The indwelling ureteric stent--the Bristol experience.

Indwelling ureteric stents have been used for upper urinary tract drainage in 17 patients. The advantages over traditional methods in terms of endoscopic insertion, avoidance of external diversion and potentially lengthy periods of drainage are described. Patients requiring ureteric splintage following open procedures can also benefit from internal stenting rather than external drainage. Withdrawal is performed as a minor out-patient endoscopic procedure.