OBJECTIVES To investigate the learning curve in the training of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). METHODS A total of 104 PCNL cases were included in this evaluation to define the learning curve of a surgeon with no previous experience at performing solo PCNL. Two parameters of expertise were reviewed, namely the operation and fluoroscopic screening times. The operation time was calculated ...

PURPOSE Irrigation-induced increase in intrarenal pressure is of concern because it may cause infection due to increased pyelovenous and pyelolymphatic absorption. This study is the first to compare prospectively the absorbed fluid volumes during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for stones larger than 2 cm. MATERIALS AND METHODS General anesthesia w...

PURPOSE To share the experience of the authors with the urological family in the world by the review of literature on supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). MATERIALS AND METHODS We have searched all the available databases, including PubMed or MEDLINE and Embase Biomedical Database to find any English articles related to supine PCNL from 1998 to 2010. Of 17 studies, 11 were case series ...

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Precise needle puncture of the kidney is a challenging and essential step for successful percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Many devices and surgical techniques have been developed to easily achieve suitable renal access. This article presents a critical review to address the methodologies and techniques for conducting kidney targeting and the puncture step during PCNL....

BACKGROUND We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing stone-free rates between retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), using updated, more reliable evidence. MATERIALS AND METHODS Randomized controlled trials comparing RIRS and PCNL for >2 cm stones were identified from electronic databases. Stone-free rates for the procedures were compa...

OBJECTIVES To present the chronological development of the different positions described for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), in an attempt to identify the reasons for their development and to highlight their specific advantages and disadvantages. METHODS Previous reports were identified by a non-systematic search of Medline and Scopus. RESULTS The classic prone position for PCNL was fi...

BACKGROUND Tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy is defined as PCNL without postoperative nephrostomy tubes. It is reported to reduce postoperative pain, hospital stay and recovery time. To date the procedure has been reserved for selected patients. OBJECTIVES To assess our initial experience in extending the implementation of tubeless PCNL without preoperative patient selection. METHODS Al...

Splenic injuries related to percutaneous nephrostolithotomy (PCNL) are infrequent. Herein, we report a combined splenic and pleural injury incurred during PCNL along with radiographic images documenting the complication. A review of management techniques for similar injuries is included.

Percutaneous nephrostolithotomy (PCNL) constitutes first line therapy for large and complex renal calculi. However, retained calculi generated by intracorporeal lithotripsy remain a concern because of their potential for growth and future symptoms. Liberal use of flexible nephroscopy identifies residual calculi and increases stone free rates. However, historically the sensitivity of radiographi...

PURPOSE To evaluate the effectivity and safety of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in the treatment of solitary kidney with staghorn stones in prone position or in completely supine position. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of 18 patients with staghorn stones in a solitary kidney treated with PCNL. 12 patients underwent PCNL in prone position (group A). 6 pati...