Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

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Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Kidney stones are a common health problem that can cause sharp, unbearable pain. While small stones often pass on their own, larger ones can get stuck and lead to serious health issues like infection, kidney damage, or blocked urine flow. That’s where percutaneous nephrolithotomy comes in—a trusted procedure for removing large kidney stones safely and effectively.

This guide will help you understand what percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is, when it’s needed, how it works, and what to expect before and after the surgery—especially if you’re considering getting it done in Chennai.

Kidney stones are hard minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. These stones vary in size—some are as small as a grain of sand, others as big as a golf ball. When stones grow large, they may not pass naturally through the urinary tract. In such cases, medical procedures like percutaneous nephrolithotomy are recommended.

PCNL is a modern surgical technique that helps remove stones directly from the kidney using a small incision in the back. It’s highly effective for stones that are:

Too big (usually larger than 2 cm)
Causing repeated infections
Blocking the flow of urine
Not responding to other treatments like medication or shockwave therapy

Why People Choose PCNL:

It’s less invasive than open surgery.
It allows complete removal of stones.
It has a quick recovery time.

If you’re planning for percutaneous nephrolithotomy in Chennai, you have access to highly qualified doctors and top hospitals that offer this treatment with great results.

What Is Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)?

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a surgical procedure used to remove large kidney stones directly from the kidney. The word “percutaneous” means “through the skin,” and “nephrolithotomy” means removing kidney stones.

Step-by-Step Process:

Small Incision: A small cut is made in your lower back.
Tube Insertion: A thin tube is inserted into the kidney.
Stone Removal: Special tools are passed through the tube to break and remove the stones.
Drainage Tube: A temporary tube is left in place to drain urine and ensure healing.

When Is PCNL Needed?

You may need PCNL surgery if:

You have a stone larger than 2 cm in size.
The stone is too hard or oddly shaped.
Other procedures, like ureteroscopy or shock wave therapy, failed.
The stone is blocking the kidney and causing pain or infection.

Types of Stones Treated:

Calcium oxalate stones
Cystine stones
Struvite (infection) stones
Uric acid stones

Benefits and Risks of PCNL Surgery

Benefits of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy:

High Success Rate: It removes 90-95% of large stones in a single procedure.
Minimally Invasive: Only a small incision, which means less pain.
Quick Recovery: Patients usually go home in 1–2 days.
Less Scarring: No large cut, so scars are tiny and heal fast.

Possible Risks (Though Rare):

Bleeding: Some patients may need a blood transfusion.
Infection: Though rare, there’s a chance of infection after the procedure.
Injury to Nearby Organs: Very uncommon but can happen.
Incomplete Stone Removal: Sometimes a second procedure may be needed.

Key Takeaways:

PCNL is safer and faster than open surgery.
Most people recover fully in a few weeks.
It’s best done in hospitals with experienced urologists and proper tools.

Taking Care After a Percutaneous Surgery For Kidney Stones

After Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy, recovery plays a big role in how well you heal and avoid problems.

Immediate Recovery:

You’ll be in the hospital for 1 to 2 days.
Doctors will check your urine and vitals.
A small tube (nephrostomy tube) may be left in place for drainage.
You may feel mild back pain and tiredness.

At Home:

Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
Take your antibiotics and painkillers as prescribed.
Avoid lifting heavy items or doing strenuous activities for 1-2 weeks.
Eat healthy, low-salt food to prevent future stones.

Watch Out For:

High fever or chills
Blood in urine that doesn’t improve
Trouble urinating
Swelling or pus around the incision

If you notice any of these, call your doctor immediately.

Treatment Procedure For Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Chennai

Chennai is home to some of the best hospitals and kidney specialists in India. If you are thinking about getting Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Chennai, you’re in the right place.

What To Expect:

Consultation: You’ll meet with a urologist who will review your scan and tests.
Pre-Surgery Prep: Blood work and imaging will be done.
Surgery: It usually takes 1–2 hours. You’ll be under general anesthesia.
Recovery: You’ll be monitored for 24–48 hours.

Why Choose Chennai:

Experienced urologists with a high success rate.
World-class hospitals with advanced surgical tools.
Affordable treatment plans compared to other cities.
Great follow-up care and support.

Chennai hospitals follow strict safety protocols and provide excellent patient care.

Preparing For The Surgery

Getting ready for percutaneous nephrolithotomy is just as important as the surgery itself. Your healthcare team will guide you on what to do before the procedure.

Things You’ll Need to Do:

Stop eating and drinking 8 hours before surgery.
Stop taking blood thinners like aspirin (your doctor will guide you).
Take the medications the doctor recommends.
Arrive early to the hospital for pre-op checks.

What To Discuss With Your Doctor:

Allergies (especially to anesthesia or medicines)
Past surgeries or chronic illnesses
Medications you are taking regularly
Any pain or symptoms you’re experiencing

Proper preparation makes the surgery safer and helps you recover faster.

Diagnosis Before PCNL Surgery in Chennai

Before your doctor schedules percutaneous nephrolithotomy, several tests will be done to confirm the size, location, and type of kidney stones.

Diagnostic Tests You May Need:

Urine Test: To check for infections or blood in the urine.
Blood Test: To check kidney function and detect any signs of infection.
CT Scan: A detailed image to see where the stones are and how big they are.
X-ray (KUB): Shows the shape and position of the stones.
Ultrasound: Gives a picture of your kidney and surrounding areas.

These tests help your doctor decide if PCNL is the right procedure for you and plan the surgery with precision.

Conclusion

Living with kidney stones can be painful and stressful, especially when they are large and don’t go away on their own. Thankfully, Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy is a safe and proven method to get rid of them. The procedure is quick, effective, and helps you return to a pain-free life.

If you’re in Chennai and looking for expert treatment, you’re in luck. With skilled doctors, great hospitals, and supportive care, Chennai is one of the best places for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in India, especially in Chennai, can range from ₹60,000 to ₹1,50,000 depending on the hospital, the surgeon’s experience, and the complexity of the case. Some hospitals offer all-inclusive packages, while others charge separately for surgery, room rent, tests, and medicines. It’s best to check with the hospital and ask if your health insurance can help cover some or all of the costs.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy is performed by a urologist—a doctor who specializes in treating problems related to the urinary system. Urologists are trained in surgeries that involve the kidney, bladder, and urinary tract. In Chennai, many urologists perform PCNL using advanced techniques and tools, ensuring a safe and quick recovery for their patients. Always choose a doctor with good experience in stone removal procedures.

Yes, definitely! Even with the rise of new treatments like laser lithotripsy or shock wave therapy, Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy is still the best option for large and complex kidney stones. It is highly effective, removes most stones in one go, and offers lasting relief. Doctors around the world continue to use PCNL, especially when the stones are too large or located deep in the kidney. It’s a reliable method that stands the test of time.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

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