A ureteral stent is a small, flexible tube temporarily placed inside the body to help urine flow from the kidney to the bladder. This device is commonly used to bypass an obstruction, such as a kidney stone, or to aid healing following a surgical procedure. The presence of this internal device requires careful attention to personal hygiene and infection prevention, particularly concerning exposure to water. Understanding the nature of the stent and associated risks is important for a smooth recovery.
Understanding the Ureteral Stent
The ureteral stent is a thin tube, typically made of plastic or silicone, placed within the ureter, the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder. One end coils securely in the kidney, and the other rests inside the bladder, remaining completely internal in most cases. The primary function is to ensure continuous drainage of urine, preventing pressure buildup in the kidney that can cause pain and damage. Stent placement provides a stable channel for urine flow when the ureter has been narrowed or blocked, allowing the ureter to heal or permitting stone fragments to pass.
The stent creates an open passage between the kidney (a sterile environment) and the bladder (naturally exposed to bacteria). The constant presence of this foreign body connecting these two areas is a factor in post-procedure care. The duration a stent remains in place varies widely, from a few days to several months, depending on the specific medical need.
Immersion Risks and Guidelines
Full water immersion activities, such as taking a bath, sitting in a hot tub, or swimming, are generally advised against while a ureteral stent is in place. The main concern is the increased potential for retrograde infection, where bacteria travel up the urethra and into the bladder. Stagnant water in a bathtub or the shared water of a hot tub or public pool can harbor high concentrations of microorganisms.
The stent offers a pathway for bacteria to colonize the device, known as stent colonization. Once bacteria adhere to the stent material, they can be difficult to eliminate and may travel upward into the kidney. This movement can lead to a serious kidney infection, called pyelonephritis. Medical guidance recommends avoiding any activity that involves submerging the genital area in water for an extended period.
Maintaining Hygiene with a Stent
Since full immersion is restricted, showering remains the safest and most recommended method for personal hygiene with a ureteral stent. A quick shower is preferable to minimize the time the periurethral area is exposed to water and moisture. Patients should use mild soap and clean water to gently wash the genital area, ensuring thorough cleansing to minimize the bacterial load.
After showering, carefully pat the entire area dry with a clean towel rather than rubbing, which can cause irritation. If the stent has a string attached for later removal, special care must be taken around the urethral opening to avoid snagging or tugging the string. Female patients with a removal string should also pat the area dry after urination to prevent contamination. Maintaining a clean and dry environment around the urethra is an effective daily step in preventing infection.
Recognizing Stent-Related Complications
While some discomfort is expected with a ureteral stent, certain symptoms indicate a potential complication requiring prompt medical attention. A persistent fever (over 101 degrees Fahrenheit) or the onset of chills can signal a developing urinary tract or kidney infection. Increased pain not relieved by medication, especially severe pain in the flank or groin area, should also be reported.
Changes in urine appearance, such as cloudy or foul-smelling urine, indicate a possible infection. While a small amount of blood in the urine (hematuria) is a common side effect, heavy or constant dark bloody urine or the presence of thick blood clots is abnormal. Patients should always follow the specific post-procedure instructions provided by their physician, as guidelines vary based on the underlying condition and stent type.