Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove kidney stones that are too large or complex to be treated with non-invasive methods. This technique has revolutionized the treatment of kidney stones, providing a more effective and less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery. National Library of Medicine states that percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a well-tolerated procedure with a low risk of major complication or death. 

Platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking percutaneous nephrolithotomy procedure to the global hospitals and facilitators for affordable and quality treatments on time.

This article explores the significance of PCNL, the procedure itself, and how medical tourism in Turkey, Malaysia, and India can provide accessible and high-quality care for patients seeking PCNL treatment.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: An Overview

Kidney stones are a common urological problem that can cause severe pain, discomfort, and complications if left untreated. PCNL has emerged as a significant treatment option for patients with large or complex kidney stones. PCNL offers several advantages, including high stone clearance rates, reduced risk of complications, shorter recovery time, and minimal scarring compared to open surgery.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves the following steps:

• Preoperative Evaluation: Prior to the surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough evaluation, including imaging tests such as CT scan or ultrasound, to determine the size, location, and complexity of the kidney stones.

• Access and Placement of Instruments: The surgeon makes a small incision in the patient’s back, creating a path to access the kidney. A specialized needle is then inserted to puncture the kidney and create a tract. A guide wire and dilators are used to enlarge the tract, allowing the passage of the nephroscope and other instruments.

• Stone Removal or Fragmentation: Once the nephroscope is inserted, the surgeon identifies and removes the stones using various techniques. Larger stones may be broken down into smaller pieces using laser lithotripsy, ultrasonic lithotripsy, or pneumatic lithotripsy for easier removal.

• Drainage and Closure: At the end of the procedure, a nephrostomy tube may be placed to drain urine and allow any residual fragments to pass. The incision is then closed using sutures or adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Cleveland Clinic states that percutaneous nephrolithotomy has a success rate of approximately 75% to 98%.

Medical tourism for percutaneous nephrolithotomy

Turkey, Malaysia, and India have emerged as preferred destinations for medical tourism, including PCNL procedures.

These medical tourism destinations attract experienced urologists who are well-versed in performing PCNL procedures. Patients can benefit from the expertise of these specialists, ensuring safe and effective treatment.

These countries boast advanced hospitals and medical centers equipped with the latest technology, ensuring optimal outcomes for PCNL procedures. Medical tourism in Turkey, Malaysia, and India often offers significant cost savings for PCNL procedures compared to Western countries.

Besides the medical advantages, medical tourism companies like Medditour also offer diverse cultural experiences and tourist attractions, allowing patients and their families to combine their treatment with memorable travel experiences.

In conclusion, percutaneous nephrolithotomy has revolutionized the treatment of large and complex kidney stones, providing patients with an effective and minimally invasive option. With the growth of medical tourism, countries like Turkey, Malaysia, and India have become attractive destinations for patients seeking PCNL procedures.