Introduction
Supine Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a treatment usually reserved for larger stones in the kidney or upper ureter.
What Is PCNL? (H2)
Supine Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy PCNL is a minimally invasive technique to remove large stone burden from the kidneys. PCNL procedure usually takes up to 2-2.5 hours under general anaesthesia and requires a 1-2 night stay.
Who Is Supine Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy PCNL Kidney Surgery Suitable For? (H2)
PCNL procedure is suitable for people with large kidney stones, (usually more than 2cm)
What Is The PCNL Procedure?
- Following general anaesthetic a small incision is made in the skin and the kidney punctured using a fine needle.
- This tract is then dilated and a plastic tube inserted into the kidney.
- A telescope is passed through the tube.
- The stone is then visualised and identified and either removed whole or broken into small pieces.
- After the operation it is usual to be left with a small tube coming from the kidney for a couple of days.
How Long Does Recovery Take From PCNL?
Patients who have had PCNL are usually on their feet the next day and discharged from hospital within 48 hours and can resume normal activity within 2-3 weeks.
What Are The Advantages Of PCNL?
There are many advantages of PCNL:
- It is minimally invasive resulting in less pain and bleeding vs conventional open procedures
- Early recovery time and reduced hospital time
- Best modality for stone clearance
Potential Risks From PCNL
Complications of PCNL include:
- failure to access the kidney
- bleeding
- damage to adjacent surrounding organs
How Much Does PCNL Surgery Cost?
The surgical fee costs of PCNL are approximately from £1500