IAU Percutaneous Nephrolithotripsy Study

During the past 10-15 years, important advancements have been witnessed in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) techniques and instrumentation. The development of miniaturized PCNL techniques and modern laser technologies has contributed to lower complication rates, alongside changes in exiting strategies and postoperative drainage protocols. Ultrasound is increasingly utilized to create percutaneous access, and many medical centers have transitioned to the supine position for PCNL or perform Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS). All these developments have helped to individualize treatment strategies and to improve clinical outcomes for patients. However, there remains an ongoing discussion regarding the optimal indications and limitations of the different miniaturized PCNL techniques compared to standard PCNL and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS).

This prospective observational study is organized under the auspices of the International Alliance of Urolithiasis (IAU) and focuses on the contemporary indications, surgical techniques, instrumentation, exiting strategies, efficacy, and risk factors for intraoperative and postoperative complications of PCNL. Participating investigators will collect data on the PCNL procedures performed in their respective clinical centers prospectively for a period of 12-18 months. The study will be initiated in each clinical center following formal approval from the IAU Scientific Committee, which will also announce the conclusion of the study.