Trimming a Tether: A Simple Way to Prevent Complications Related to Tethered Ureteral Stents

AbstractPurpose: A method to prevent complications related to a tethered ureteral stent was assessed.Materials and Methods: In 17 male patients tethers were trimmed just short of the meatus after insertion of a ureteral stent. At stent removal a rigid cystoscope was inserted into the anterior urethra, and the edge of the tether was grasped with foreign body forceps.Results: Only 1 patient required removal of the tether due to severe urethral discomfort. Pain at cystoscopy for removal of the ureteral stent was minimal.Conclusions: This method is useful for improving the quality of life during the catheterization period without decreasing effectiveness of a conventional ureteral stent with a tether.