Advantages of tubeless mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the treatment of preschool children under 3 years old

Abstract Background/Purpose Tubeless mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) for treating renal calculi was introduced in response to concerns over the use of adult nephrolithotomy apparatus in small children. However, it is unclear whether tubeless mini-PCNL (MPCNL) is of any benefit in the treatment of children. This study therefore aimed to assess the possible benefits of MPCNL, as compared to standard PCNL, in preschool children. Methods Seventy-eight preschool children under 3 years with renal calculi were randomized into two groups (PCNL and MPCNL). Operative time, hemoglobin decrease, blood transfusion rate, postoperative complications and length of hospital stay in the two groups were statistically compared. Results Recovery time was significantly shorter for patients receiving MPCNL than those treated with standard PCNL (4.6 versus 7.7 days, P < 0.05). Conclusions Treating preschool children with tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy has advantages over standard PCNL, including faster recovery and shorter hospital stay.