A newly published prospective study in the Journal of Endourology has evaluated the Allium Metal Ureteral Stent (AMUS) for the treatment of ureteral strictures in patients with a solitary kidney — one of the most clinically demanding groups in reconstructive urology, where preserving function in the single remaining renal unit is paramount.
Study Findings
The prospective study included 47 patients presenting with 50 ureteral strictures. Across a two-year follow-up period, it reported:
- A 98% successful stent placement rate
- Follow-up success rates of 96% at one week, 82% at one year and 70% at two years
- A significant reduction in hydronephrosis
- A stable glomerular filtration rate maintained throughout the two-year follow-up
This case offered a training opportunity for Dr Yuko Smith of University Hospitals Birmingham, who was in attendance, to gain experience of the procedure. Throughout the case, the consultants were supported by the Clinical Product manager at LaproSurge, Asad Abid who has a wealth of experience with Allium.
Taken together, these outcomes indicate that AMUS was placed reliably and preserved renal function over a sustained period in a population where protecting the solitary kidney is the primary clinical concern.
Clinical Significance
For patients who are unsuitable for, or wish to avoid, complex reconstructive surgery, these findings provide encouraging evidence that AMUS may offer a minimally invasive alternative in carefully selected cases. The large-calibre, self-expanding nitinol design is intended to maintain ureteral patency while limiting the morbidity associated with open or robotic reconstruction.
For UK urology teams managing recurrent or complex ureteral strictures, the growing body of evidence around AMUS adds to the range of options available when planning treatment for challenging presentations.
Availability in the UK
LaproSurge is the official UK distributor of the Allium ureteral stent range, supporting urology departments and clinical teams across the country with product supply, information and technical support.
To find out more about AMUS and its availability in the UK, please contact the LaproSurge team. Clinicians can also sign up to the Allium User Group to stay informed of new clinical evidence, product updates and educational opportunities.
