Consultant-Led Complex Stone Surgery in Central London
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) at LSDC Healthcare is performed by consultant urological surgeons with specialist expertise in the management of large, complex, or recurrent kidney stones.
PCNL is the most effective treatment for stones that are too large or dense for shockwave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy, offering high stone clearance rates in a single procedure.
All care is delivered within a private, consultant-led, multidisciplinary setting in Central London, with close collaboration between urology, radiology, anaesthetics, and pathology.
What is Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)?
PCNL is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which kidney stones are removed through a small incision in the back, rather than via the urinary tract.
Under real time imaging guidance, a narrow tract is created directly into the kidney, allowing specialised instruments to fragment and extract stones safely and efficiently.
Who is PCNL for?
PCNL may be recommended for patients with:
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Large kidney stones (typically >2 cm)
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Staghorn calculi
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Multiple or complex stones
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Stones resistant to shockwave lithotripsy
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Stones causing recurrent infection or obstruction
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Anatomical factors limiting endoscopic access
Suitability is determined following detailed imaging and consultant assessment.
Clinical Benefits and Indications
Clinical benefits include:
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Highest stone-clearance rates for large stones
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Direct stone removal in a single procedure
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Reduced need for repeated interventions
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Relief of obstruction and infection risk
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Preservation of kidney function
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Established safety profile in expert hands
Key indications include:
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Large or complex renal calculi
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Failed less invasive stone treatments
How LSDC Delivers This Differently
PCNL at LSDC Healthcare is distinguished by:
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Consultant-led surgical planning and execution
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Precise image-guided access to minimise renal trauma
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Multidisciplinary peri-operative care
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Careful selection between standard, mini-, or ultra-mini PCNL where appropriate
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Structured post-operative imaging and follow-up
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Metabolic stone evaluation to reduce recurrence
Patients receive high-level, definitive stone management, not incremental procedures.
Diagnostics and Investigations Involved
Prior to PCNL, investigations typically include:
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CT scan to assess stone size, location, and anatomy
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Blood tests including renal function and clotting profile
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Urine culture to exclude infection
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Pre-operative anaesthetic assessment
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Imaging on the day of surgery for access planning
All results are reviewed in detail with your consultant.
Recovery, Follow-Up and Ongoing Care
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Hospital stay is typically 2–4 nights
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A temporary nephrostomy tube or stent may be used
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Post-operative pain is usually well controlled
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Gradual return to normal activity over several weeks
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Follow-up imaging confirms stone clearance
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Long-term prevention advice and monitoring provided
Insurance and Self-Pay
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is covered by major UK private medical insurers, including Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality and WPA, subject to policy terms and prior authorisation.
Self-pay patients receive clear, consultant-led pricing, discussed in advance.
LSDC Healthcare
A couple of minutes outside Liverpool St Station, this excellent facility is conveniently located for Medical consultations in London.
This facility is open during the evenings making it an excellent choice for busy professionals.
Book A Kidney Stone Surgery Consultation
If you have large or complex kidney stones requiring definitive treatment, our consultants provide expert assessment and advanced surgical management in Central London.
FAQ — Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Why is PCNL recommended instead of lithotripsy?
PCNL is more effective for large or complex stones that are unlikely to break adequately with shockwave lithotripsy.
Is PCNL a major operation?
PCNL is minimally invasive but more complex than other stone treatments and requires general anaesthesia and short hospital stay.
Will I need a tube after surgery?
A temporary nephrostomy tube or ureteric stent may be placed to ensure drainage during early healing.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients resume light activities within a few weeks, with full recovery over several months.
How successful is PCNL?
PCNL offers the highest stone-clearance rates for large kidney stones, often achieving complete removal in one procedure.
Is PCNL covered by private insurance?
Yes. PCNL is usually covered by UK private medical insurers, subject to policy terms and authorisation.