Cook Medical has presented Resonance Metallic Ureteral Stent 29-month clinical study at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Urological Association (AUA). The results have demonstrated the long-term success of Resonance Metallic Ureteral Stent in providing drainage for patients with both benign and malignant upper urinary tract obstructions.

The findings suggest that metallic stents provide adequate drainage and can be maintained in situ for 12 months without significant encrustation. Traditional polymer stents may need to be changed three to four times a year, exposing patients to procedural risks and the financial burden of multiple hospital visits.

According to Cook Medical, the Resonance Metallic Ureteral Stent achieved and maintained adequate urinary drainage in an average of 84% of patients: 92% of those with benign obstructions, and 83% of those with malignant obstructions. There were no cases of stent migration, intraoperative complications or significant encrustation upon stent exchange at one year.

Thomas Turk, lead investigator of the study and associate professor of urology at Loyola University Health System, said: “We found that the Cook stent was highly effective for 12 months in providing drainage for patients with both benign and malignant obstructions with good patient tolerance and without significant encrustation.

“The Cook stent also reduced the number of replacement procedures required, due to the fact that metallic stents can be maintained in situ for 12 months without significant encrustation. For these reasons, the Resonance stent can be considered for patients requiring long-term upper urinary tract drainage.”

Nicky James, vice president and global leader of Cook Urology, said: “Dr Turk’s study reinforces the positive impact of the Cook Resonance Stent in providing drainage for patients with ureteral obstructions. The results of the study show that this device both improves patient care and can reduce medical costs associated with multiple stent changes.”