Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
About this test
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (per-kyoo-TAYN-ee-uhs NEF-roe-lih-THOT-uh-me) is a procedure used to remove kidney stones from the body when they can't pass on their own. "Percutaneous" means through the skin. The procedure creates a passageway from the skin on the back to the kidney. A surgeon uses special instruments passed through a tiny tube in your back to locate and remove stones from the kidney.
Why it's done
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is typically recommended when: Large kidney stones block more than one branch of the collecting system of the kidney. These are known as staghorn kidney stones. Kidney stones are larger than 0.8 inch (2 centimeters) in diameter. Large stones are in the tube connecting a kidney and the bladder (ureter). Other therapies have failed.
Risks and complications
The most common risks from percutaneous nephrolithotomy include: Bleeding Infection Injury to the kidney or other organs Incomplete stone removal
How to prepare
Before percutaneous nephrolithotomy, you will have several tests. Urine and blood tests check for signs of infection or other problems, and a computerized tomography (CT) scan shows where the stones are in your kidney. You may be instructed to stop eating and drinking after midnight on the night before your procedure. Let your care team know about all of the medications, vitamins and dietary supplements you're taking. In some cases, you may need to stop these medications before your surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to reduce your chance of developing an infection after the procedure.
Understanding your results
You'll likely see your surgeon 4 to 6 weeks after surgery for a follow-up visit. If you have a nephrostomy tube for draining the kidney, you may return sooner. You may have ultrasound, X-ray or a CT scan to check for any stones that may be left and to make sure that urine is draining as usual from the kidney. If you have a nephrostomy tube, your surgeon will remove it after giving you a local anesthetic. Your surgeon or primary care provider may recommend blood tests to learn what caused the kidney stones. You may also talk about ways to prevent getting more kidney stones in the future.
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.