The prophylactic use of a ureteral stent in laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The insertion of prophylactic ureteral stents in traditional colorectal surgery has been debated for a long time. The aim of this study is to investigate the results of ureteric stent insertion in elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery in terms of complications and costs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From June 2009 to June 2011 one or two prophylactic ureteral stents were placed in all patients undergoing elective laparoscopic resection of their colon or rectum.

RESULTS

A total of 89 patients took part in this study, 61% had a benign disease and 39% malignant. The mean time for ureteral stent insertion was 16 min if one-sided and 21 min if bilateral. Incidental findings were found in the bladder in four (4.5%) patients. In all, 13 (26%) male patients had a benign prostatic adenoma, and 3 (6%) male patients had a significant stenosis of the urethral meatus and required bouginage. Complications due to ureteral stent insertion were transient hematuria in 11 (12.3%) cases, postoperative urinary tract infections in 2 (2.2%) cases, and hydronephrosis in 2 (2.2%) cases. One patient suffered an accidental damage of the right ureter despite the presence of a stent; this was recognized intraoperatively. The total cost for a one-sided ureteral stent insertion is calculated at around €360, and for a bilateral ureteral stent insertion, it is around €410.

CONCLUSIONS

The prophylactic use of a ureteral stent in laparoscopic colorectal surgery leads to minor complications and may be cost-effective.