Ureteral Double J Stent Encrustation: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Background: The encrustation of ureteral double-J stents (DJS) is a troublesome complication that may impede their removal. Aims: To identify the prevalence and possible risk factors involved in the encrustation process, as well as related morbidity. Patients and Methods: Patients undergoing DJS removal at two university hospitals between July 2017 and November 2023 were included in a cross-sectional analysis. In order to find possible variables linked to DJS encrustation, we used logistic regression models, both univariate and multivariate. Results: The study enrolled 778 patients, with a mean age of 41.64±17.67 years and an average stent indwelling time of 199.13±191.38 days. 161 (20.7%) patients reported having DJS encrustation. The results of the univariate analysis revealed that several factors, including gender, BMI, history of urinary stone disease, indwelling time, urine acidification, and recurrent UTI, may contribute to DJS encrustation. However, multivariate analysis demonstrated that male gender (HR: 1.80, p: 0.018), lack of urine acidification (HR: 30.99, p: Conclusion: Our study identified the potential risk factors associated with DJS encrustation. Educating patients about these risk factors, the appropriate timing for removal, and the potential complications of neglected DJS may aid in reducing their occurrence.