Stone Removal – URSL/ PCNL

What is Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)?

The crystallisation of the chemical compounds in the urine can create kidney stones in the long run. PCNL is a surgical procedure that removes large and dense renal stones when minor removal methods like shock waves or ureteroscopy are impossible.

Surgical Procedure

The patient lies down flat on the stomach under general anaesthesia. The surgery begins with a 1 cm incision on the back of the patient, near the flank area.

The doctor then inserts a needle into the kidney, using X-rays to guide them. Later they insert a telescope to view and remove the renal stones. If necessary large stone stones are split into smaller parts using laser devices like lithotripters.

The PCNL stone removal method involves milder pains and shorter hospital stays than traditional open stone surgery. Usually, it takes 1-2 hours to complete the surgical procedure.