Laparoscopically guided transperitoneal percutaneous nephrolithotomy for calculi in pelvic ectopic kidneys

Although percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a well-established endourological modality for the management of calculi in the normally placed kidney, it is not easy to apply in the management of calculi in pelvic ectopic kidneys. We report the cases of three patients who were found to have large calculi in pelvic ectopic kidneys and subsequently underwent laparoscopically guided transperitoneal percutaneous nephrolithotomy, all with successful outcome. In all patients, complete stone clearance was achieved in a single operation with no intraoperative or postoperative morbidity. They remain asymptomatic and recurrence-free at a follow-up ranging from 2 to 38 months. Laparoscopic guidance allows the transperitoneal route to be used safely for percutaneous nephrolithotomy in patients with calculi in pelvic ectopic kidneys. We believe it to be a feasible, safe, and valid minimally invasive management option for this uncommon but challenging urological condition.