Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

MINI PCNL (Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy)


Mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MINI PCNL) newer form of PCNL is called mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) because it is performed with a miniaturized nephroscope.

The minimal invasive percutaneous nephrolitholapaxy (MINI-PCNL), is an endoscopic procedure to remove kidney stones.

Benefits of MINI PCNL over Traditional PCNL Procedures


  • Low-risk procedure.
  • Small Puncture - Minimum blood loss.
  • Reduce operative time.
  • Minimum dilation of the tissue.
  • Minimum Trauma.
  • Lower operating time.
  • 99% effective in removing stones of 1 to 2.5 cm in size.
  • MINI PCNL used in Large Stone removal also.
  • Fast Recovery.
  • Minimum hospitalization.

Procedure of MINI PCNL


A special miniaturized Nephroscope used for Mini-PCNL. The surgery takes place under general anaesthesia.

After contrast medium imaging of the kidney tract on the effected side, the kidney is punctured directly through the skin in the area of the flank. The puncture is controlled via fluoroscopy and ultrasound.

A small hollow tube is placed directly through a patient’s back into the kidney through which instruments can then be used to fragment and extract the stone(s).

Using a special laser, the kidney stones are then broken up and washed out.

At the end of surgery, a catheter is placed in the kidney to secure the outward urine flow. This catheter can generally be removed without any pain a few days after surgery.