Nephrostomy

Nephrostomy is a procedure that involves the placement of a small, flexible rubber tube (or catheter) through the skin into the kidney to drain urine. It is typically performed when a blockage prevents the normal flow of urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT).

Indications

Nephrostomy is often indicated in cases where there is obstruction to the outflow of urine from the kidneys. This can occur due to a variety of conditions, including:

• Kidney stones
• Tumors in the urinary tract
• Strictures or narrowing of the urinary tract
• Infection in the urinary tract
• Congenital anomalies of the urinary tract

Procedure

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT). The patient is positioned on their stomach, and the skin over the kidney is cleaned and numbed. A needle is then inserted through the skin and into the kidney, and a wire is passed through the needle into the kidney. The needle is removed, and a catheter is threaded over the wire and into the kidney. The wire is then removed, leaving the cathet

Complications

While nephrostomy is generally safe, it can sometimes lead to complications, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Injury to the kidney or surrounding structures
• Dislodgement or blockage of the catheter

Aftercare

After the procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period of time to ensure that the catheter is functioning properly and that there are no immediate complications. Patients are also given instructions on how to care for the catheter at home, including how to clean the area around the catheter and how to empty the urine collection bag.

See also

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
• Ureteral stenting

Nephrostomy Resources
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