Massive haemorrhage presenting as a complication after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

Authors describe and discuss cases of massive haemorrhage after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. In 10 (0.3%) of 3080 patients who underwent PCNL massive haemorrhage from renal fistula drain or urinary bladder was observed. Renal arteriography was performed in this group of patients which revealed arteriovenous fistulae in 4 patients and aneurysms of renal artery branches in 2. In 4 patients arteriography did not reveal haemorrhage. In one patient nephrectomy was necessary to stop the haemorrhage.