Percutaneous Nephrostomy Tube

A percutaneous nephrostomy tube is a tube placed through the back into the kidney. A drainage tube collects urine from the kidney and exits the back. This is typically connected to a bag which drains urine from the kidney. A percutaneous nephrostomy tube may be placed in preparation for a kidney stone surgery called percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL).

A percutaneous nephrostomy tube may also be placed in preparation for surgery of the kidney tube (ureter). This includes

• Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ obstruction) in preparation for reconstructive surgery called pyeloplasty
• Narrowing or stricture of the kidney tube (ureter) in preparation for reconstructive surgery
• Kidney swelling (hydronephrosis) due to tumor in preparation for further surgery or chemotherapy of the urinary tract

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Nephroureteral Stent

A nephroureteral stent is a plastic tube that travels from the bladder, up through the kidney tube (ureter) through the kidney and out the back. This is typically placed to a drainage bag to collect the urine. A nephroureteral stent is typically placed in preparation for upcoming surgery along with urinary tract.

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Suprapubic Tube

A suprapubic tube is a plastic tube placed in the bladder that exits out the belly wall. This is placed to a drainage bag to collect the urine. This is placed when there is a narrowing or blockage of the normal urinary pathway (urethra).