Microbial Colonization Pattern of Indwelling Double J Stents in Children.

Background: Indwelling double-J-stent (DJ stent) kept post-urological procedures may cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to polymicrobial biofilm formation and colonisation.

Aims: To determine the incidence and microbiological characteristics of DJ stent related UTIs in a paediatric population.

Methods and material: Patients under the age of 18 admitted for DJ stent removal following pediatric urological procedures were enrolled into the study. Prior to surgical removal of the DJ stent, a urine sample was collected and the stent was cystoscopically removed under anesthesia. The ends of the stent were inoculated into culture media and incubated up to 48 hours. When growth was observed, an antibiogram was obtained using a panel of anti-microbial agents.

Results: The study group consisted of 27 patients (M: F = 23:4) with a mean age of 4.3 years (1 month - 13 years). The commonest indication for stent placement was Pyeloplasty, 19 (70%). Stent colonisation was found in 8 out of 27 patients (29.6%; CI 12-51%) and E.Coli (33%) was the commonest organism. Polymicrobial growth was noted in 4 patients. Organisms were sensitive to Cephaerazone/ Sulbactam and Amikacin, and resistant to other Cephalosporins. All 8 culture positive patients were asymptomatic and a repeat urine culture revealed no growth. Colonisation did not lead to active UTI and post stent removal the urine became sterile.

Conclusions: Microbial colonisation was noted in 30% of patients with indwelling DJ stents. Prior knowledge of culture & sensitivity pattern helps to cover the patients with appropriate antibiotic on the day of stent removal.