[Complications after PCNL: diagnosis and management].

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the standard treatment for large and staghorn kidney stones.
• Despite advancements, PCNL is associated with significant intraoperative and postoperative complications.
• Managing these complications remains a challenge for endourologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the spectrum of complications associated with PCNL.
• To provide recommendations for timely diagnosis of PCNL-related complications.
• To outline treatment algorithms for managing PCNL complications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of PCNL complications.
• Analysis of intraoperative and postoperative complication categories.
• Synthesis of diagnostic and management strategies.

Main Results:

• Intraoperative complications include bleeding, collecting system injury, visceral organ damage, pulmonary issues, thromboembolism, stone fragment migration, and incorrect tube placement.
• Postoperative complications encompass infection, sepsis, bleeding, urinary fistula, infundibular stenosis, and mortality.
• The review provides diagnostic criteria and treatment pathways for these complications.

Conclusions:

• Early recognition and management of PCNL complications are crucial for patient safety.
• Adherence to recommended diagnostic and treatment protocols can improve outcomes.
• This review serves as a guide for endourologists managing PCNL patients.