The role of percutaneous nephrostomy in malignant ureteric obstruction

Abstract

In the presence of malignant ureteric obstruction, palliative percutaneous urinary diversion may be performed and is effective in improving renal function. However, long-term survival is limited and should, therefore, be performed only when the views and wishes of the patient and carers are taken into account and if there is a definitive treatment plan available for the patient as quality of life can be suboptimal.