Comparative Study of Complications of Single-Tract versus Multi-Tract Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Using the Modified...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Nephrolithiasis Management

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a standard procedure for kidney stones.
• Limited data exists on standardized complication evaluation comparing single-tract and multi-tract PCNL.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the complication profiles of single-tract versus multi-tract PCNL.
• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of different PCNL tract approaches.

Main Methods:

• An observational follow-up study of 50 patients undergoing PCNL.
• Complications were documented and classified using the modified Clavien system.
• Patients were divided into single-tract (28) and multi-tract (22) PCNL groups.

Main Results:

• Multi-tract PCNL had a higher overall complication rate (100% vs. 71.4%), predominantly lower-grade (I and II).
• Single-tract PCNL showed a higher frequency of higher-grade complications (III and IV) requiring intervention or ICU care.
• Stone size was significantly larger in the multi-tract group (5.0 cm) compared to the single-tract group (3.3 cm).

Conclusions:

• Multi-tract PCNL is associated with more manageable, lower-grade complications.
• Single-tract PCNL presents a higher risk of severe complications needing advanced medical care.
• Multi-tract PCNL is effective and has acceptable morbidity for selected cases of large renal stones.