The aim of this work was to determine which part of a double-J ureteral stent (DJ stents) showed the highest tendency to crystal, calculi, and biofilm deposition after ureterorenoscopic-lithotripsy procedure (URS-L) to treat calcium oxalate stones. Additionally, the mechanical strength and the stiffness of DJ stents were evaluated before and after exposure to urine. Obtained results indicated that the proximal (renal pelvis) and distal (urinary bladder) part is the most susceptible for post-URS-L fragments and urea salt deposition. Both, the outer and inner surfaces of the DJ ureteral stents were completely covered even after 7 days of implantation. Encrustation of DJ stents during a 31-day period results in reducing the Young's modulus by 27-30%, which confirms the loss of DJ stent elasticity and increased probability of cracks or interruption. Performed analysis pointed to the need to use an antibacterial coating in the above-mentioned part of the ureteral stent to prolong its usage time and to prevent urinary tract infection.
Keywords: Kidney stone; Mechanical strength; Scanning electron microscopy; Ureteral stent; Ureterorenoscopic-lithotripsy procedure.