What is the duration that nephrostomy (percutaneous renal catheter) tubes can remain in place?

From the Guidelines

Nephrostomy tubes can remain in place for at least 24 to 48 hours and in some cases up to 5 to 7 days.

Duration of Nephrostomy Tube Placement

• The duration of nephrostomy tube placement varies depending on the complexity of the stone and the patient's condition 1.
• Most complex stones require nephrostomy tube drainage for at least 24 to 48 hours 1.
• Some urologists remove the nephrostomy tube immediately, while others remove it within 24 to 48 hours or 5 to 7 days later 1.
• In cases of urinary tract obstruction, the nephrostomy catheter may remain in place until after delivery or definitive intervention can be performed 1.
• In general, the nephrostomy tube is left in place until the patient's condition stabilizes and further intervention can be performed, which can range from a few days to several weeks.

Clinical Considerations

• The decision to remove the nephrostomy tube is based on the patient's clinical condition, the presence of any complications, and the need for further intervention 1.
• The use of nephrostomy tubes is an important aspect of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) and can help to reduce postoperative morbidity and improve patient outcomes 1.

From the Research

Duration of Nephrostomy Tube Placement

The duration that nephrostomy tubes can remain in place varies depending on the patient's condition and the purpose of the tube placement.

• A study published in 2006 2 found that the median catheterization time for patients with urinary obstruction due to malignancy was 62 days.
• Another study published in 2000 3 reported a mean duration of drainage of 60 days, with the longest time being 11 months, in infants and children who underwent percutaneous nephrostomy.
• A study published in 2013 4 followed patients for 90 days after nephrostomy tube placement, but did not provide information on the maximum duration of tube placement.
• There is no specific information available on the maximum duration of nephrostomy tube placement, but it appears that tubes can be left in place for several weeks to months, depending on the patient's condition and the purpose of the tube placement.

Factors Affecting Duration of Nephrostomy Tube Placement

Several factors can affect the duration of nephrostomy tube placement, including:

• Patient's underlying condition, such as malignancy or obstruction 2
• Purpose of the tube placement, such as relief of obstruction or drainage of infection 3
• Presence of complications, such as infection or bleeding 4, 5
• Patient's overall health and prognosis 2