Percutaneous Nephrostomy
Effective drainage for severe kidney infections and obstructions, promoting rapid relief and healing.
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Non-Surgical Treatment
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Kidney Infection TreatmentSurgery Type
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Implant Type
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What happens in this surgery?
- A small incision is made in the skin over the kidney.
- Using ultrasound or fluoroscopy for guidance, a fine needle is advanced into the kidney's collecting system.
- A guidewire is then passed through the needle, and the needle is removed.
- A nephrostomy tube is threaded over the guidewire into the kidney and secured to the skin, allowing urine to drain into an external bag.
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Post Surgery Recovery
What to expect after your procedure
Following a Percutaneous Nephrostomy, patients typically have a short hospital stay, often overnight, for observation and pain management. You may experience some discomfort or mild pain at the insertion site, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. It's crucial to keep the nephrostomy site clean and dry, and you will receive detailed instructions on how to care for the tube and change dressings. Monitoring of urine output and signs of infection (such as fever, increased pain, or cloudy/foul-smelling urine) is essential. You will be advised on activity restrictions, often including avoiding strenuous exercise or heavy lifting, to prevent tube dislodgement. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to check the tube's function and address the underlying cause of the obstruction. The nephrostomy tube may be a temporary measure until the primary issue is resolved, or it may be required for a longer duration depending on your condition.
Hospital Stay
1–7 days
Varies by procedure
Initial Rest
1–2 weeks
Light activity only
Follow-up Visit
2–4 weeks
Wound check & review
Full Recovery
6–12 weeks
Back to normal activity
Recovery & Wellness Tips
- Undergo blood tests, including coagulation studies and kidney function tests, to assess overall health.
- Undergo imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to map the kidney's anatomy and identify the obstruction.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners, as these may need to be stopped temporarily.
- Fast for several hours (typically 6-8 hours) before the procedure, as instructed by your medical team.
- You may be given prophylactic antibiotics before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
