What is Ureteric Stricture?

Below is a brief introduction to Ureteric stricture. Please always consult a doctor for an examination if you experience symptoms of or suspect ureteric stricture.

How Ureteric Stricture Affects Urine Flow

Ureteric (or “ureteral”) stricture is the limiting of the urine flow through either or both of the ureters, which impedes the body’s ability to pass urine. Ureteric stricture can occur in varying severity from light strictures with limited symptoms and some continued flow of urine, to complete and acute obstructions with severe symptoms and no urine passage. Symptoms or suspicions of ureteric stricture should always be consulted with a doctor.

Learn about the ureters

Illustration of ureter with three Memokath stents restoring flow

How Ureteric Stricture Affects Urine Flow

The kidneys produce urine which is carried to the bladder by a fine muscular tube called a ureter. The urinary bladder acts as a reservoir for the urine and, when it is full, it is emptied via the urethra (urination). The urine relieves the body from unwanted substances, and it is essential that urine can leave the body freely.

A ureteric obstruction is an abnormal narrowing of the ureter blocking the passage of urine through the ureter. An obstruction of the ureter can lead to reduced kidney function as well as infection.

Ureteric Obstructions

The most common symptoms are constant or intermittent flank pain/lower abdominal pain. Other symptoms can be:

General discomfort, fever and nausea
Urinary tract infection
Foul-smelling urine

The Memokath™ solution

Memokath™ is a long-term solution for men and women of all ages who are not able nor wish to go through often repeated procedures or major surgery and aiming for a better quality of life.

Memokath™ is a supportive spiral tube made of nickel-titanium ”Ni-Ti” which is inserted in the ureter to recreate a passage for the urine through the ureter. It is passed through the urethra into the bladder and up into the ureter. The Memokath™ stent covers only the obstruction and not the healthy part of ureter. The procedure is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia and it
normally takes approximately 40-50 minutes.

After the insertion, it is advised to drink plenty of water as it minimizes the risk of urinary tract infection. Most patients can leave the hospital on the day of treatment and return to their daily routines within a few days.

Memokath™ can be left in place for several years as it is designed as a long-term solution. It does not activate security alarms and since it is CT and MRI compatible getting a scan is no problem. It does not cause nickel allergy as there is no nickel on the stent surface.

Illustration of ureter stricture obstructing urine flow

Illustrtation of ureter with Memokath stent restoring urine flow

Freaquently Asked Questions

What do I need to do before the procedure?

For Memokath™ 051, general or spinal anaesthesia is normally used. There is usually nothing special you need to do beyond the standard preparation for a minimally invasive procedure. Your surgeon and hospital staff will arrange everything needed, which may include antibiotics before and after the procedure and fasting for around 12 hours for patient safety.

Will the procedure hurt?

Memokath™ 051 is normally inserted under general or spinal anaesthesia, so you should not feel anything during the procedure. Your healthcare provider will explain which type of anaesthesia is most suitable for you beforehand.

Will I have pain after the procedure?

Most patients experience little to no pain after insertion of the Memokath™ 051 stent. Some mild irritation or temporary blood in the urine may occur after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will explain what to expect and when you should contact them if needed.

How soon can I return to my normal activities?

Patients can usually return to their normal daily activities after around two days, although vigorous physical activity should still be avoided. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when it is appropriate to return to your usual activities.

Will I have any wounds after the procedure?

If the stent is inserted through the urinary tract, there is usually no external wound. If an antegrade insertion is performed, a small skin incision may be needed. Your healthcare provider will explain how to care for the area after the procedure.

Is there anything I should avoid after the procedure?

Patients are advised to avoid vigorous physical activity for up to two weeks after insertion of the Memokath™ 051 ureteral stent. Your healthcare provider can advise you on when it is safe to return to your normal level of activity.

Is there a risk of nickel allergy from the stent?

The Memokath™ 051 ureteral stent is made from a biocompatible nickel-titanium alloy (NiTi), a material commonly used in medical devices. The stent is designed to minimise nickel ion release because the surface does not contain nickel.

What can I do to reduce the risk of deposits forming on the stent?

Drinking enough fluids each day can help maintain a healthy flow of urine and may reduce the build-up of mineral deposits on the stent. Your healthcare provider can advise you on an appropriate fluid intake based on your individual needs. If deposits do form, the Memokath™ 051 ureteral stent is designed so that it can be removed or replaced using minimally invasive techniques.