Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in Neurogenic Bladder: Assessing Peri-Operative Morbidity

What is it about?

The management of patients with neurogenic bladder undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) was reviewed at a hospital over the past decade to assess peri-operative morbidity. A total of 298 PCNLs were performed, with 58 in patients with neurogenic bladder or urinary diversion, of which 33 were in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The study found that PCNL remains an acceptable treatment for upper tract stone disease in patients with neurogenic bladders, but its use in SCI patients may be limited due to complications. The study concluded that further research is needed to improve the understanding of PCNL in patients with neurogenic bladders.

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Why is it important?

This research is important as it provides valuable insights into the management of patients with neurogenic bladder undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). It helps to assess peri-operative morbidity and evaluates the safety and efficacy of PCNL as a treatment option for upper tract stone disease in patients with neurogenic bladders. The study also identifies the challenges in researching PCNL specifically within the neurogenic population and highlights the need for further research in this area. Key Takeaways: 1. PCNL remains an acceptably safe and efficacious treatment for upper tract stone disease in patients with neurogenic bladders. 2. The study included 298 PCNL performed at the hospital during the last decade, with 52 included patients having neurogenic bladder or urinary diversion. 3. The study identified a lack of existing prospective or randomised trials regarding PCNL specifically in the neurogenic bladder population, with limited existing studies and heterogeneity within their population. 4. The challenges in researching PCNL specifically within the neurogenic population are likely to persist, particularly as advances in ureteroscopy result in a declining overall number of PCNLs performed.