Initial experiences with a self-expanding metal stent in malignant ureteral compression

Self-expanding metallic stents for the treatment of hydronephrosis were implanted in 12 ureters with malignant compression in 10 patients. In 3 ureters the stents were introduced percutaneously by a transrenal route; in 8 ureters introduction was transurethral and in one ureter by a combined route. Patency rate after 6 months was 90.9%. In all cases the stent was able to withstand pressure by the tumour for the remainder of the patient's life. In one patient there was incrustation of both stents after 30 weeks, in another patient the ureter was kinked between the level of the stent and the distal ureter due to growth of the tumour. In all cases it was possible to overcome the obstruction during the lifetime of the patient by the use of a stent or by combining the stent with a plastic endoprosthesis.