Retrograde endoscopic-assisted percutaneous renal access: a novel "lasso" technique to achieve rapid secure access to...

Image-guided percutaneous renal access for placement of an access sheath for percutaneous nephrolithotomy can be a challenging procedure, especially in patients with nondilated collecting systems, obstructed infundibula (stones or stricture), or extreme body habitus. We describe our experience using ureteroscopy along with a zero-tip stone basket to facilitate a through-and-through (percutaneous-urethra) access to the collecting system.