Percutaneous nephrolithotomy

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Percutaneous nephrolithotomy

Left and right kidneys in person's back, with detail inside kidney showing kidney stone broken into pieces and being removed through tube.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy and nephrolithotripsy are procedures in which a small incision is made in a person's back to remove kidney stones. In both cases, the doctor puts a tube into the kidney and a scope through the tube. In nephrolithotomy, the doctor removes a stone through the tube. In nephrolithotripsy, the stone is broken up and the fragments of the stone are removed through the tube.

Current as of: April 9, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 9, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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