The Evaluation of Retrograde Nephrostomy in Over 200 Procedures

Abstract

In order to remove a renal calculus by percutaneous techniques, it is necessary to establish a percutaneous nephrostomy tract. In most centers, this is done by a radiologist using antegrade techniques, in which a specific calyx is punctured from the outside. Retrograde nephrostomy involves urologists creating their own nephrostomy tract, by first positioning a catheter in the appropriate calyx using a steerable wire passed up the ureter and then puncturing the renal parenchyma from the inside out. The advantages of retrograde nephrostomy placement by the urologist are that multi-specialist involvement is avoided, facilitating the scheduling of patient treatment, and the insertion of the nephrostomy tract and stone removal can be carried out under the same anesthetic.