Efficacy and safety of super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy using a combination of suction sheath and pneumatic lithotripsy: the Dhangadhi experience
摘要
Super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SMP) is a promising minimally invasive approach for upper tract stone management. However, evidence on its performance using suction sheath and pneumatic lithotripsy in resource-limited setting remains scarce. The main objective of this study is to examine the efficacy and safety of SMP done exclusively with this combination.
MethodsProspectively collected data of all eligible SMP cases done in two centers between March 2021 and February 2025 were retrospectively processed. After de-identification of the final data, descriptive and analytical statistics were used as appropriate. Regression models were then constructed to identify risk factors for complications.
ResultsTotal of 324 prone SMP procedures were performed on 319 patients. The mean stone volume, operating time and fluoroscopy beam-on time were 1473 mm3, 38 min, and 145 s respectively. The mean hemoglobin drop was 1.2 ± 0.9 gm% with 2.1% of patients requiring blood transfusion. Overall, stone-free rate was 96.9% at 1-month follow-up, minor complications (Clavien-Dindo ≤ II) being 13.4%, and major complications (Clavien-Dindo > II) being 2.2%. Multinomial regression analysis revealed operating time > 40 min, positive urine culture, and access through 10th intercostal space as significant predictors of complications. Limitation includes retrospective design, lack of computerized tomography for confirming stone-free status, and lack of intra-renal pressure monitoring.
ConclusionSMP using a combination of suction sheath and pneumatic lithotripsy is a safe and effective treatment option for selected cases with upper tract lithiasis in resource-limited settings, with high stone clearance and acceptable complication rates.