Using and Choosing a Nephrostomy Tube after Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy for Large or Complex Stone Disease: A Treatment Strategy

Abstract

All patients having PCNL done for complex stone disease should have an NT placed; however, small (8.5F-10F) CP suffice in most cases and can provide greater patient comfort. To minimize pleural morbidity, tubeless upper-pole access should be considered if the kidney is judged to be stone free at the conclusion of PCNL. Circle loops are useful when multiple accesses are necessary, whereas REM are appropriate if access is difficult, gross residual stone remains, or pain is not an issue (i.e., spinal-cord injury).