New Treatment Option for Kidney Stones

The Holly Private Hospital offers new treatment option for patients with kidney stones

Urologists at The Holly Private Hospital are now offering the Ultra Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedure which is an alternative treatment option for patients with kidney stones. The Ultra Mini PCNL is a modification to the standard PCNL procedure and involves making a small hole into the kidney through the skin. A laser is then used to break up and wash out the stones. It avoids using the ureter (the tube that propels urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and the use of ureteric stents (narrow tubes inserted into the ureter) which gives a much more comfortable experience for the patient.

Consultant Urologist Stuart Graham carried out the first Ultra Mini PCNL procedure at The Holly Private Hospital with the help of Consultant Radiologist Dr Sandeep Pathak in January this year. Speaking about the procedure, Mr Graham said:

“This is a great alternative to the standard procedure. It works really well for stones in the bottom of the kidney. People go back to normal activity more quickly than a normal PCNL. I’m delighted that we can offer it at The Holly Private Hospital.”

How does Ultra Mini PCNL work?
Working in partnership, the Consultant Urologist and Radiologist insert a very slim tube into the kidney through the skin and a telescope is passed through this to see inside the kidney. A laser is then used to break up the stone, and fluid then washes out the stone pieces. A stitch is put in to close the skin incision and a dressing placed.

Benefits of Ultra Mini PCNL
Many patients will prefer the Ultra Mini PCNL treatment to the traditional PCNL procedure because:

• It is less invasive, e.g. avoids using the ureter and the use of ureteric stents.
• There is less recovery time with this procedure. Only requires a one-night stay in hospital.
• People go back to normal activity more quickly than after a normal PCNL.

Who is a Candidate for the Ultra Mini PCNL procedure?
Patients with stones in the lower part of the kidney and those who wish to avoid ureteric surgery.

You can read more about kidney stones here 

How can I book this procedure?

The Ultra Mini PCNL is now available at The Holly Private Hospital with Consultant Urologist Mr Stuart Graham.

To book an appointment for a consultation please telephone our friendly appointments team on 020 8936 1201.

For information on self-pay prices please call 020 8936 1157.