Definition

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or nephrolithotripsy is a procedure to remove kidney stones from the kidney through a small incision in the skin.

Nephrolithotomy is the removal of an intact stone.

Nephrolithotripsy is the removal of a stone that had been broken apart with other treatments, usually high frequency sound waves.

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Reasons for Procedure

These procedures are done to remove large kidney stones. Larger stone can cause damage and blockages as they pass through the urinary system. This procedure will remove them before they cause damage.

Other treatments are often tried first to manage kidney stones. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or nephrolithotripsy may be chosen when:

• Kidney stones are large or irregular in shape
• Infection is present
• Other treatment was not able to reduce or break-up kidney stones or cannot be done

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review possible problems, like:

• Blood clots
• Blood in the urine
• Obstruction in the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder
• Injury to nearby organs
• Remaining stone fragments
• Infection
• Fluid in the chest
• Reduced kidney function
• Recurrence of kidney stones
• Reaction to anesthesia

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce risk of problems, such as:

• Quit smoking
• Do not drink before procedure
• Manage chronic disease such as diabetes or obesity

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if any of these occur:

• Pain that you cannot control with the medications you were given
• Redness, warmth, excessive bleeding or drainage from the incision site
• Signs of infection, including fever or chills
• Problems with urinating that lasts beyond what you or your doctor expect
• Increased blood clots in your urine
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• New or unexpected symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.