Journal of endourology
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Journal of endourology · Aug 2010
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyUltrasonography-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the flank position versus fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the prone position: a comparative study.
Gaining access to the pyelocaliceal system in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is routinely performed using fluoroscopic guidance with the patient in a prone position. We compared ultrasonography-guided access for PCNL with the patient in the flank position with conventional fluoroscopy-guided access. ⋯ Ultrasonography has a high ability to access calculi more easily through the pyelocaliceal system with the patient in the flank position. It is convenient for urologists, and the return to the supine position is possible easily when necessary. Besides, PCNL under ultrasonography guidance and with the patient in the flank position has high success rates and limited complications; hence, we recommend this technique as an alternative procedure for fluoroscopy-guided PCNL.