Residual air persists in the renal collecting system following percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Abstract

To determine the presence or absence of air in the renal collecting system 48 hours following percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). The study was based on a review of the records of the last 100 consecutive patients undergoing PCNL for stone extraction. Two urologists and a uroradiologist reviewed post-PCNL nephrostogram films and determined the presence or absence of air in the urinary tract. Nephrostography was routinely performed 48 hours after PCNL, and all films of the 100 patients were reviewed. Gas was detected in 98 (98%) of the 100 cases that appeared as gas pyelograms outlining the renal calyces. Of the 98 cases, 33 (34%) demonstrated gas in the upper calyx, 10 (10%) in the middle calyx, 12 (13%) in the lower calyx, and 43 (44%) in more than one calyx. Gas was not detected in the renal parenchyma or perirenal areas. Gas is present within the renal collecting system 48 hours after a percutaneous procedure. Prospective studies should be performed to document the amount of time needed for complete resolution of gas from the collecting system.