Temporary ureteric occlusion using a graduated blind end nephro-ureteric catheter: Preliminary results

Achieving temporary ureteric occlusion continues to be a challenging problem for interventional radiologists. Many of the methods described are either potentially hazardous (with a risk of permanent stricture) or cumbersome, requiring repeated antegrade manipulation. We describe the design and successful use of a graduated nephro-ureteric catheter in four ureters in two different patients. This new catheter successfully provides prolonged ureteric occlusion without causing a permanent ureteric stricture at short-term follow-up. Furthermore, the catheter does not require repeated manipulation and is ideally suited for management of ambulant patients. This catheter has a number of specific features which make it better suited for providing temporary ureteric occlusion without causing some of the problems associated with other catheters or techniques. Further clinical experience is warranted.