What is Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)?
Kidney stones are formed in the urinary tract due to the crystallization of chemical compounds in the urine. Sometimes the stones can be too large to pass on their own. In those cases, one of the most effective ways to treat these large stones is through a Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL).
At MedStar Health, we specialize in performing PCNLs. In fact, MedStar Washington Hospital Center is one of the few centers that offer outpatient tubeless mini percutaneous nephrolithotomies. This minimally invasive procedure allows our team of providers to remove kidney stones through tiny incisions and provides patients with quick recovery times, especially compared to treatments used in the past.
The main difference between the procedures is the size of the opening. The mini PCNL requires smaller instruments and smaller incisions. A smaller incision allows us to perform the procedure without leaving a tube in the back after the surgery. It also facilitates a better recovery, less pain, and post-operative discomfort. As a result, our patients are able to go home the day of the procedure.
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MedStar Washington Hospital Center
110 Irving St. NW Washington, DC 20010
