Improving Outcomes of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Access

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a particularly effective procedure, commonly used to treat patients with complex renal calculi. Critical to the success of the procedure is proper patient selection. A thorough preoperative evaluation will serve to optimize treatment outcome. Careful attention to intraoperative details facilitates a safe and efficient access to the collecting system and subsequent stone removal. Postoperative decisions regarding drainage tubes must be well thought out. Performing the procedure as a single stage event optimizes many of these essential points.