Chronic empyema thoracis after percutaneous nephrolithotomy

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Urology

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the primary treatment for large or complex kidney stones.
• While generally safe, PCNL carries a risk of complications, including rare but severe pleural injuries.

Observation:

• Pleural injury during or immediately after PCNL is an infrequent but serious adverse event.
• Such injuries can progress to chronic empyema thoracis, a significant thoracic complication.

Findings:

• This report details the first-ever documented case of pleural injury leading to chronic empyema thoracis after PCNL.
• The case highlights a previously unreported severe complication of this common urological procedure.

Implications:

• Awareness of this potential complication is crucial for urologists performing PCNL.
• Prompt recognition and management of pleural injury post-PCNL may prevent progression to chronic empyema, improving patient outcomes.