Laparoscopic Assisted PCNL
Laparoscopic-Assisted Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a hybrid surgical technique used for the removal of complex kidney stones. It combines the advantages of laparoscopy and PCNL to provide better access and visualization for stone removal, particularly in challenging cases. Here’s a detailed overview of the procedure:
Laparoscopic-Assisted PCNL is typically indicated for:
- Large or complex kidney stones, including staghorn calculi.
- Stones located in anatomically challenging locations within the kidney.
- Patients with abnormal kidney anatomy that makes traditional PCNL difficult.
- Cases where previous attempts at stone removal have failed.
Risks and Complications
- Bleeding requiring blood transfusion.
- Infection.
- Injury to adjacent organs or structures.
- Incomplete stone removal necessitating further treatment.
- Urine leakage around the nephrostomy tube site.
Advantages
- Improved access and visualization for complex stone removal.
- Effective for large and complex stones.
- Minimally invasive compared to open surgery.
Disadvantages
- More invasive than standard PCNL or ureteroscopic procedures.
- Requires specialized equipment and expertise.
- Longer operative time and recovery period compared to less invasive methods.
