Almost Totally Tubeless Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Further Evolution of the Technique

ABSTRACT Background and Objectives: There is renewed interest in the concept of foregoing placement of the postoperative nephrostomy tube (PNT) after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) with the intent of reducing postoperative discomfort and hospital stay. We have omitted the PNT and placed an internal ureteral stent or externalized ureteral catheter after PCNL in selected patients. We reviewed our experience in order to assess the efficacy and safety of this practice. Patients and Methods: Primary PCNL was performed in 26 renal units in 21 patients (5 bilateral PCNL, 4 of which were simultaneous) by one surgeon at the University of Michigan and the Ann Arbor Veterans Affairs Medical Center. A postoperative nephrostomy tube was placed if the stone burden was >3 cm, more than one access site was used, the renal anatomy was obstructive, significant bleeding or perforation was noted, or a second look was required. Results: No PNT was placed in 10 renal units in 8 patients (no-PNT group). In six no-PNT kidne...