Improved nephrostomy tube can reduce percutaneous nephrolithotomy postoperative bleeding

Renal hemorrhage is one of the most common and worrisome complications of post-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This study aimed at evaluating the safety, effectiveness of utilization of the absorbable hemostatic gauze cover renal tract for hemorrhage of post-PCNL. The prospective study including 188 patients with upper urinary tract calculi was carried out in the department of Urology at Linyi People's Hospital from November 2011 to September 2013. All patients underwent PCNL procedures and they were divided into two groups randomly before the procedure. Group A (n=91) was indwelled a 16F catheter as nephrostomy tube at the end of the surgery, Group B (n=97) was indwelled a 14F catheter covered with absorbable hemostatic gauze for hemostasis. Blood loss was estimated based on the mass of hemoglobin in the draining liquid and urine during postoperative duration by HiCN method. The average blood loss was 25.76±23.99 g for Group A, and 14.25±6.87 g for Group B, respectively, with statistical difference by comparison (P<0.05). The delta hemoglobin was 16.24±10.98 mmol/L for Group A, and 10.71±5.57 mmol/L for Group B, respectively, also with statistical difference by comparison (P<0.05). Nephrostomy channel applications of absorbable hemostatic gauze after PCNL can significantly reduce postoperative bleeding. Utilizing the absorbable hemostatic gauze for post-PCNL hemorrhage is safe, effective and feasible.