Percutaneous Nephrostolithotomy ( PCNL ) |
Nephrostolithotomy is a that uses a needle passed through the skin into the kidney to either remove the stone or break up the stone (lithotripsy). First, the doctor makes a small incision in the patient's back and creates a tract through the kidney to the stone.
Through the tract the doctor inserts a fiberoptic telescope called a nephroscope to either remove the stone or break it up into tiny pieces using a laser, ultrasound probe, or pneumatic device.
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NOTE: This information is not intended to substitute for a consultation with a urologist. It is offered to educate the patient and his or her family on the basis of urology conditions in order to get the most out of their office visits and consultations. Please see our disclaimer for additional information.
