears at 6 h. The weekly bacteriuria mean rate was 27.7% and 44.4% in Group I and II respectively, without statistical significance. In Group II there were no animals with vesicoureteral reflux, with statistical significance at 3 and 6 weeks with Group-I. The 91.2% of stents in Group-II were degraded between 3 and 6 weeks, without obstructive fragments. Distal ureteral peristalsis was maintained in 66.6-75% in Group-II at 1-6 weeks. CONCLUSIONS The heparin coating of BraidStent® allows an early decrease of bacterial colonization, but its effectiveness is low at the long term. Heparin coating did not affect scheduled degradation rate or size of stents fragments. BraidStent®-H avoids the side effects associated with current ureteral stents, thus should cause less discomfort to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Soria
- Endoscopy-Endourology Department, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Foundation, Carretera N-521, Km. 41.8, C.P.10071, Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Julia E de La Cruz
- Endoscopy-Endourology Department, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre Foundation, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Juan Pablo Caballero-Romeu
- Urology Department, Alicante University General Hospital, Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL Foundation), Alicante, Spain
| | - Manuel Pamplona
- Urology Department, 12 de Octubre University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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In vivo assessment of biodegradable magnesium alloy ureteral stents in a pig model. Acta Biomater 2020; 116:415-425. [PMID: 32949824 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Today, ureteral stent technology is making progress towards the reduction of complications and patient discomfort. Therefore, magnesium alloys have become excellent candidate materials for manufacturing ureteral stents due to their biodegradability and antibacterial activity. Built on our previous work on biodegradable magnesium alloys, this article reports a semisolid rheo-formed magnesium implant that displays degradability and biocompatibility in vivo, and feasibility as ureteral stents in a pig model. Refined non-dendritic microstructure was observed in the rheo-formed alloy, whose grain size and shape factor were ca. 25.2 μm and ca. 1.56 respectively. Neither post-interventional inflammation nor pathological changes were observed in the urinary system during the implantation period of 14 weeks, and the degradation profile (14 weeks) meets the common requirement for the indwelling time of ureteral stents (8 to 16 weeks). Furthermore, histopathological observation and urinalysis results confirmed that the alloy had significantly higher antibacterial activity than the medical-grade stainless steel control. To our knowledge, this is the first in vivo study of biodegradable magnesium alloy as urinary implants in large animal models. Our results demonstrate that magnesium alloys may be a reasonable option for manufacturing biodegradable ureteral stents.
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16
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Ramachandra M, Mosayyebi A, Carugo D, Somani BK. Strategies to Improve Patient Outcomes and QOL: Current Complications of the Design and Placements of Ureteric Stents. Res Rep Urol 2020; 12:303-314. [PMID: 32802807 PMCID: PMC7403435 DOI: 10.2147/rru.s233981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ureteric stents have played a vital role in relieving urinary obstruction in many urological conditions. Although they are extremely successful, stents have been associated with complications and reduced patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). There are many factors that may affect the quality and longevity of stents. In this review, we have highlighted the journey and innovation of ureteric stents through the modern day. A literature review was conducted to identify relevant articles over the last 20 years. There is a plethora of evidence with various indications for the use of ureteral stents and how they affect QoL. There is still ongoing research to develop the ideal stent with reduced encrustation, one that resists infection and is also comfortable for the patients. Stents made from metal alloys, polymers and biodegradable materials have unique properties in their own right but also have certain deficiencies. These have been discussed along with an overview of newly developed stents. Certain pharmacological adjuncts have also been highlighted that may be useful to improve patient's tolerance to stents. In summary, this paper describes the features of the different types of stents and the problems that are frequently encountered, including effect on patients' HRQoL and financial burden to healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghana Ramachandra
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Ali Mosayyebi
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences (IfLS), University of Southampton, UK
| | - Dario Carugo
- Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences (IfLS), University of Southampton, UK
| | - Bhaskar K Somani
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
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17
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Chalhoub M, Kohaut J, Vinit N, Botto N, Aigrain Y, Héloury Y, Lottmann H, Blanc T. Feasibility and safety of magnetic-end double-J ureteral stent insertion and removal in children. World J Urol 2020; 39:1649-1655. [PMID: 32623499 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-020-03339-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The need for surgical removal of a double-J ureteral stent (DJUS) is considered one of its disadvantages. Apart from increased cost, repeated exposure to general anesthesia is a concern in children. Alternative techniques have been described, all failing to become integrated into mainstream practice. Stents with a distal magnetic end, although introduced in the early 1980s, have only recently gained acceptance. We report the feasibility and safety of insertion and removal of a magnetic-end double-J ureteral stent (MEDJUS) in a pediatric population. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the use of the Magnetic Black-Star Urotech® MEDJUS between 11/2016 and 12/2019 in children. Stents were removed in the outpatient clinic using a transurethral catheter with a magnetic tip. RESULTS MEDJUS insertion was attempted in 100 patients (65 boys). Mean age was 7.8 years (0.5-18). The stent was placed in an antegrade procedure (n = 47), by a retrograde route (n = 10), and during open surgery (n = 43). Stent insertion was successful in 84 cases (84%). All 16 failures occurred during the antegrade approach in laparoscopic pyeloplasty, with inability to push the stent and its magnet through the ureterovesical junction in 14. Magnetic removal was attempted in 83 patients, successful in 81 (98%). There was no added morbidity with the MEDJUS. CONCLUSIONS The use of MEDJUS is a safe and effective strategy that obviates the need for additional general anesthesia in children. Its insertion is similar to that with regular DJUS, and its easy and less time-consuming removal benefits both the patient and the hospital and validates its clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Chalhoub
