Preliminary Investigation on Biodegradable Ureteral Stents Using 3D Printing

The prevalence of kidney stones, a significant urological health concern, necessitates advancements in the management and treatment methods, particularly in the domain of ureteral stents. This study explores the feasibility and potential benefits of utilizing three biodegradable polymers—Polylactic Acid (PLA), Tough Polylactic Acid (Tough PLA), and Polylactic Acid/Poly-hydroxybutyrate (PLA/PHB)—for the fabrication of 3D-printed ureteral stents tailored to patient-specific needs. Through the integration of CAD and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology, ureteral stents were successfully produced, demonstrating key advantages in terms of biodegradability and mechanical properties. The study involved a rigorous evaluation of the biodegradability, tensile strength, and hardness of the stents. Biodegradability tests performed in a simulated physiological environment revealed that PLA/PHB and Tough PLA stents exhibited higher degradation rates compared to PLA, aligning with the requirements for temporary urinary tract support. Tensile strength testing indicated that while PLA showed the highest strength, PLA/PHB and Tough PLA stents provided beneficial ductility, reducing the risk of blockage due to material breakage. Hardness assessments classified PLA/PHB stents as medium soft, optimizing patient comfort during the stenting period. These findings demonstrate the potential of using biodegradable polymers to produce ureteral stents that could eliminate the need for removal procedures, thereby enhancing patient recovery and comfort.