Interventional Radiology for Kidney Stones and Urinary Tract Reconstruction

Interventional radiology can be used to help with kidney stones and reconstruction of the urinary tract.

Dr. Pruna (Role of IR in Kidney Stone Management)

Percutaneous Nephrostomy Tube

A percutaneous nephrostomy tube is a tube placed through the back into the kidney. A drainage tube collects urine from the kidney and exits the back. This is typically connected to a bag which drains urine from the kidney. A percutaneous nephrostomy tube may be placed in preparation for a kidney stone surgery called percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL).

A percutaneous nephrostomy tube may also be placed in preparation for surgery of the kidney tube (ureter). This includes

-Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ obstruction) in preparation for reconstructive surgery called pyeloplasty
-Narrowing or stricture of the kidney tube (ureter) in preparation for reconstructive surgery
-Kidney swelling (hydronephrosis) due to tumor in preparation for further surgery or chemotherapy of the urinary tract

Nephroureteral Stent

A nephroureteral stent is a plastic tube that travels from the bladder, up through the kidney tube (ureter) through the kidney and out the back. This is typically placed to a drainage bag to collect the urine. A nephroureteral stent is typically placed in preparation for upcoming surgery along with urinary tract.

Suprapubic Tube

A suprapubic tube is a plastic tube placed in the bladder that exits out the belly wall. This is placed to a drainage bag to collect the urine. This is placed when there is a narrowing or blockage of the normal urinary pathway (urethra).

The Urology Group 2023. Do not duplicate without permission.