Percutaneous nephrostomy. Aspects on applications and technique.

Percutaneous nephrostomy was performed in 32 patients: in 8 patients for permanent and in 24 for temporary drainage. The most common indication was obstruction of the distal ureter due to malignancy. Puncture of the renal pelvis was performed with the aid of fluoroscopy and/or ultrasound. Change to larger catheters was achieved using the Seldinger technique. Complications in the form of bleeding occurred in 5 patients and were in conjunction with repuncture after the initial catheter had slipped out, or occured in connection with change to larger catheters. With the routine use of ultrasound and specially designed catheters the method should be an effective alternative to operative nephrostomy also in the nonemergency patient.