A novel computer based stent registry to prevent retained stents: Will patient directed automated short message service and letter generator help?

Abstract

Objective:The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a computer based stent registry with patient directed automated information system to prevent retained double J stents.Materials and Methods:A stent registry system was developed in collaboration with our Computerized Hospital Information Processing Service Department. This computer based stent registry with patient directed automated information system was integrated with the existing clinical work station. We reviewed the records retrospectively and assessed the feasibility of the system in reminding clinicians and patients regarding the stent and its date of removal.Results:In a short run at our department, this new system appeared feasible, with patients promptly responding to the short message service and letter alerts.Conclusions:Computer based stent registry with patient directed automated information system is feasible in a clinical setting. A prospective study is needed for evaluation of its efficacy in preventing retained stents.

Updates in endourological management of urolithiasis

“…Two important ways to reduce the incidence is to increase the patient's awareness about the presence of the stent and have proper documentation . Booking an appointment for removal of the stent immediately after insertion and explaining to the patient that they need to have follow up for stent removal would increase the patient's awareness, as well as sending them text message reminders for the appointment . Proper documentation includes a database of patients who had a stent placed, which is reviewed regularly to identify those who have not appeared for follow up on time, and smartphone applications have been developed for this purpose …”

“…172 Booking an appointment for removal of the stent immediately after insertion and explaining to the patient that they need to have follow up for stent removal would increase the patient's awareness, as well as sending them text message reminders for the appointment. 173 Proper documentation includes a database of patients who had a stent placed, which is reviewed regularly to identify those who have not appeared for follow up on time, and smartphone applications have been developed for this purpose. 171,174 Considering the stent symptoms, it is a difficult condition to treat, as the mechanism is not well known, and treatment includes alpha-blockers, anticholinergics, anti-inflammatory medications and narcotic pain medications.…”

Re: Sabharwal S, Macaden AR, Abrol N, Mukha RP, Kekre NS. A novel computer based stent registry to prevent retained stents: Will patient directed automated short message service and letter generator help? Indian J Urol 2014;30:150-2

“…[1] Forgotten stents produce encrustations and stones, which may require either a retrograde or antegrade approach to remove them. Most importantly, these can be prevented by taking certain precautions.…”

“…[1] We believe that one important cause of forgotten stents is inadequate explanation to the patient at the time of discharge by the house officers/junior resident doctors as they write up the discharge summary with explanations for further follow-up. We suggest certain simple but effective means to combat these pitfalls.…”

Retained foreign bodies in urinary tract – our experience

“…As the use of stents & catheters became common, complications of retained foreign bodies came to light [1,2] . These stents, foley catheters, TCu are temporary and have to b Retained foreign bodies may be due to Iatrogenic migrating medical devices (Stent, Foleys, TCu), Inserted by the patient via the urethra for purpose of erotic stimulation, curiosity, or psychiatric illness, Trauma -Bullets calculus formations around such long standing intra vesicular foreign bodies are well documented [6] .…”