PCNL for Large Kidney Stones, London
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy, known as PCNL, is a keyhole operation used to remove large or complex kidney stones. It gives the surgeon direct access to the kidney through a small opening in the back, allowing stones to be broken up and removed.
PCNL may be recommended when a stone is too large or complex for treatments such as shockwave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy.
What is PCNL?
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy, or PCNL, is a keyhole surgical procedure for removing large or complex kidney stones. A small tract is made through the skin of the back into the kidney, allowing the surgeon to reach the stone directly.
Specialist instruments are passed through this tract to break the stone into smaller pieces and remove them. PCNL may be used for large stones, including staghorn stones that extend into different parts of the kidney, or stones that are unlikely to be cleared effectively with shockwave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy.
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic. It usually involves a hospital stay and a period of recovery. A temporary drainage tube may be left in place after surgery to help the kidney drain while it heals.
PCNL is reserved for stones where this approach is appropriate. Your consultant will use imaging to assess the size, position and complexity of your stone, then explain whether PCNL or a less invasive option is likely to be more suitable.
Clearing large stones directly
PCNL allows the surgeon to access and remove a kidney stone through a small tract in the back.
Direct access to the kidney
A small tract is created through the skin of the back into the kidney, giving the surgeon direct access to the stone.
Break up and remove
Instruments are used to fragment the stone and remove the pieces through the tract during the procedure.
Treatment for large or complex stones
PCNL can be used when stones are too large, complex or difficult to treat using less invasive methods.
Who PCNL may suit
PCNL may be considered for people who have:
- Large kidney stones, including staghorn stones
- Complex stones within the kidney
- Stones unlikely to clear with shockwave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy
- Stones causing symptoms, blockage, recurrent infection or concern about kidney function
- A confirmed need for surgical stone removal following imaging and consultant assessment
What to expect
- Assessment
Imaging is used to confirm the size, location and complexity of your stone. Your consultant will discuss whether PCNL is appropriate and explain the potential benefits, risks and alternatives. - The surgery
PCNL is performed under general anaesthetic. A small tract is created into the kidney through the back, then the stone is broken into fragments and removed. - Recovery
A hospital stay is usually required. A temporary drainage tube or ureteric stent may be used, depending on the procedure and your recovery. Your consultant will provide individual guidance on pain relief, activity, follow-up imaging and prevention of future stones.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for PCNL in London?
A treatment option for larger stones
PCNL may be considered for stones that are too large or complex for shockwave treatment or ureteroscopy alone.
Keyhole rather than open surgery
The operation is performed through a small tract in the back, avoiding the larger incision once needed for open stone surgery.
Designed to clear the stone directly
PCNL gives the surgeon direct access to the kidney, allowing stone fragments to be removed during the procedure.
Consultant-led care in London
Your treatment and follow-up are led by a consultant urologist, with the procedure and recovery explained clearly at every stage.
From imaging to definitive treatment
Evaluation ensures that PCNL is the correct technique.
Not every large stone requires open surgery. PCNL achieves what once required a much larger operation but through a keyhole approach.
Treatment choice is based on stone size, complexity and overall kidney health.
Frequently asked questions
When is PCNL needed?
PCNL may be recommended for larger or more complex kidney stones, including staghorn stones, which are unlikely to be cleared effectively with shockwave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy.
Is PCNL major surgery?
PCNL is keyhole surgery performed under general anaesthetic. It is more involved than shockwave treatment or ureteroscopy and usually requires a hospital stay. However, it avoids the larger incision associated with traditional open stone surgery.
Will I need a drainage tube after PCNL?
A temporary drainage tube may be placed into the kidney after the operation. Some people may also have a ureteric stent. Your consultant will explain what may be needed in your circumstances.
How effective is PCNL?
PCNL is commonly used to treat large and complex kidney stones because it allows the stone to be accessed and removed directly. The chance of stone clearance depends on factors including the stone size, location, number and composition. Your consultant will discuss what is realistic for you.
Discuss treatment for a large kidney stone
For large or complex kidney stones, PCNL may be an appropriate treatment option. Our consultant urologists can review your imaging and explain the best next steps.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
