Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is accepted as the procedure of choice for the treatment of large or complex renal calculi. Introduced in 1976 the technique and the equipment have continually evolved increasing success rates and decreasing complications. This video concisely demonstrates patient positioning, targeting, needle placement and clearance of the renal stone under ultrasound guidance. Accurate localization and kidney puncture are key to success and the use of a dedicated biopsy transducer can increase precision, reduce radiation exposure and subsequently help reduce theatre time and patient complications.
PCNL procedure undertaken on a 63 year old man with a 3 cm stone and dilated renal pelvis by Mr Asad Abedin, Urological Surgeon, Russells Hall Hospital, West Midlands. |