Stone Surgery
PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy)
Keyhole surgery for large or complex kidney stones through a small tract from the back directly into the kidney.
01What is it?
PCNL removes large stones through a ~1 cm tract created from the skin of the back into the kidney, through which stones are broken and extracted.
02When is treatment considered?
Generally considered for stones larger than about 2 cm, staghorn (branched) stones, or stones that have failed other approaches.
03Available treatment options
Alternatives for large stones include staged RIRS or, rarely today, open surgery. ESWL alone is usually insufficient for very large stones.
04What does the procedure involve?
Under general anaesthesia, imaging guides a small tract into the kidney. A nephroscope is passed through it and the stone is broken and removed. A tube may be left in the kidney briefly afterwards.
05Expected recovery
Hospital stay is typically 1–3 days. Most patients resume light activity within 1–2 weeks and heavier work after 3–4 weeks.
06Common risks
Bleeding (occasionally needing further treatment), infection or fever, urine leak, injury to surrounding organs (rare), and residual stones needing a second sitting.
07When to seek medical attention
Fever, heavy blood in urine, or pain not controlled by prescribed medication after discharge need prompt review.
08Frequently asked questions
This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an individual medical consultation. Diagnosis and treatment should be based on assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.