Obstruction of Malignancy: Percutaneous Renal vs Endoscopic Stent

This research study will compare two procedures commonly used to treat urinary obstruction due to cancer. Sometimes cancer blocks one or both ureters (narrow tubes in the body that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder). When these ureters become blocked, the body can no longer properly drain urine. This blocking of the ureters is called urinary obstruction, which can lead to kidney problems, infection, and pain. Treatment options for urinary obstruction include ureteral stent placement and percutaneous nephrostomy tube placement. Both treatment options require a doctor to place soft tubes (like a catheter) inside the body to help the ureters properly drain urine. These two treatment options have different success rates, risks, and effects on quality of life. By doing this study, researchers hope to learn which treatment option is best for individuals who develop urinary obstruction because of cancer. Participation in this research will last about 3 months.