Understanding Mini PCNL

Kidney stones that are too large for medications or shock wave therapy (ESWL) require surgical removal. Mini PCNL is an advanced keyhole surgery where a small tube (mini access sheath) is inserted into the kidney to remove stones through a minimally invasive approach.

Who Needs Mini PCNL?

Mini PCNL is recommended for patients with:

• Kidney stones larger than 1.5 cm that cannot pass naturally.
  
  
• Hard or multiple kidney stones resistant to ESWL or medications.
  
  
• Obstructive stones causing severe pain, infections, or kidney damage.
  
  
• Recurrent kidney stones requiring surgical intervention.
  
  
• Patients needing a minimally invasive alternative to traditional PCNL.
  
  

Advantages of Mini PCNL Over Traditional PCNL

• Smaller incisions (5-10 mm vs. 20-30 mm in standard PCNL).
  
  
• Reduced pain and minimal blood loss.
  
  
• Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay (24-48 hours).
  
  
• Lower risk of complications such as kidney injury or infection.
  
  
• Safe and effective for all stone types and locations.
  
  

Step-by-Step Mini PCNL Procedure

1. Anesthesia Administration – General or spinal anesthesia is used for a pain-free procedure.
   
   
2. Insertion of Guidewire – A small needle is used to access the kidney under ultrasound/X-ray guidance.
   
   
3. Mini Access Sheath Placement – A tiny sheath (5-10 mm) is inserted to create a pathway for the scope.
   
   
4. Stone Fragmentation – Laser or ultrasound lithotripsy breaks the kidney stone into small fragments.
   
   
5. Stone Removal – Stone fragments are extracted using a suction device or forceps.
   
   
6. Catheter or Stent Placement (if needed) – A temporary stent may be inserted to ensure smooth urine flow.
   
   
7. Closure and Recovery – The incision is closed with minimal sutures, and the patient is monitored post-surgery.
   
   

Recovery After Mini PCNL

• Most patients are discharged within 24-48 hours.
  
  
• Mild discomfort or blood in urine may occur for a few days.
  
  
• Hydration is essential to flush out any remaining stone fragments.
  
  
• Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks.
  
  
• Follow-up imaging tests may be needed to confirm stone clearance.
  
  

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Mini PCNL is a safe and effective procedure, but minor side effects may include:

• Temporary hematuria (blood in urine) due to kidney access.
  
  
• Mild flank pain that subsides within days.
  
  
• Urinary infections (preventable with antibiotics).
  
  
• Rare risk of residual stones, requiring additional procedures.
  
  

Preventing Future Kidney Stones

• Drink 2-3 liters of water daily to prevent stone formation.
  
  
• Reduce salt, oxalate-rich foods, and animal protein in the diet.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle.
• Regular follow-ups and urine tests to monitor kidney health.

Get advanced Mini PCNL kidney stone surgery in Agra with Dr. Shwetank Prakash, a specialist in minimally invasive kidney stone removal.

Quick recovery, minimal pain, and high success rates. Book your consultation today!