Movable Stent for Patients Using the Toilet

Feeling the ureteral stent move inside the body after placement is usually a normal phenomenon, primarily caused by the stent material, urine flow, and changes in body position. However, it is important to be vigilant for abnormal signals such as persistent pain and worsening hematuria.

Why does the stent feel like it's moving?

1. Stent material properties: Ureteral stents are mostly made of soft materials such as silicone or polyurethane. After implantation, they may experience slight displacement with body movements (such as bending or turning) or ureteral contractions. Although the displacement amplitude is minimal, sensitive individuals may perceive it.
2. Urine flow impact: The pressure generated by bladder contraction during urination may cause the end of the stent (the part near the bladder) to sway slightly. This sensation is more pronounced when urinating suddenly after holding urine, as the pressure change is significant.
3. Changes in body position: Activities such as getting up from lying down or sitting for a long time may alter the tension in the ureter, leading to a temporary adaptive adjustment of the stent's position and causing a slight pulling sensation.

What situations are considered normal?

1. Slight pulling sensation: Occasional soreness or pulling sensation in the lower abdomen or waist during activity, which subsides after rest.
2. Foreign body sensation during urination: Brief discomfort in the bladder area at the beginning or end of urination, usually requiring no special treatment.
3. Slight worsening of hematuria: After strenuous activity, the urine may appear slightly red, but the color fades or disappears after rest, which is a normal reaction.

Abnormal signals to be alert for

1. Persistent severe pain: Unrelieved pain in the waist or lower abdomen that radiates to the perineum may indicate stent displacement or ureteral injury.
2. Worsening gross hematuria: If the urine appears bright red or contains blood clots and persists for more than 24 hours, infection or stent friction injury should be investigated.
3. Difficulty urinating or fever: A significant decrease in urine output, difficulty urinating, or a fever exceeding 38.5°C may indicate a concurrent urinary tract infection, requiring prompt medical attention.
4. Stent dislodgement: If a foreign object (such as the end of the stent) is found at the urethral opening, immediate contact with a doctor is necessary to avoid urethral injury.

Note: Ureteral stents have coiled 'J'-shaped hooks at both ends, which are anchored in the kidney and bladder, respectively. Normal activities (such as walking or turning over) usually do not cause them to dislodge. A foreign body sensation at the urethral opening in a few individuals is mostly due to irritation from the stent tail wire or end and does not indicate stent slippage. If abnormal signals occur, timely medical evaluation of the stent's position and function is recommended.