Name of the Procedure:

Renal Endoscopy through Established Nephrostomy or Pyelostomy with Removal of Foreign Body or Calculus

Summary

This procedure involves using a specialized scope to visually inspect the kidney, ureter, or bladder through an existing nephrostomy or pyelostomy. The goal is to find and remove foreign bodies or stones (calculi). The procedure can include flushing out the area (irrigation), medication delivery (instillation), or contrast imaging (ureteropyelography).

Purpose

Renal endoscopy is performed to:

• Remove kidney stones or other foreign objects.
• Alleviate blockages in the urinary tract.
• Prevent or treat infections and discomfort caused by these blockages.

Indications

• Visible blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Flank pain or renal colic due to kidney stones
• Impaired kidney function due to blockages

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjusting or temporarily halting certain medications, as instructed by the physician.
• Pre-procedure blood tests and imaging studies, such as a CT scan or ultrasound.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned properly, and anesthesia is administered.
2. The nephrostomy or pyelostomy site is sterilized.
3. An endoscope is inserted through the nephrostomy or pyelostomy tract.
4. The physician visualizes the kidney and associated structures.
5. Foreign bodies or stones are located and removed using specialized tools.
6. The area may be flushed with sterile fluid, or contrast may be injected for imaging.
7. The endoscope is carefully removed, and the nephrostomy or pyelostomy is secured.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on complexity.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's surgical suite or a specialized endoscopy unit.

Personnel

• Urologist or a specialized surgeon
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Scrub nurse or surgical technician
• Radiology technician, if imaging is involved

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Injury to surrounding organs
• Need for additional procedures if stones are fragmented
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Immediate relief from pain and symptoms caused by blockages.
• Prevention of further complications such as recurrent infections or kidney damage.
• Post-operative improvement in kidney function and reduced risk of urinary tract infections.

Recovery

• Post-procedure monitoring in a recovery room.
• Instructions regarding fluid intake, medications, and activity restrictions.
• Typically, restriction from heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few days.
• Follow-up appointments for imaging and assessment.

Alternatives

• Conservative management with medications.
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for non-invasive stone fragmentation.
• Surgical interventions like percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).
• Each option carries different risks and benefits, to be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort and pressure may be felt during the procedure if sedation is used.
• Possible mild pain in the treatment area post-procedure, managed with medication.
• The patient may experience slight hematuria (blood in urine) for a few days.
• Advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short recovery period.