Synchronous twin track percutaneous nephrolithotomy: A preliminary experience

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) is standard for large renal calculi.
• Complete stone clearance is often challenging, requiring multiple procedures.
• Staged procedures and multiple tracks increase patient morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a synchronized, two-team, multi-track PCNL approach.
• To evaluate ergonomic and logistic factors of this synchronized technique.

Main Methods:

• Investigated a synchronized PCNL technique with two surgical teams.
• Employed two or more surgical tracks for simultaneous stone removal.
• Analyzed feasibility, ergonomic, and logistic aspects.

Main Results:

• The synchronized approach was investigated for its feasibility.
• Ergonomic and logistic issues were considered for tandem operations.

Conclusions:

• Synchronized, multi-track PCNL warrants further investigation for efficient large stone management.
• This technique may offer a solution to improve stone-free rates and reduce treatment burden.