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Percutaneous nephrolithotomy in patients aged 60 years or older
1Department of Urology, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey. ahmets@sim.net.tr
Journal of Endourology
|July 24, 2001
Summary
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is safe and effective for elderly patients, including those with solitary kidneys. This stone removal method shows similar success rates and complication profiles compared to younger patients.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Elderly patients present unique challenges for kidney stone treatment.
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive procedure for kidney stone removal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of PCNL in patients aged 60 years and older.
- To compare outcomes in elderly patients with those of younger individuals undergoing PCNL.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 28 PCNL procedures in patients aged 60+ (mean age 65.8).
- Comparison with 178 PCNL procedures in younger patients (December 1997 - December 1999).
- Evaluation of stone burden, stone-free rates, complications, and transfusion rates.
Main Results:
- Elderly patients had a higher incidence of solitary kidneys (29% vs 7%).
- Stone-free rates were similar: 89% in elderly vs 92% in younger patients.
- Transfusion rates (21.4% vs 18%) and complication rates were comparable between groups.
Conclusions:
- PCNL is a safe and effective treatment for kidney stones in elderly patients.
- The procedure is suitable even for elderly patients with solitary kidneys or complex calculi.
- Outcomes are comparable to younger patients, with no increased risk of complications or need for blood transfusion.