Hearing the words “you need surgery” and “kidney stones” in the same sentence can be nerve-wracking. It can cause anxiety for patients, especially when they have to undergo a procedure such as PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy).
While it is satisfying to think about how they will finally get relief, a single question always pops up: “What about postoperative considerations? What happens after the surgery and what side effects should I be concerned about, if any?”
We’ll figure this out together—not using scary medical jargon, but by really simplifying things and explaining everything in detail.
First, What Is PCNL Surgery Exactly?
PCNL is an advanced surgical procedure that allows you to remove large or stubborn kidney stones that cannot be passed naturally or treated with some other simpler methods. As with any other form of surgery, the procedure involves some risks which are managed by expert hands through a small cut in your back. A surgeon inserts instruments to break and remove the stones and the procedure is termed PCNL which stands for ‘Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy.’ It’s efficient, effective, and often life-changing for those struggling with frequent stone pain.
What Happens in a PCNL Surgery?
Understanding the process calms a patient’s nerves, since knowing the steps eases anxiety. I have crafted steps in the form of a simple outline to follow for the procedure of PCNL.
1. Preparing and Setting up the Anesthesia
Depending on your case, you will be placed on general anesthesia (asleep) or you will be given a regional anesthesia (numb from the waist down). After you are made comfortable, the area surrounding the surgical site will get cleaned and surgical prep will commence.
2. Step 2 – Creating A Small Incision
The surgeon performs a small cut on your back, or incision which is one cm or less where the kidney is located. Ultrasound imaging or X-ray will aid in guiding the needle to the kidney and it will be inserted through the small cut.
3. Accessing The Stone In The Kidney
When the position is confirmed to be correct, a thin wire needs to be inserted and it will remain in place while being exposed from the needle. The special tube will be called the nephroscope. In this case, it will be gently dilated so it can reach and access the inside of the kidney.
4. Steps Following The Stone Removal
The stones will be removed with care. Once the stone is located by the surgeon, he will perform the removal through the nephroscope. There is a chance that the stone is broken into smaller pieces using laser or ultrasonic energy, if that is the case then tiny surgical tools will be used to remove the pieces.
5. Placement of Tubes (if necessary)
A nephrostomy tube may be inserted to drain urine or a DJ stent may be placed temporarily to assist with the flow from the kidney to the bladder for the purpose of healing.
6. Closing Up and Recovery
The cut is either sutured or left to heal by itself, and you will be moved to the recovery bay. In most cases, patients are monitored for at least 12 hours after surgery to check on recovery progress.
What Are the Possible Side Effects After PCNL?
Like any surgery, PCNL comes with it’s side effects such as discomfort or pain that need to be controlled over time. Each one of them qualifies as a postoperative experience. The good news? Most of them are manageable, temporary, and part of the natural healing process.
1. Mild Pain or Discomfort
It is normal to experience some discomfort at the area where the instruments were inserted. There may be some dull back pain which subsides in a few days with basic pain medication.
2. Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
This is one of the most frequent and short-lived impacts of undergoing PCNL. You may see urine that is pink or reddish, particularly during the first 24 to 48 hours. Unless the blood is considerable or lasting, there is usually no need to be anxious.
3. Fever or Infection
Because the urinary tract is a concern, there is a slight chance of contracting an infection. Your healthcare provider might prescribe some antibiotics so that this does not happen. However, if you experience chills or far more than normal body temperature, do not ignore it – Always a good approach to notify your care team earlier.
4. Urine Leakage from the Back
At times, a very small quantity of urine may leak from the site of entry. In particular, this tends to resolve by itself, most of the time after the nephrostomy tube (if placed) is taken off.
5. Fatigue and Slower Urine Flow
Feeling tired after surgery is entirely normal. Along with post-surgery tiredness, it can also take a few days for one’s body to bounce back and recover fully. Also, if there were stents or tubes put in place temporarily, one may notice changes in the pattern of urination.
Uncommon Yet Likely Side Effects OF PCNL
Let’s keep it real–every surgery has risks. For some patients, they are most likely to endure:
- Damage to adjacent tissues
- Profuse hemorrhage
- Additional operation if blunt post surgery stone remnants are present
But keep in mind: those are the exceptions, not the norm. Urologists do everything possible to avoid encountering them.
What To Do To Enhance Recovery After PCNL?
- Drink lots of water – Increases the chances of stone debris being expelled from the body.
- Do as little moving as possible – Your body is a machine, so it requires maintenance.
- Do not skip routine visits – The physician checks the progress of changes, as well as the removal of drainage tubes, if they were implemented.
- Tell your doctor your case – If your care provider asks you for details about your problems, your answer can directly determine your recovery path.
Final Thoughts: Talk To Experts
PCNL remains one of the most efficient methods of dealing with large kidney stones. Although some effects may be included, a majority can be resolved and handled easily. What is important is to understand what needs to be done, have a good relationship with the physician, and most important allow yourself the time for recovery.
Dr. Deepanshu Gupta not only demonstrates warmth and care but also continues to surpass expectations in the fields of urology and men’s health. His reputation as a leading health care professional in India, and especially in Gurgaon and Delhi NCR, can be attributed to his extensive experience in surgeries, low-cost treatment options, and patient-centered practices. Skill and serve aren’t always paired together, but they are in the hands of Dr. Gupta, who is adept at treating kidney stones, prostate problems, and even male infertility.
If you’re coming in for a PCNL procedure, or have a loved one who is, take a moment to breathe. Relief and a return to your normal routines is just around the corner! We’d expect you to full recover with the right treats before you know it.