Minimally Invasive Kidney Stone Removal Options
Available at Jai Hospital, Gorakhpur under Dr. Rohit Ranjan, Urologist

For stones that are too large or not passing on their own, surgical removal becomes necessary. Thanks to modern technology, we now have multiple minimally invasive techniques that are safe, effective, and tailored to each patient’s condition.

�� Conservative Treatment – For Small Stones
Before considering surgery, small stones (usually <5 mm) can often be treated with:

• Medications to relieve pain and help the stone pass
• Increased fluid intake
• Regular monitoring through imaging

When the stone is not moving, causing symptoms, or is too large — surgery may be needed.

⚙️ Types of PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy)

PCNL involves removing kidney stones through a small opening in the back, using specialized instruments. The main difference lies in the size of the tract and instruments used, which affects the recovery, bleeding, and suitability for different stone sizes.

�� 1. Standard/Conventional PCNL
Access Tract Size: 24–30 Fr (largest)

• Best For: Very large stones (>2 cm), staghorn stones, hard or complex stones
• Hospital Stay: Usually 2–3 days

Advantages:

• Allows removal of large stones in one session
• Suitable for all types of stones, even when other methods fail
• Preferred when high stone burden is present

�� 2. Mini PCNL

• Access Tract Size: 14–20 Fr (medium)
• Best For: Medium-sized stones (1–2 cm)
• Hospital Stay: Usually 1–2 days

Advantages:

• Smaller instruments mean less trauma to kidney
• Less bleeding compared to standard PCNL
• Faster post-op recovery
• Suitable for adults and select pediatric cases

�� 3. UltraMini PCNL

• Access Tract Size: 11–13 Fr (smallest)
• Best For: Small to medium stones, especially in slim or pediatric patients
• Hospital Stay: Often 24 hours or less

Advantages:

• Minimal tissue damage
• Nearly scarless procedure
• Very low risk of bleeding

Ideal for patients who need a gentler approach, such as children or those with single kidneys

�� Key Differences at a Glance
Feature Standard PCNL Mini PCNL UltraMini PCNL
Tract Size 24–30 Fr 14–20 Fr 11–13 Fr
Stone Size Target Large/complex Medium (1–2 cm) Small to medium
Bleeding Risk Moderate Low Very Low
Tissue Damage More Less Minimal
Recovery Time Longer (2–3 days) Moderate (1–2 days) Short (Daycare)
Scar Visibility Small scar Minimal scar Barely visible
Pediatric Use Limited Select cases Highly suitable

�� Which One Is Right for You?

• The best method depends on:
• Size and location of the stone
• Your body structure and kidney anatomy
• Any previous surgeries or medical conditions

Dr. Rohit Ranjan will guide you to the safest and mo