Here’s what you need to know about PCNL Surgery with DJ Stenting

PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat kidney stones. It involves making a small incision in the patient’s back and using a thin tube called a nephroscope to remove the stones through the incision. In some cases, a DJ (Double J) stent may be placed during the surgery to help with urine drainage and prevent complications.

PCNL surgery has a high success rate and is generally safe, with a low risk of complications. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of. In this blog, we will go over everything you need to know about PCNL surgery with DJ stenting, including the procedure, benefits, risks, and cost of PCNL surgery in India.

What is PCNL surgery?

PCNL surgery is a procedure used to remove large kidney stones that are too big to pass naturally through the urinary tract. It is typically recommended for stones that are larger than 2cm in size, although it can also be used for smaller stones in certain cases.

During the surgery, the patient is given general anesthesia and positioned on their stomach or side. A small incision is made in the patient’s back, and a nephroscope (a thin tube with a camera at the end) is inserted through the incision and into the kidney. The camera allows the surgeon to see inside the kidney and locate the stone.

Once the stone is located, the surgeon will use a variety of instruments (such as a laser or ultrasound waves) to break the stone into smaller pieces. The pieces are then removed through the incision using forceps or a basket-like device.

In some cases, a DJ (Double J) stent may be placed during the surgery. A DJ stent is a small tube that is inserted through the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder) to help with urine drainage and prevent complications. The stent is made of a soft, flexible material and is usually left in place for several weeks after the surgery.

Benefits of PCNL surgery

There are several benefits to PCNL surgery, including:

High success rate: PCNL surgery has a success rate of around 95%, meaning that it is effective in removing kidney stones in most cases.

Minimally invasive: PCNL surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that it involves making a small incision rather than a large open incision. This can result in a shorter recovery time and fewer complications.

Quick procedure: PCNL surgery is typically a quick procedure, lasting anywhere from 1-2 hours.

Can be performed on an outpatient basis: In some cases, PCNL surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient can go home the same day as the surgery.

Risks and complications of PCNL Surgery

While PCNL surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of. These include:

Infection: There is a risk of infection with any surgery, and PCNL surgery is no exception. Symptoms of infection may include fever, redness or swelling at the incision site, and pain.

Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during and after the surgery, which can be serious if it is not controlled.

Injury to surrounding organs: There is a risk of injury to surrounding organs (such as the bladder or intestine) during the surgery.

To minimize these risks, many patients opt for a DJ stenting procedure to be performed during the PCNL surgery.

Cost of PCNL Surgery in India

The cost of PCNL surgery in India can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the hospital and location, and the experience of the surgeon. On average, the cost of PCNL surgery in India can range from Starting at $3,000. However, this price can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances of the patient.

It is important to note that many hospitals and clinics in India offer financing options or payment plans to help patients afford the cost of PCNL surgery. It is also worth considering the long-term benefits of the procedure, as it can help reduce the risk of recurrent kidney stones and the need for additional surgeries in the future.

Before deciding to undergo PCNL surgery in India, it is important to consult with a urologist or nephrologist to determine if it is the best course of treatment for your specific case. The doctor will consider factors such as the size and location of the kidney stones, the patient’s overall health and medical history, and any allergies or sensitivities.

It is also important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor, as well as any questions or concerns you may have. This will help you make an informed decision about whether PCNL surgery with DJ stenting is the right choice for you.

If you do decide to undergo PCNL surgery in India, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully before and after the procedure to ensure a successful outcome. This may include taking certain medications, avoiding certain activities or foods, and attending follow-up appointments.

Overall, PCNL surgery with DJ stenting is a safe and effective option for the treatment of kidney stones in India. It can help reduce the risk of complications and improve the long-term health of the patient. However, as with any medical procedure, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits and to discuss them with a qualified medical professional before making a decision.