Abstract
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to compare mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) and standard PNL in management of renal stones (20–40 mm) with regard to the operative time, fluoroscopy time, blood loss, stone-free rate, and postoperative complications.
Subjects and Methods:
This prospective, randomized comparative study was carried out on 93 patients divided into two groups: Group A included 44 patients who underwent standard PNL, whereas Group B included 49 patients who underwent mini-PNL.
Results:
Standard PNL showed shorter operative time, yet longer hospitalization and nephrostomy and catheterization time. The mean drop in hemoglobin level was significantly lower in the mini-PNL group. In the 1st postoperative week, the stone-free rate was higher in the standard PNL group, but this was statistically insignificant. However, 4 weeks postoperatively, the stone-free rate was significantly higher in Group A. Postoperative pain and the need for postoperative analgesia were significantly higher in standard PNL patients.
Conclusions:
Standard PNL achieved a higher stone-free rate and shorter operative time, while mini-PNL had the advantage of shorter hospitalization time and lower incidence of pain and postoperative complications.
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