Emergency percutaneous nephrostomy.

The primary indication for the urgent percutaneous nephrostomy is to relieve an obstructed and infected renal collecting system (pyonephrosis). Percutaneous nephrostomy catheter placement is a safe procedure with a high technical success rate. This article will discuss all aspects regarding the emergent placement of nephrostomy catheters, including the indications, techniques, results, and complications. Differences between emergent and nonemergent placement of percutaneous nephrostomy catheters will also be addressed.