Superperc: A new technique in minimally-invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Nephrolithiasis Management

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) has evolved with newer minimally invasive techniques.
• Fragment migration and incomplete stone clearance remain concerns with current PCNL advancements.
• A novel suction-assisted PCNL technique, termed Superperc, is introduced to address these issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate the efficacy of the Superperc technique for percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
• To assess stone clearance rates and complication profiles of the Superperc method.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study included 52 consecutive patients undergoing PCNL with the Superperc technique.
• The procedure utilized a pediatric ureteroscope as a nephroscope and a specially designed sheath with a suction attachment.
• The Superperc technique involves a 10/12 F tract size and a dedicated suction sheath (Shah Sheath).

Main Results:

• The study included 52 patients (33 male, 19 female) with a mean age of 41.8 years and mean stone size of 19.11 mm.
• The mean operative time was 40.9 minutes, with 96.15% stone clearance rate.
• Complications were minimal, including mild fever in three patients and transient hematuria in one; no blood transfusions were required.

Conclusions:

• The Superperc technique is a successful new approach to minimally invasive PCNL.
• It requires minimal armamentarium modifications and offers the advantage of improved stone clearance.
• Superperc demonstrates potential for effective management of kidney stones with reduced residual fragments.