A ureteric stent is a small tube placed in the ureter to help urine flow from the kidney to the bladder when there is blockage or narrowing.
A ureteric stent is usually used because of symptoms from blockage such as pain, infection, swelling of the kidney, or difficulty draining urine rather than because the stent is itself a diagnosis.
Imaging helps identify the blockage, show how severe it is, and confirm where the stent should be placed or how well it is working afterward.
Imaging helps confirm the obstruction and may assist with placement or follow-up depending on the situation.
The stent may be temporary or part of longer-term management depending on the cause of the blockage.
This entry explains the procedure. Before you go, read the longer prep guide or find a centre that performs it.