Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

[Notinagoodplace]

After having 4 (in 3yrs) stones removed using laser, and or basket via a scope, it seems I have another existing stone in the upper pole of my lft kidney measuring 10mm that can only be removed using PCNL. The stone is causing me persistant pain which I can no longer control or tolerate without very strong narcotics. Has anyone else had this surgery and if so, was it sucessfull?

[Notinagoodplace]

I read your post OMG 7 procedures...! I like your attitude too! I'm not a quitter either.  Thanks for the heads up on apple juice because I drink it reguarly and no doubt would have taken it into hospital with me...I will only drink water definately! of course apples and some fruits are acidic aren't they, nowonder you were in pain...! I'm just waiting on my surgeons decision based on the scans (I had first consult last week) after being told I would just have to learn to live with the pain by other doctors as it is inaccessable! He wants to review with his radiographer first, I have great faith in him...and told him through my tears he was my last hope, bless him!  Poor guy! If it's possible he'll fit me in asap! I'm praying it will be, cos the alternative is bleak!

[el_em_en_oh]

I've had 7 PCNL's over the last 19 years (most recently, in early 2009) and it was successful. I had a 17mm stone in my left kidney and there was NO WAY it was going to pass naturally, so the PCNL was the only option. VERY successful, although a bit uncomfortable on the recovery end.

No matter what they tell you, while you in the hospital recovering, DO NOT, i repeat, DO NOT, drink anything except water.

I tried drinking apple-juice a day or 2 after the procedure (while still in the hospital mind you), and my kidney went into fits of spasms that I can only describe as EXCRUCIATING. If you really want to feel what a '10' feels like on that 1-10 pain-scale, then by all means, drink something other than water. But while you have a nephrostomy-tube in (tube that will be in your back post-op to help with drainage), drink nothing but water.

I wouldn't sweat the procedure itself... it's a piece of cake. It's the recovery that's a b*tch. Take care, and post back if you need advice. Like I said, I've been through numerous PCNL's with good results, it's always the recovery that seems to not go so well.

Do your breathing excercises and try to get up and walk around as soon as you can. Even if it's only to the door and back. Set goals for your self.

1) Today I will put on my socks by myself.
2) today I will walk to the door and go to the bathroom, by myself.
3) Today I will get up, unassisted, and walk to the nurses station and back to the room (holding onto the wall, that is).
4) Today I will walk all the way to the end of the hall, and back to the room
5) Today, I will take a lap around the entire floor
6) etc, etc.

I used to pick a spot on the wall at the end of the hallway, and try my damndest to touch the spot on the wall before I was fully exhausted and couldn't go any further. Make sure you tell your nurses what you're doing so they can keep and eye on you, but getting up and moving around is the best thing post PCNL.

Let us know how you make out, my friend.