PCN (PERCUTANEOUS NEPHROSTOMY) TUBE INSERTION

What is nephrostomy tube:

• A nephrostomy tube is a small flexible tube placed through the lower back into the kidney to drain urine. A nephrostomy tube is inserted when there is an obstruction to the normal flow of urine.

Why it is necessary:

• The urine from a normal kidney drains through a narrow, muscular tube, the ureter, into the bladder. When that tube becomes blocked, for example by a stone or a blood clot, the kidney can rapidly become affected. 
• It is also useful as a urinary diversion in an attempt to heal conditions such as malignant/inflammatory fistula, urinary leak or fistulas resulting from trauma etc.

How it performed:

• This is a minimally invasive procedure done by interventional radiologist under local anaesthesia, using ultrasound and fluoroscopy guidance. 
• Patient can be able to carry on a normal life with the catheter in place.

What are benefits:

• Under USG and fluro guidance, this procedure is quite safe and effective.
• It is a day care procedure with minimum pain and without any stitches.

What are the precaution to be taken by patient:

• It is important that not try to make any sudden movements, for example getting up out of a chair.
• The bag needs to be emptied fairly frequently, so that it does not become too heavy.

Preparation for procedure:

• Few basic blood investigations like CBC, PT/INR, viral markers.
• Bring all the records including imaging record.
• Signing consent form.

What are risk:

• Very rare; Bleeding and infection.