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.