SUPINE MINI PCNL

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a procedure to remove large stones from the kidneys or ureters. Mini supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a modification to standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy technique to improve post-operative recovery and reduce the risk of complications such as post-operative pain, bleeding and lung atelectasis.

When is this procedure done?

The procedure is indicated for large stones in the kidney which is too big to treat with ESWL or laser ureteropyeloscopy. Stones smaller than 5 cm are generally suitable for treatment with the mini supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy technique.

Procedure of Supine Mini PCNL

The patient is positioned lying face up on the operating table rather than the prone (face down) position usually used with PCNL. A 16 French tube (circumference is 16 mm) is inserted through the kidney to treat the stones with mini-PCNL. This causes less damage to the kidney and reduces bleeding. A kidney drainage tube is usually not required with mini-PCNL. The stone is blasted into fragments with a laser fiber and stone fragments are flushed out through the hollow tube.

Patients can normally go home the next day following supine mini PCNL surgery.

Advantages of Supine Mini PCNL

• Less blood loss
• Shorter hospitalization
• Recommended for large renal stones in children
• Safe procedure and does not relate to serious complications.