Complications of percutaneous nephrolithotomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) provides the highest stone-free rate after one session and low morbidity rates in cases of large or multiple renal calculi. The classification, management, and prevention of complications of PCNL are reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS: PCNL is a well tolerated and very effective procedure for the management of renal stones. Specific complications limit the surgical outcome of PCNL whereas the majority of the complications are resolving with conservative or minimally invasive management. Experience with the technique is important for minimizing complications. There is an ongoing effort to classify the complications and to achieve a consensus in reporting the complications and surgical outcome of the procedure. SUMMARY: The knowledge of risk factors, complications, and their management is important for every endourologist. Establishing of a PCNL-specific classification system for reporting outcomes and complications could set the basis for further improvement of the PCNL technique and outcomes.