Double-J stents are often preferred over external ureteral catheters in the management of staghorn stones with tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for several reasons:

1. **Reduced Urinary Leakage**: Double-J stents are placed internally, from the kidney to the bladder, reducing the chance of urinary leakage which is a common issue with external catheters.

2. **Patient Comfort**: Patients generally find internal stents more comfortable as they do not have an external device attached to them. This can also reduce the risk of accidental catheter removal.

3. **Lower Infection Risk**: The risk of urinary tract infections is generally lower with internal stents as compared to external catheters, as there is no open pathway for bacteria to enter the body.

4. **Longer Term Use**: Double-J stents can be left in place for longer periods of time compared to external catheters, which is beneficial in cases where prolonged drainage is required.

5. **Improved Drainage**: Double-J stents can provide better drainage of the upper urinary tract, which is particularly important in patients with staghorn stones to prevent obstruction and kidney damage.

6. **Allows for Spontaneous Stone Passage**: The presence of a Double-J stent can also facilitate the spontaneous passage of any residual stone fragments following PCNL.

However, the choice between a Double-J stent and an external ureteral catheter should be individualized based on the patient's specific condition, the size and location of the stones, and the surgeon's experience and preference.

Question

Double-J stents are often preferred over external ureteral catheters in the management of staghorn stones with tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for several reasons:

1. **Reduced Urinary Leakage**: Double-J stents are placed internally, from the kidney to the bladder, reducing the chance of urinary leakage which is a common issue with external catheters.

2. **Patient Comfort**: Patients generally find internal stents more comfortable as they do not have an external device attached to them. This can also reduce the risk of accidental catheter removal.

3. **Lower Infection Risk**: The risk of urinary tract infections is generally lower with internal stents as compared to external catheters, as there is no open pathway for bacteria to enter the body.

4. **Longer Term Use**: Double-J stents can be left in place for longer periods of time compared to external catheters, which is beneficial in cases where prolonged drainage is required.

5. **Improved Drainage**: Double-J stents can provide better drainage of the upper urinary tract, which is particularly important in patients with staghorn stones to prevent obstruction and kidney damage.

6. **Allows for Spontaneous Stone Passage**: The presence of a Double-J stent can also facilitate the spontaneous passage of any residual stone fragments following PCNL.

However, the choice between a Double-J stent and an external ureteral catheter should be individualized based on the patient's specific condition, the size and location of the stones, and the surgeon's experience and preference.

Knowee AI · Accepted Answer