Percutaneous Endourologic Procedures in High-Risk Patients in the Lateral Decubitus Position Under Regional Anesthesia

Abstract

The full lateral position-while necessitating expertise and some learning for renal puncture from an unusual angle-is safe in medical high-risk patients. It can be safely performed using regional anesthesia, avoiding the risks of general anesthesia and allowing for patient-anesthetist communication throughout the procedure. Cardiac and respiratory parameters are improved, stable, and easily controlled. As opposed to the supine position, the awake patient is more comfortable, and morbid obesity is not a problem.