Percutaneous Intrarenal Electrosurgery

Abstract

A 16F nephroscope with a 5F cutting element was used for percutaneous removal of kidney stones in 10 patients in whom an open operation otherwise would have been necessary. Stone removal was accomplished via percutaneous incision of narrowed infundibula, caliceal diverticula and the ureteropelvic junction. A thorough knowledge of renal vasculature, meticulous care and fluoroscopic control are necessary for successful percutaneous intrarenal electrosurgery.