Focal neuropathies following percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) – preliminary study

INTRODUCTION Postoperative neurological complications in pelvic and renal surgery are a well-known clinical problem and their morbidities are important. We designed this study to determine prevalence and risk factors of such complications after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed during February and July 2011 on 68 PCNL cases. Demographic data and surgery reports were gathered and comprehensive neurological physical examination carried out before and after surgery. Then, data was analyzed using software SPSS 18. RESULTS The ultimate sample included 30 (46.2%) male and 35 (53.8%) female patients with a mean age of 47.9 ± 11.47 years. In intercostal and lumbosacral plexus area, sensory neurological complications occurred in 8 patients (12.31%), 4 men and 4 women. The most common involved dermatomes and nerves were T12 (8 cases). There was a significant correlation between prolonged duration of surgery and prevalence of sensory complications (p<0.010). The highest hemoglobin value drop after surgery occurred in patients with neurological complications (p<0.001). There were no correlations between age, tracts used, diabetes mellitus, BMI, hypertension, positioning of patients and side of surgery with incidence of sensory neurological complications. No motor neurological complications occurred. CONCLUSION Prolonged duration of PCNL and increased value of hemoglobin drop may lead to increased risk of neuropathy. Larger prospective studies with retroperitoneal imagings and patients' follow up is suggested for better understanding of this complication.