What Is Nephrostomy Tube Placement? A Simple Guide

Nephrostomy tube placement is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a catheter or tube into the kidney to drain urine directly from the kidney into a collection bag outside the body. This procedure is typically performed under imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to ensure accurate placement of the tube.

The process begins with the patient being positioned on an examination table and administered local anesthesia to numb the area where the tube will be inserted. The doctor then uses imaging guidance to locate the kidney and guide the needle and catheter into the correct position. Once the catheter is in place, it is secured with a stitch or tape to prevent it from moving or coming out.

There are several reasons why a nephrostomy tube may be necessary, including:

• Blockage of the urinary tract: If there is a blockage in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone or tumor, a nephrostomy tube can help to bypass the blockage and allow urine to drain from the kidney.
• Infection or abscess: If there is an infection or abscess in the kidney, a nephrostomy tube can help to drain the infected fluid and allow the kidney to heal.
• Cancer treatment: In some cases, a nephrostomy tube may be used to deliver chemotherapy or other medications directly to the kidney as part of cancer treatment.
• Kidney damage: If the kidney is damaged, a nephrostomy tube can help to support the kidney and allow it to function properly.

Types of Nephrostomy Tubes

There are several types of nephrostomy tubes, including:

• Percutaneous nephrostomy tube: This is the most common type of nephrostomy tube and involves the insertion of a catheter through the skin and into the kidney.
• Ureteral stent: This is a small, hollow tube that is inserted into the ureter to help drain urine from the kidney.
• Nephroureteral stent: This is a combination of a nephrostomy tube and a ureteral stent, which allows for drainage of urine from the kidney and into the bladder.

What to Expect After the Procedure

After the procedure, the patient will be monitored for any complications, such as bleeding or infection. The nephrostomy tube will need to be flushed regularly to prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage. The patient will also need to follow a set of instructions for caring for the tube and collection bag, including:

• Keeping the tube site clean and dry: The patient should clean the area around the tube site with soap and water and dry it thoroughly to prevent infection.
• Flushing the tube: The patient should flush the tube regularly with saline solution to prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage.
• Monitoring for complications: The patient should monitor for any signs of complications, such as bleeding, infection, or blockage of the tube.

Potential Complications

While nephrostomy tube placement is generally a safe procedure, there are potential complications that can occur, including:

• Infection: Bacteria can enter the kidney through the tube, causing an infection.
• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding from the insertion site or from the kidney itself.
• Blockage of the tube: The tube can become blocked, preventing urine from draining properly.
• Damage to surrounding organs: The tube can cause damage to surrounding organs, such as the bowel or blood vessels.

It is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor for any complications and ensure proper healing.

In conclusion, nephrostomy tube placement is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a catheter or tube into the kidney to drain urine directly from the kidney into a collection bag outside the body. While it is generally a safe procedure, there are potential complications that can occur, and it is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.