Technique to facilitate percutaneous nephrostomy in non-obstructed kidneys.

A technique for performing antegrade pyelography during nephrotomy is described--puncture with a 21-gauge, 20-cm Cope needle, placement of a 0.018-inch SMG mandril "coat-hanger"-shaped guidewire, with the needle exchanged for a 3-French multi-sidehole dilator. Use of the 3-French dilator provides more security and less trauma to the renal pelvis; nephrotomy time is also curtailed. In 25 patients the technique was used successfully with 2 minor complications.