Feasibility of Magnetic-end Double-J Ureteral Stent Use in Children

First reported in 1967, ureteral stenting evolved fast until the introduction of the double-J ureteral stent (DJUS) in 1978. It has since become one of the most common devices used in urology. Ureteral stenting has a wide spectrum of indications that can be summarized in two words: obstruction and leakage. Common indications in pediatric urology are pyeloplasty, ureteral reimplantation, kidney transplantation and stone disease.

Many modifications have been introduced to Finney's double-J to reduce stent-related complications and disadvantages, one of which is its removal technique. Classically, DJUS are introduced and removed in the operation room (OR), under general anesthesia (GA), using a cystoscope. Efforts have been made to avoid the second procedure under GA. Preventing the patient from undergoing a second OR experience is not the only issue. For institutions, DJUS removal is time consuming and costly in terms of resources, OR occupancy, and staff. In children, the potential neurotoxicity of repeated exposures to GA, is also a major concern.

Alternatives to surgical removal of DJUS vary from basic solutions such as transurethral string, hook, or other tools, to more complex innovations such as the single use flexible cystoscope, and biodegradable stents. Moreover, some pediatric teams used the externalized pyeloureteral stent as an alternative to DJUS. Using magnet for ureteral stent retrieval was introduced in the early 80s. Difficulties related to its insertion, as well as its low retrieval success rate, minimized its acceptance. It wasn't until 2002 when Taylor and McDougall revisited the concept of magnetic retrieval of the ureteral stent. Since then, few teams have published their experience with magnetic-end DJUS.

The magnetic-end Double-J ureteral stent is a 4.8 French DJUS with a small magnet fixed with a string at the distal loop. Explanation of the retrieval method and its potential complications are given to the parents, and informed consent obtained prior to surgery. All of the stents are inserted under GA in the exact same manner as regular DJUS: antegrade, retrograde (cystoscopy insertion) or open surgery. The stent's length varies between 12 and 24 cm depending on the age and weight of the child. An abdominal plain X-Ray is routinely done after pyeloplasty to check the position of the DJUS distal loop (MEDJUS or not) in the bladder before waking up the child. A successful stent insertion is defined as having a good position of the distal end and its magnet in the bladder

To remove the magnetic-end Double-J ureteral stent, a 9 French customized catheter-like retrieval device with a magnetic Tiemann tip, lubricated with 2% lidocaine jelly, is inserted into the urethra by the surgeon with the patient breathing inhaled premixed nitrous oxide and oxygen for procedural sedation in the outpatient clinic. Both indwelling magnets connect and the catheter can be removed together with the MEDJUS. Success of magnetic retrieval are regarded as MEDJUS retrieval in outpatient clinic with no need of general anesthesia.

The aim is to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of the magnetic-end DJUS in children and perform a medico-economic study / cost-effectiveness study to evaluate the impact of the use of MEDJUS in children in terms of retrieval time and cost, as well as OR and staff occupancy.