Technique and complications of percutaneous nephroscopy: experience with 557 patients in the supine position

Percutaneous nephroscopy is usually performed with the patient prone, which is uncomfortable for the patient and does not prevent damage to the colon. We assess the possibility of performing percutaneous nephroscopy using local anesthesia with the patient supine, and evaluate the advantages and complications.

A total of 557 consecutive percutaneous nephroscopies were attempted in 221 men and 242 women in the supine position. Patient age ranged from 8 to 87 years (mean 55.1). Patients are supine with a 3 l. serum bag below the ipsilateral flank. We catheterize the affected uretheral meatus with a 5F catheter through a flexible cystoscope. The tract is infiltrated with local anesthesia. The skin is punctured in the posterior axillary line which corresponds to approximately 1 cm. above the bag. We use an Alken set to dilate the tract to 30F, which is the size of the Amplatz sheath we commonly use.

Nephroscopy was performed in 519 cases (93.1%). Mean operation time was 85 minutes (range 15 to 240). Serious bleeding occurred in 3 cases. The colon was never damaged in patients treated in the supine position.

Percutaneous nephroscopy using local anesthesia with the patient supine is safe and easy. According to our experience the advantages in comfort to the patient and feasibility to the surgeon justify its use.