Outcomes of mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomies in children: a single centre experience

Introduction The aim of this study was to present to present our experiences with pediatric mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomies (MPNL) in our center. Material and methods A total of 85 MPNLs performed on 79 pediatric patients being treated for upper urinary tract stones from 2007 to 2017 were analyzed retrospectively in order to determine their safety, efficacy, and relevant outcomes. Results 85 MPNLs performed on 79 patients with a mean age of 6.58 (1–14) years were included in this study. The mean size of the stones was 1.99 (1–6.4) mm. A 17 Fr rigid pediatric nephroscope with a pneumatic intracorporeal lithotripsy was used through a 20 Fr access sheath. The stone-free rate was 87.1% at 1 month postoperatively. Mean operative time was 56.4 (20–120) min. Mean fluoroscopy screening time was 183.2 (40–510) sec. Average hospitalization duration was 4.78 (2–13) days. Auxiliary procedures were performed on 7 (8.2%) patients (5 extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, 2 re- percutaneous nephrolithotomy). The complication rate of these cases was 6.3% according to the modified Clavien Classification System. However, no major complications classified as Clavien IV–V were observed in the study group. Conclusions The outcomes of the contemporary analysis confirm that MNPL is a safe and efficient method of intervention resulting in a stone-free state in pediatric cases.