Pain management in percutaneous nephrolithotomy — an approach rooted in pathophysiology

Pain related to percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is multifactorial and poorly elucidated. However, understanding the pathophysiology of pain can enable a practical approach to pain management, which can be tailored to each patient. A number of potential mechanisms underlie pain perception in PCNL, and these mechanisms can be leveraged at various points on the perioperative care pathway. These interventions provide opportunities for modulation of pain associated with PCNL but must take into account various technical, pharmacological and patient-related considerations. Technical considerations include the influence of percutaneous access, stone removal and drainage techniques. Pharmacological aspects include the use of various analgesics and anaesthesia approaches. Patient factors include consideration of the biopsychosocial model in pain experience to understand each individual’s response to pain. By understanding the contemporary evidence surrounding the physiology of postoperative pain and identifying tangible intervention points, we can seek to mitigate postoperative pain in patients undergoing PCNL.