Percutaneous Nephrostomy

Percutaneous drain placement into the kidney for urine evacuation when urinary tract is obstructed.

Drainage and Aspiration

Percutaneous Nephrostomy

Synonyms : percutaneous renal drain, ultrasound-guided nephrostomy

Background

Urinary tract obstruction (stone, tumor, stenosis) with renal dilation, obstructive pyelonephritis or obstructive renal failure.

Procedure

Under local anesthesia and US/fluoroscopic guidance, a drain is inserted through the back into dilated renal collecting system. Duration: 20-40 minutes.

Risks

Bleeding (hematuria), infection, drain displacement, organ injury.

Recovery

Drain connected to collection bag. Regular changes. Obstruction cause treatment.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).