Is Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) as Safe and Effective in Children as Adults?

Abstract

Background: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is an endoscopic procedure of choice for the larger renal stones in both adult and children. Adequate literature is present regarding the efficacy of PCNL in clearing the adult kidney stones but limited data in our part of world is available to show noticeable renal stone clearance after PCNL with minimal complications in pediatric group. We set out to compare the outcomes of PCNL in both groups so we can recommend its efficacy and safety in pediatric group.

Methods: The prospective cross-sectional comparative study conducted in 86 patients who underwent PCNL for Renal Calculi. Patients were divided into two groups. Thirty patients were in the pediatric group and 56 patients in the adult group. Both groups were compared for the safety and efficacy of PCNL. Safety will be assessed through post-operative complications and graded according to Modified Clavien grading system. Efficacy was assessed through stone clearance. The aim of study is to determine the safety and efficacy of percutaneous nephrolithotomy in children so it can be done frequently and confidently without fear of complications and incomplete clearance of stones.

Results: When we compare children with adults for safety and efficacy of PCNL, no statistical significance was observed in both groups in terms of stone clearance and postoperative complications.

Conclusion: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is as safe and effective in pediatric age as adult age.

Keywords: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy, Renal Stones, modified Clavien grading system.