[Multiple stones in atypical heterotopic reservoir in a patient with renal transplant: endourologic resolution]

The Whiston Snare Technique for Loop Extraction of Stents (WHISTLES): A novel technique for the intraureteric assembly of a loop snare for the retrograde extraction of a migrated ureteric stent

Background:

While ureteric stent removal remains a frequently performed endourological procedure stent migration either proximally or distally can present the endourologist with a significant intraoperative dilemma. In cases where the stent is of large calibre or impacted into the mucosa of the ureter, retrieval may prove refractory to traditional approaches.

Objective:

To present a further novel procedure: The Whiston Snare Technique for Loop Extraction of Stents (WHISTLES) which allows for intraureteric assembly of a tightening loop through a ureteric catheter thus permitting safe retrieval of a migrated stent.

Methods:

We describe the procedure as it was performed and have recreated the steps in a laboratory environment. This demonstrates an adaptation of existing materials readily found in most urological theatres and is not a prototypical device.

Results:

The procedure was successfully performed to allow extraction of the migrated ureteric stent.

Conclusion:

WHISTLES is a reproducible method for the retrieval of migrated ureteric stents where traditional techniques have failed.

Level of evidence:

5