Stone Surgery
DJ Stenting (Ureteric Stent)
A soft internal tube placed between the kidney and bladder to keep urine draining past a blockage or after stone surgery.
01What is it?
A DJ (double-J) stent is a thin tube with curls at each end, sitting entirely inside the body from kidney to bladder.
02When is treatment considered?
Used to relieve blockage (e.g. from a stone, especially with infection), after ureteroscopy or other ureteric surgery, or to protect healing.
03Available treatment options
For blocked, infected kidneys the alternative emergency option is a nephrostomy tube placed through the back; the choice depends on the situation.
04What does the procedure involve?
Placed endoscopically under anaesthesia or, in selected cases, under local anaesthesia. Removal is a brief outpatient endoscopic procedure.
05Expected recovery
Most people continue normal activity with a stent, though urgency, frequency, mild blood in urine or flank discomfort during urination are common while it is in place.
06Common risks
Stent symptoms (urgency, discomfort), infection, encrustation if forgotten beyond its intended duration, and rarely migration.
07When to seek medical attention
Fever, worsening pain or heavy bleeding while a stent is in place warrants review. Stents must never be forgotten — attend your removal appointment.
08Frequently asked questions
This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an individual medical consultation. Diagnosis and treatment should be based on assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.