Outcomes of ultraminipercutaneous nephrolithotomy in infants: our experiences at a single center in an endemic region.

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to contribute to the literature by sharing the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of infants (0-24months) who underwent ultra-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for kidney stones in our clinic. Infants under 24months old with kidney stones of 2cm and larger, who applied to our clinic between January 2018 and May 2023, were included in the study. The patients' demographic and clinical characteristics were obtained from the medical records. The collected data were analyzed retrospectively. A total of 26 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 17.3±3.90 (12-24) months. The mean operation time was 50.7±6.43min. The mean stone size was 2.66±0.59cm. Stone-free was achieved in 23 patients (88.5%). In one patient (3.8%) with residual fragments, SWL was performed, and in two patients (7.7%), RIRS was performed to achieve stone-free. Postoperatively, fever was observed in 3 patients (11.5%). There were no patients requiring blood transfusion. In experienced centers, ultra-mini-PNL performed by experienced surgeons is an effective and reliable treatment option for infants under 24months of age with kidney stones larger than 2cm. It provides high-stone clearance rates and low complication rates.