OBJECTIVETo assess the safety and efficacy of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) using ureteroscope and pneumatic intracorporeal lithotripsy in the pediatric age group.

METHODSTwenty-two renal units in 15 patients underwent PCNL at our institute. The patients were all under 14 years old. The average age was 9 years (range 5-14 years). There were 7 bilateral, 8 multiple, and 5 staghorn calculi. The average calculus size was 2.0 (0.9-4.5) cm. The PCNL was done with an X ray-guided peripheral puncture, a planned staged approach in some cases, and minimal tract dilatation with the use of an ureteroscope and pneumatic intracorporeal lithotripsy.

RESULTSComplete stone clearance was achieved in 20 renal units, giving an overall clearance rate of 91%. Minor pyrexia (< 39 degrees C, < 2 days) was seen in 14 patients, whereas serious pyrexia was seen in 1. The average fall in hemoglobin was 10 g/L, but none of the patients required blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONSIt is safe and effective to cure pediatric urolithiasis with percutaneous nephrolithotomy using ureteroscope and pneumatic intracorporeal and pneumatic intracorporeal lithotripsy.