[Percutaneous extraction of renal lithiasis without radiological assistance].

OBJECTIVE

To describe the utility of posterior lumbotomy with a 3-4 cm incision through which the finger is inserted to palpate the kidney and perform percutaneous nephrolithotomy when radiological guidance is not available.

METHODS

24 selected patients underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Stone size ranged from 1-4 cm. The calculi were located in the renal pelvis (17 cases), lower calyx (6 cases), inferior pyelocalyceal level (2 cases) inferior and mid-calyceal level (1 case).

RESULTS

Calculi less than 1.5 cm were completely removed and ultrasonic lithotripsy and stone extraction with forceps were effective in the remaining cases. Twenty-four kidneys required a single stage procedure. Complications were observed in 12.5% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior lumbotomy with a 3-4 cm incision to palpate the kidney and perform percutaneous nephrolithotomy, is useful when radiological guidance is not available.