Q&A – Double J stent placement

The double J tube is a thin and flexible tube inserted into one or both of the ureters. The ureters are two small channels, each about 20 cm long. They carry urine produced by the kidneys to the bladder. The term ‘double J’ comes from the loops located at the ends of the tube, which help it stay securely in place. Typically, the double J tube is left in place for a few days to several months, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.

It can happen that the flow of urine through the ureters becomes restricted or blocked. This can occur due to the presence of small debris in the ureter following treatment to destroy kidney stones. It can also be caused by a narrowing of the ureter due to a disease or an accident. Therefore, the insertion of a double J tube helps to keep the passage for urine from the kidney to the bladder open.

It is normal to experience some discomfort:

• • Pain in the back or abdomen when you urinate.
  • Frequent need to urinate.
  • Traces of blood in your urine.

To alleviate these discomforts, it is recommended to drink plenty of water. Your doctor may also prescribe a pain treatment.

• Inflammation or infection of the kidney (1 to 5% of cases)
• Urinary tract infection (1 to 5% of cases)
• Blockage of the double J tube (1 to 5% of cases)

Diet

It is important to follow the following recommendations so that the doctor can perform a quality examination.

If your appointment is in the morning:

• • You must fast completely from midnight.
  • You can take your usual medications with a little water in the morning of the examination.

If your appointment is in the afternoon:

• • You must fast completely from 7 a.m. in the morning.
  • Before 7 a.m. on the morning of your appointment, you can have a light breakfast and take your usual medications.