Risk Factors and Clinical Implications of Double-J Ureteral Stent Bacterial Colonization

This prospective cohort study will evaluate the risk factors associated with bacterial colonization of Double-J ureteral stents and examine its clinical implications. Adult patients undergoing temporary ureteral stent insertion for routine urological indications will be followed until stent removal, when urine and stent cultures will be obtained. The study will assess the association between colonization and factors such as indwelling time, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, prior urinary tract infection, prior antibiotic exposure, and stent-related symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older. * Temporary Double-J stent insertion. * Standard urological indication. * Planned stent removal during follow-up. * Ability to attend follow-up and provide specimens. * Written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Active urosepsis at insertion. * Permanent or intended long-term stenting. * Concomitant nephrostomy tube or urinary diversion. * Severe immunosuppression or neutropenia. * Incomplete baseline data. * Loss to follow-up or failure to retrieve the stent. * Refusal to participate.