Novel Use of an Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscope for Double J Stent Removal via Ileal Conduit: A Minimally Invasive Approach Expanding Endourological Options

Bladder carcinoma requiring radical cystectomy often necessitates urinary diversion, with the ileal conduit being the most common option. Double J (DJ) stents are routinely placed across uretero-ileal anastomoses to support healing but require timely removal to avoid complications. Conventional removal techniques involve percutaneous or retrograde approaches with specialized urological instruments. We describe a minimally invasive alternative in a 60-year-old male postcystectomy with an ileal conduit and bilateral DJ stents. Using an oesophagogastroduodenoscope (OGD) under fluoroscopic guidance, both stents were identified and successfully removed intact with a rat-toothed forceps, without complications. The patient recovered uneventfully with stable renal function and no evidence of leak or obstruction. This case highlights the feasibility of OGD-assisted retrograde DJ stent removal in ileal conduits, offering a simple, safe, and cost-effective alternative. Wider adoption may expand minimally invasive options in selected patients, although further studies are required to validate its safety and long-term outcomes.