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.
