Are Nephrostomy and Ureteral Stent Necessary after Multi-Access Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy?

Totally tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a well-established technique used in single -access procedure nevertheless these results challenge the multi-access PCNL as a contra-indication to application of this technique.

To compare complication rates and safety of use of this technique after multi-access PCNL.

A Total of 130 patients with renal stones were enrolled in this cohort study. Totally tubeless PCNL with single access (Group A, n = 70) and multi-access (Group B, n = 60) were done and bleedings were assessed by measuring hemoglobin (Hb) drop, blood transfusion rate and need for angioembolization besides leakage rates which were also recorded.

In the 130 patients who underwent totally tubeless PCNL, no leakage from puncture site nor angioembolization cases were identified. There was no significant statistical differences between 2 groups regarding Hb drop (1.91 in single access versus 2.20 in multi-access), transfusion rate and length of hospital stay (p > 0.05). Stone-free rate was increased from 91% in single access to 97% in multi access by adding percutaneous access sites (from 91% in single access to 97% in multi-access).

Multi-access totally tubeless PCNL seems feasible and has comparable complication rates including Hb drop besides providing the advantage of higher stone-free rates using multi-access tracts.