Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive surgery to remove large kidney stones through a small back incision using a nephroscope. It’s often recommended when other techniques like shockwave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy fail, especially for hard, large, or complex stones. PCNL ensures better outcomes with fewer complications for patients needing complete stone clearance in one session.
PCNL surgeries are categorized based on the instrument size used. Options include standard PCNL, mini-PCNL, ultra-mini PCNL, and micro-PCNL. The choice depends on the stone’s size, location, and the patient’s anatomy. Smaller PCNL variants offer less bleeding and faster recovery but may require longer procedure time. Your urologist will recommend the best technique based on your specific condition.
PCNL is needed when kidney stones are too large for natural passage or less invasive methods. Causes of stone formation include dehydration, high protein or oxalate intake, recurrent infections, obesity, metabolic disorders, or genetic predisposition. PCNL is especially suitable for complex, large, or multiple stones, or when previous attempts at stone removal were unsuccessful or incomplete.
Symptoms that may signal the need for PCNL include severe flank or back pain, blood in urine (hematuria), frequent urinary infections, and blockage in urine flow. If medications or other procedures fail to break or pass the stone, PCNL may be recommended. Recurrent kidney stones or complications from untreated stones also make patients suitable candidates for PCNL surgery.
Doctors use imaging tests such as CT scans, X-rays, or ultrasounds to locate kidney stones and assess their size and position. Blood and urine tests help evaluate kidney function and infection risk. If stones are large, multiple, or blocking urine flow, PCNL is often advised as the most effective and complete surgical solution to eliminate kidney stones.
Under general or spinal anesthesia, the surgeon makes a small incision in the back to insert a nephroscope into the kidney. The stones are visualized and broken using ultrasonic, pneumatic, or laser energy. Stone fragments are suctioned or removed with forceps. A drainage tube may be placed temporarily to help with healing and urine flow after surgery.
Consult a specialist if your symptoms persist despite medication or lifestyle changes. Warning signs include.
Severe, radiating back pain could indicate kidney stones blocking the urinary tract, requiring surgical removal for relief and prevention.
Red, pink, or brown-colored urine may suggest internal bleeding caused by sharp kidney stones irritating or damaging the urinary tract.
High fever and chills can mean a kidney infection caused by obstruction due to large or untreated stones in the urinary system
Kidney stones can cause nausea and vomiting by irritating nerves connected to the kidneys and disrupting normal urine drainage and function.
Straining, burning, or reduced urine flow might point to stones blocking the ureter or bladder, needing prompt medical evaluation and treatment.
Teeth whitening is a professional dental procedure designed to remove stains and discoloration, enhancing the brightness...
Comprehensive care for brain and spinal cord tumors with cutting-edge treatments, expert specialists, and personalized care...
Oculoplastics Surgery is a specialized surgical procedure focused on correcting medical or cosmetic conditions of the...
Wedge resection surgery is a minimally invasive lung procedure where a small, triangle-shaped portion of diseased...
Get expert help at every step from inquiry to consultation to hospital booking. Your care journey, simplified and supported.
Experience exceptional care with our expert team personalized attention, advanced treatments, and lasting health.
Connect with experienced PCNL specialists across India, whether you’re in a major city or a smaller town, ensuring expert care no matter your location.
Our support team is available 24/7 to guide you through booking, surgery prep, recovery tips, and any concerns, offering complete peace of mind.
Partnered only with NABH-accredited hospitals, ensuring top safety, infection control, and advanced facilities for all PCNL and kidney stone removal procedures.
From scheduling diagnostic tests to handling admission and discharge, we streamline the process so you can focus entirely on your health and recovery.
We speak your language—Hindi, English or more—to explain treatment details clearly, build trust, and make your journey smoother and stress-free.
Not sure about surgery? We arrange second opinions with top urologists so you can compare options and confidently choose your best treatment path.
Finally rid of constant infections and pain. Thanks to mediSuggest, my quality of life is back!
Sneha Kulkarni Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Surgery
The whole process felt smooth. They even helped me with my insurance claim without hassle.
Rohan Iyer Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Surgery
I was nervous, but the surgeon was experienced and kind. I’m grateful to mediSuggest for their help.
Kavita Sharma Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Surgery
They handled everything from lab tests to discharge. The PCNL procedure was successful and painless.
Rahul Mehta Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Surgery
Priya Nair
My surgery went smoothly and I felt cared for every step of the way. mediSuggest made a scary situation manageable. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Surgery
After struggling with large kidney stones, PCNL at mediSuggest changed everything. Quick recovery, great doctors, and full support throughout!
Ankit Verma Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Surgery
It’s a minimally invasive procedure to remove large or complex kidney stones using a small incision in the back.
No. It’s done under anesthesia. Mild discomfort may occur post-surgery but is manageable with medication.
Most patients recover within a week, but complete healing might take up to two weeks depending on your condition.
Like any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, or injury to the kidney. These are rare when done by experienced surgeons.
Simply reach out via our website or helpline to schedule a consultation with a PCNL specialist near you.