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Jules Kohaut
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Vinit
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Botto
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Yves Aigrain
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Yves Héloury
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Henri Lottmann
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Blanc
- Service de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologie Pédiatriques, APHP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France. .,Université de Paris, Paris, France. .,Département Croissance et Signalisation, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, INSERM U1151-CNRS UMR 8253, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France.
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18
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19
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De Grazia A, Somani BK, Soria F, Carugo D, Mosayyebi A. Latest advancements in ureteral stent technology. Transl Androl Urol 2019; 8:S436-S441. [PMID: 31656749 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2019.08.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Urological diseases such as tumours, kidney stones, or strictures in the ureter can lead to a number of health consequences, including life-threatening complications. Ureteral stents have been widely used as a valid solution to restore compromised urological function. Despite their clinical success, stents are subject to failure due to encrustation and biofilm formation, potentially leading to urinary tract infection. The current review focuses on recent advancements in ureteral stent technology, which have been reported in recent scientific journals or patents. Web of Science and Google Scholar have been used as a search engine to perform this review, using the keywords "Ureteral + Stent + Design", "Ureteral + Stent + Material + Coating", "Ureteric + Stent" and "Ureteral + Stent". A significant proportion of technological developments has focused on innovating the stent design to overcome migration and urinary reflux, as well as investigating novel materials and coatings to prevent biofilm formation, such as poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide) (PDMMA) and swellable polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA). Biodegradable ureteral stents (BUS) have also emerged as a new generation of endourological devices, overcoming the "forgotten stent syndrome" and reducing healthcare costs. Moreover, efforts have been made to develop pre-clinical test methods, both experimental and computational, which could be employed as a screening platform to inform the design of novel stent technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio De Grazia
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences (IfLS), University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Bhaskar K Somani
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Federico Soria
- Department of Endoscopy-Endourology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre-Jesus Usón, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Dario Carugo
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences (IfLS), University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Ali Mosayyebi
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences (IfLS), University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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21
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22
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Wang L, Yang G, Xie H, Chen F. Prospects for the research and application of biodegradable ureteral stents: from bench to bedside. JOURNAL OF BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE-POLYMER EDITION 2018; 29:1657-1666. [PMID: 30141744 DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2018.1498184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ureteral stents are commonly used in urological practices but are frequently associated with patient discomfort, encrustation and stent-related infection. And a second procedure is needed to remove the stent. New biomaterials and designs have been attempted to solve these problems. The development of biodegradable ureteral stent shows promising prospects in future clinical applications. This article reviews the biomaterials and preparation methods commonly used in the present study of biodegradable ureteral stents. To date, none of the technological developments has lead to the 'ideal' biodegradable ureteral stent, but much progress has been made in the stent design by improving the physical characteristics and biocompatibility of the biomaterials. The controllability of degradation, the biggest problem faced currently, still needs to be further improved. In the future, the nanotechnology and chemical modification of biomaterials may be able to further optimize the properties of degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- a Department of Urology , Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Ganggang Yang
- a Department of Urology , Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Hua Xie
- a Department of Urology , Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
| | - Fang Chen
- a Department of Urology , Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China
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