Percutaneous nephrolithotomy in early pregnancy.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Obstetrics
• Nephrology

Background:

• Urolithiasis during pregnancy often requires conservative management.
• Interventions like ureteric stents or nephrostomy tubes necessitate regular changes.
• Definitive stone removal is usually postponed until after delivery.

Observation:

• A pregnant patient presented with pyonephrosis at five weeks gestation.
• The condition was caused by a stone obstructing the right ureteropelvic junction.
• The patient opted for percutaneous nephrolithotomy instead of repeated tube changes.

Findings:

• Successful percutaneous nephrolithotomy was performed at 14 weeks gestation.
• Radiation exposure was limited to the kidney for 6 seconds.
• A healthy baby was delivered at term.

Implications:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a viable option for managing urolithiasis in early pregnancy.
• This approach can avoid repeated interventions and potential complications.
• It offers a safe alternative for pregnant patients seeking definitive stone treatment.