PCNL
A minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove large, hard, or complex kidney stones.
overview
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy, commonly known as PCNL, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove large or complex kidney stones that cannot be treated effectively with medications, shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), or other endoscopic techniques like RIRS or URSL.
It is the preferred treatment option for stones larger than 2 cm, staghorn stones, or when multiple stones are present in the kidney. PCNL allows for direct access to the kidney through a small incision in the back, typically about 1 cm, which enables the surgeon to remove stones with greater precision.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
The procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. A needle is first inserted into the kidney through the skin, guided by ultrasound or X-ray imaging. A tract is then dilated to allow a small tube (called a nephroscope) to pass into the kidney.
How is it Performed?
- Done under general or spinal anesthesia.
- A small incision (about 1 cm) is made in the back to access the kidney directly.
- A nephroscope is inserted through the incision to visualize and break the stones using ultrasonic, pneumatic, or laser energy.
- Stone fragments are then removed through the tube.
- A nephrostomy tube or stent may be placed temporarily for drainage.