If you have recently undergone a procedure for kidney stones or a ureteric obstruction, you are likely familiar with the DJ (Double-J) stent. This small, flexible tube has been a silent partner in your recovery, ensuring your kidney drains properly and your ureter heals without issue. But now, the time for its removal is approaching, and it’s natural to have questions: What is the DJ stent removal procedure like? Will it be painful? What happens afterward?
As a urologist and robotic surgeon in Noida and the Delhi NCR, I perform DJ stent removals routinely. My goal is to demystify this simple, quick, and essential procedure, providing you with the clarity and confidence you need for a smooth final step in your recovery journey.
What is a DJ Stent and Why is Timely Removal Crucial?
A DJ stent is a thin, hollow tube placed entirely inside your urinary tract, with one J-shaped curl in your kidney and the other in your bladder. It acts as an internal scaffold, keeping the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) open to ensure urine flows freely.
While it is vital for post-operative healing, it is a temporary device. Leaving a stent in for too long can lead to significant complications, including:
Stone Formation (Encrustation): Urine minerals can crystallize on the stent, forming stones that make removal difficult.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The stent can act as a surface for bacteria to grow.
Chronic Discomfort: Persistent bladder irritation, frequency, and flank pain.
Forgotten Stent Syndrome: A long-forgotten stent can become heavily encrusted, break, and cause serious kidney damage.
Therefore, the DJ stent removal procedure is not just a final step—it is a critical one for protecting your long-term kidney health.
Preparing for Your DJ Stent Removal Procedure
Preparation is straightforward and designed to make the process as comfortable as possible.
Consultation: We will discuss the ideal timing for your removal, which is typically a few days to several weeks after it was placed.
Hydration: I usually advise patients to drink plenty of water on the day of the procedure. A full bladder can sometimes make the process smoother.
Medication Review: Inform me of all medications you are taking, especially blood thinners.
Anesthesia Choice: We will decide on the best option for you. For most patients, this is a simple in-office procedure.
The DJ Stent Removal Procedure: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
The standard method for removing a DJ stent is a procedure called cystoscopy. It is much simpler than it sounds and typically takes only a few minutes.
Local Anesthesia: First, a numbing gel (local anesthetic) is gently applied inside your urethra. This minimizes any discomfort and makes the procedure virtually painless for most patients. You will be awake and comfortable throughout.
Introducing the Cystoscope: A cystoscope—a very thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end—is carefully passed through your urethra into your bladder.
Locating the Stent: I can see a magnified view of your bladder on a monitor. The lower J-curl of the stent is easily located.
Gentle Removal: A tiny grasping tool is passed through the cystoscope. It securely holds the end of the stent.
Painless Extraction: With a gentle, steady motion, both the stent and the cystoscope are removed together. The entire process from start to finish is often over in less than 5 minutes.
For patients who are extremely anxious, the procedure can be performed under light sedation or general anesthesia, though this is less common.
Post-Procedure Care: What to Expect After DJ Stent Removal
Recovery is typically very quick. Here’s what you can expect in the first 24-48 hours:
Mild Discomfort: You may feel a slight burning sensation during the first few times you urinate.
Urinary Frequency/Urgency: It’s common to feel the need to urinate more often for a day or two.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is the best thing you can do. It helps flush out your system and soothes any irritation.
Resume Normal Activities: Most patients can return to work and their normal daily activities the same day or the next day.
When to Call Your Urologist in Noida:
Contact my office if you experience severe pain, are unable to urinate, see heavy blood clots, or develop a fever. These are rare but require attention.
Frequently Asked Questions about DJ Stent Removal
Q1: Is DJ stent removal painful?
For the vast majority of patients, the procedure is not painful due to the effective local anesthetic gel. You may feel a strange sensation or mild discomfort, but sharp pain is uncommon.
Q2: Will I see blood in my urine after the removal?
It is normal to see a small amount of pink-tinged urine for the first day. This should clear up quickly as you hydrate.
Q3: How much does DJ stent removal cost in the Noida/Delhi NCR region?
The cost varies based on the facility and whether it is done with local or general anesthesia. A procedure under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting is highly affordable. We can provide a clear estimate during your consultation.
Q4: Can a DJ stent come out on its own?
No. A standard DJ stent is designed to stay in place and must be professionally removed by a urologist. (A stent with a string is an exception, but your doctor would have given you specific instructions).
The removal of your DJ stent marks the successful completion of your treatment. It is a safe, quick, and routine procedure that paves the way for your return to normal life without discomfort.
If your DJ stent removal is due, or if you have any questions about the procedure, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
