OBJECTIVESTo introduce the method to monitor intrapelvic perfusion pressure during minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPCNL), and to observe the effect of high pressure intrapelvic perfusion on recovery.

METHODSThe end of F5 ureteral catheter and aseptic transducer were connected by self-made connecter. During the operation, 46 renal calculi cases were monitored, and the early complication, such as fever, pain index, drop of hemoglobin, the stone-free rate and hospital stay were investigated. And the relationship between the variation of pressure and recovery was studied.

RESULTSIntrapelvic perfusion pressure ranged from 3 mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa) to 50 mm Hg during the course of MPCNL. The definition of high pressure was the time of the pressure more than 30 mm Hg not less than 10 min. Postoperative fever rate, pain index, drop of hemoglobin and hospital stay in the high pressure were significantly higher than low pressure group (P< or =0.05). There was no difference of the stone-free rate in two groups.

CONCLUSIONSDuring the course of MPCNL intrapelvic perfusion pressure should be monitor immediately. It should be careful to maintain the time of pressure more than 30 mm Hg less than 10 min for stable postoperative recovery.