Place For Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy In Contemporary Era

Review Article

Abstract

Background : Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and its miniaturized modifications are usually considered the standard surgical options for large (>20 mm) stag horn and infected stones. Moreover, PCNL is a viable alternative to retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for smaller stones (<20 mm) in the presence of anatomical malformations or inaccessible lower pole stones. However, due to the
innovations in stone fragmentation devices and optical technologies, RIRS is expanding its indications with the potential benefits of lower complications and a shorter hospital stay. Recent research papers presently published confirm the significance of this procedure and its potential role in the treatment of large and complex stones. On the other hand miniaturized PCNL has become more competitive, gaining space among classic indications of flexible ureteroscopy. Considering all recent progress incorporated in performance of this procedure, we can conclude that PCNL is definitely time tested procedure and is here to maintain its cutting edge supremacy in the foreseeable future.

Key words: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy ,Kidney Stones, Urological Surgery