When a man experiences an obstruction in the prostrate or a lower urinary tract infection, a prostatic stent may be inserted to allow the flow of urine to take place.  A prostatic stent is a device used to either permanently or temporarily open the male urethra and it can be inserted as a temporary or permanent device. If a temporary stent is inserted, it is usually to help control the urinary flow after procedures that might cause the prostrate to swell.  Permanent stents are used to control the symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia or other blockages to the prostrate.  The stent is completely internal and can be inserted or removed as easy as a catheter.  The procedure is usually conducted on an out-patient basis.