Urethral beading: A unique radiographic finding following laser lithotripsy for ureteric stent encrustation

Abstract

We present an interesting case of ureteric stent encrustation in a 35-year-old male who was lost to follow up for 8 months during the Covid-19 pandemic. After clearing severe stent encrustation with ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy, the patient presented with urinary retention and multiple failed catheterizations. They were found to have numerous calcified urethral fragments secondary to stent encrustation, with a unique radiographic appearance of a string of beads overlying the pubic symphysis. A new stent was inserted and the patient was lost to follow up for a further 4 months, during which time pronounced encrustation formed again.