Overview
Percutaneous nephrostomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to drain urine from the kidney when normal urine flow is obstructed. It involves inserting a catheter directly into the kidney through the skin and renal pelvis under imaging guidance. This allows urine to bypass the obstruction and drain into an external collection bag. Percutaneous nephrostomy is often performed to relieve symptoms such as pain and infection caused by kidney stones, tumors, or other urinary tract obstructions.

Types of Percutaneous Nephrostomy
There are two main types of percutaneous nephrostomy procedures:

• Antegrade Nephrostomy: A catheter is inserted through the skin into the kidney and advanced into the renal pelvis, allowing urine to drain from the kidney to an external collection bag.
• Retrograde Nephrostomy: This procedure involves accessing the kidney through the bladder using a cystoscope and passing a guidewire into the ureter and kidney. A nephrostomy catheter is then advanced over the guidewire into the kidney to establish drainage.

Why Do You Need Percutaneous Nephrostomy?

• Urinary Tract Obstruction: Percutaneous nephrostomy is necessary when there is a blockage in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, tumors, or strictures, preventing urine from draining normally from the kidney.
• Hydronephrosis: This procedure may be needed to relieve pressure and swelling in the kidney due to obstruction caused by the backup of urine.
• Infection: It helps drain infected urine from the kidney, preventing the spread of infection and reducing the risk of complications such as sepsis.
• Palliative Care: In some cases of advanced cancer, percutaneous nephrostomy provides symptomatic relief from pain and discomfort associated with urinary obstruction.

How Are Patients Selected For The Procedure?
Patients undergo a thorough evaluation to determine their suitability for percutaneous nephrostomy. This assessment considers factors such as the cause and severity of the urinary tract obstruction, overall health status, and any contraindications to the procedure. Diagnostic imaging studies, such as CT scans or ultrasound, help identify the location and extent of the obstruction. Based on the individual patient's needs and circumstances, the decision to proceed with percutaneous nephrostomy is made collaboratively by a multidisciplinary team, including urologists, interventional radiologists, and nephrologists.

Risks And Benefits Associated With Percutaneous Nephrostomy
Risks of Percutaneous Nephrostomy:

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding at the insertion site or within the kidney.
• Infection: Infection may occur at the catheter insertion site or within the urinary tract.
• Discomfort: Patients may experience discomfort or pain during or after the procedure.
• Catheter-related Complications: Complications such as catheter dislodgement or blockage may occur, requiring intervention.

Benefits of Percutaneous Nephrostomy:

• Symptom Relief: Percutaneous nephrostomy provides relief from symptoms such as pain, swelling, and infection associated with urinary tract obstruction.
• Improved Kidney Function: It restores urinary drainage, helping improve kidney function and preventing further damage.
• Palliative Care: In cases of advanced cancer or end-stage kidney disease, percutaneous nephrostomy offers palliative relief from symptoms and improves quality of life.

Recovery And Rehabilitation After Percutaneous Nephrostomy
Recovery after percutaneous nephrostomy typically involves monitoring for complications such as bleeding, infection, or catheter-related issues. Patients may experience mild discomfort or pain at the insertion site, which can be managed with pain medications. Careful attention to hygiene around the catheter site is essential to prevent infection. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and to keep the catheter and drainage bag clean and secure. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess catheter function, monitor kidney function, and address concerns. Most patients resume normal activities with proper care within a few days to weeks.

What To Expect After A Percutaneous Nephrostomy?
After a percutaneous nephrostomy, patients can expect relief from symptoms such as pain, swelling, and infection associated with urinary tract obstruction. The catheter allows urine to drain from the kidney, reducing pressure and improving kidney function. Patients may experience mild discomfort or pain at the insertion site, which is managed with pain medications. Regular monitoring for complications such as bleeding or infection is essential. The drainage bag attached to the catheter collects urine, which should be emptied regularly and kept clean. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess catheter function, monitor kidney function, and address concerns.