Objective:

To review the results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in 60 renal units (RU).

Material and Methods:

During a period between December 2005 and November 2006, a total of 60 patients underwent PCNL. Percutaneous renal access was done under C-armed flouroscopy with patients in prone position. The tract was dilated with a balloon dilatator and a 30 F Amplatz sheet was placed. Percutaneous stone disintegration and removal was performed with a 26 Fr rigid nephroscope and pneumatic lithotriptor. A 14 F nephrostomy tube was placed at the end of each procedure. Results of 60 cases were compared.

Results:

The mean age of patients enrolled to the study was 40 (16-65). There were 29 male, 31 female patients and 28 left, 32 right kidneys involved. The mean percutaneous procedure time was 145,8 min. (75-190). The stone free rate was found 54/60 (%90). When residual fragments less than 4mm were defined as ‘’insignificant’’, success rate was 58/60 (%96.66). Postoperative hemorrhage requiring transfusion was encountered in 3 (%5) patients. Preoperative and postoperative, hemoglobin difference was 1,33 gr/dl and hemotocrit difference was 2,9.

Conclusion:

In view of these results, PCNL appears to be an effective and safe treatment modality for renal calculi.

Keywords: Renal calculi, percutaneous surgery, percutaneous nephrolithotomy