Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: an update

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy has undergone an evolution in technique and in equipment since its introduction in the late 1970s. This evolution continues today and is evidenced by the numerous publications about the technique. This review summarizes some of the important articles over the past year.

Although ureteroscopy and shock wave lithotripsy predominate in the treatment of urolithiasis, percutaneous nephrolithotomy continues to play an important role. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is advantageous as it causes minimal renal injury and maximizes stone clearance, especially in patients with complex stone disease. Although nephrostomy drainage tubes have always been placed after percutaneous nephrolithotomy, there may be specific indications for tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy continues to be an important part of the urologist's armamentarium. Recent studies have redefined the role of percutaneous nephrolithotomy and future studies will further delineate the importance of this procedure in the treatment of urolithiasis.