Call Us020 3325 4699 Book Online
Home » Treatments » PCNL

Treatments · Kidney Stones Supine PCNL for large kidney stones, removed directly.

Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) removes large or complex kidney stones through a small incision in the back, under general anaesthetic. No GP referral needed.

Mr Maneesh Ghei Performed personally by Mr Maneesh GheiConsultant Urological Surgeon · GMC 5208045 BupaPlatinum Consultant
Book a Consultation Call 020 3325 4699
4.93★★★★★Doctify142 verified reviews
DaysNot months -
to be seen
2-2.5 HrsTypical
operation time
Insured or Self-PayAll major insurers accepted
In short

Supine PCNL is a major procedure for kidney stones larger than 2cm, performed under general anaesthetic in around 2 to 2.5 hours, with a 1-2 day hospital stay.

Medically reviewed by Mr Maneesh Ghei·GMC 5208045·September 2026

Is Supine PCNL For You?

This procedure may suit you if

Your stone is large or complex

Difficult to treat with less invasive methods such as ureteroscopy or ESWL, typically larger than 2cm.

Other treatments have not succeeded

Supine PCNL is an option when other stone removal techniques have not worked.

You have anatomical factors to consider

Some anatomical issues make other procedures less viable, and PCNL is used in these cases.

Alternatives To Consider

Other options for kidney stones

ESWL

A non-invasive treatment using shock waves, best suited to small to medium-sized stones.

Ureteroscopy & Holmium Laser Lithotripsy

A scope and laser reach the stone through the urethra - suitable for stones in the ureter or kidney that are not excessively large.

Medical management

Some small stones can be managed with medication to aid passage, alongside dietary and fluid changes to prevent further stones.

What's Involved

The facts, and the fees

What the procedure involves

General anaesthesia, ensuring you are asleep and pain-free throughout
A small incision is made in the back, through which a nephroscope reaches the kidney directly
Stones are visualised, fragmented and removed using specialised instruments
A nephrostomy tube may be placed temporarily to drain urine and any residual fragments

Fees, explained up front

As a major operation, fees depend on your case and hospital. Every cost is set out and agreed before you decide anything.

AnaestheticGeneral
Operation time2 - 2.5 hours
Hospital stay1-2 days
Activity restriction4-6 weeks
Preventive antibiotics are often given to reduce infection risk, and follow-up imaging checks that all fragments have cleared.
Book a ConsultationSee All Fees
Simple, Fast, Clear

Diagnosed and cleared in 3 steps

1

Book your consultation

Most patients are seen within a few days for imaging and an assessment with Mr Ghei.

2

Your procedure

Performed under general anaesthetic through a small incision in the back, typically lasting 2 to 2.5 hours.

3

Recovery and follow-up

A 1-2 day hospital stay, then activity restrictions for 4-6 weeks while imaging confirms the stones have cleared.

Mr Maneesh Ghei, Consultant Urological Surgeon
GMC 5208045 · FRCS (Urol)
Your Consultant

Mr Maneesh Ghei

MBBS, MS, MRCSEd, MD (UCL), FRCS (Urol)

Mr Ghei is a consultant urological surgeon with a specialist focus on prostate diagnosis and treatment. He holds a Research MD from University College London and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons.

In his NHS role he is Cancer Lead and Academic Lead at Whittington Hospital London - one of a small number of consultant urologists in the UK to hold both positions. Every private patient is cared for by Mr Ghei personally, from first appointment through to any treatment that follows.

Cancer Lead · Whittington Hospital BupaPlatinum recognised consultant English · Hindi · Punjabi · Urdu
Book With Mr Ghei Read Full Profile
Common Questions

Before you book

Is supine PCNL a major operation?
Yes. It is performed under general anaesthesia and requires a hospital stay, though it is less invasive than open surgery, with smaller incisions, less pain and a quicker recovery.
How long does the procedure take?
A supine PCNL procedure typically lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the stones.
What does recovery involve?
A 1-2 day hospital stay, followed by 4-6 weeks avoiding strenuous activity and heavy lifting. Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out any remaining fragments, and follow-up appointments remove any temporary stent and confirm the stones have cleared.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. Self-pay patients can book directly with no referral. If you plan to claim through insurance, some insurers ask for a GP referral first - we can guide you on what your policy needs.
Take the First Step

Get seen this week and put your mind at rest

Book an appointment or get in touch.

020 3325 4699Mon-Fri, answered personally
contact@urocarelondon.comWe reply within 24 working hours
Book onlineLive diary, choose your hospital

Request an appointment

We reply within 24 working hours

Need help to book a consultation or got an enquiry regarding what tests you may need?

Fill in your details and we will contact you

🔒 Your data is secure. We’ll only use it to arrange your appointment.

020 3325 4699 Book Online