What is a ureteral stent?

A ureteral stent is a temporary, small plastic tube that is placed in your ureter that helps drain urine from your kidney into your bladder by a urologist. A stent may be placed to help unblock your kidney if a stone or obstruction is present. A stent may also be placed during surgery to help allow the ureter to heal without forming a stricture or narrowing. Dr. Reznicek from Pacific Northwest Urology Specialists in Bellingham Washington explains the procedure and steps involved in a typical placement of a ureteral stent.