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The percutaneous nephrolithotomy global study: classification of complications.
Gaston Labate1, Pranjal Modi, Anthony Timoney
1Department of Urology , Urosalud, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) complications are mostly minor. Longer operative times and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores increase the risk of severe complications following PCNL.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a common procedure for kidney stone removal.
- Understanding postoperative complications is crucial for patient safety and procedural optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate postoperative complications associated with PCNL.
- To identify factors influencing the risk of these complications using the CROES PCNL Global Study database.
Main Methods:
- Prospective data collection from consecutive PCNL patients globally over one year.
- Complications were classified using the modified Clavien classification system.
Main Results:
- 20.5% of 5724 patients experienced complications, most commonly fever and bleeding.
- Majority of complications (54.0%) were Clavien grade I; operative time and ASA score predicted higher complication severity.
- Increased complication risk was linked to ASA physical status (III/IV), anticoagulant use, positive urine cultures, and cardiovascular disease.
Conclusions:
- Most PCNL-related complications are minor.
- Longer operative time and higher ASA scores are significant predictors of severe postoperative complications.
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