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Published on: July 8, 2025
[Learning of percutaneous nephrolithotomy in supine position. An observational multicenter study]
J H Amón1, D Pérez Fentes, L Resel
1Hospital Universitario, Río Hortega, Valladolid, España. amonsesmero@gmail.com
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) in the supine position demonstrates effectiveness and safety comparable to the prone position for kidney stone removal. Experience significantly reduces operative time and major complications, indicating a manageable learning curve for this procedure.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Nephrolithiasis Management
Context:
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) is a key procedure for kidney stone treatment.
- The supine position for PNL offers potential advantages in patient positioning and accessibility.
- Comparative data on PNL in the supine versus prone position is crucial for surgical practice.
Purpose:
- To prospectively evaluate the outcomes and complications of PNL performed in the supine position.
- To assess the learning curve and the impact of surgical experience on PNL results in the supine position.
- To compare supine PNL outcomes with existing literature data for prone PNL.
Summary:
- A multicenter study analyzed 335 supine PNL cases, comparing experienced (>50 cases) and novice urologists.
- Success rates (69.6% stone-free) and overall complication rates (25.4%) were similar between groups.
- Experienced urologists had shorter operative times (106.6 vs. 124.9 min) and fewer major complications.
Impact:
- Supine PNL is gaining traction, showing efficacy and safety comparable to prone PNL.
- The procedure has a modest learning curve, with outcomes improving with experience.
- Increased surgical experience is associated with a reduction in major complications, enhancing patient safety.
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Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure
Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography

