Percutaneous Nephrostomy (PCN)

Percutaneous Nephrostomy (PCN)

Percutaneous Nephrostomy (PCN) is a medical procedure used to drain urine from the kidneys when the normal flow is obstructed, typically due to kidney stones, tumors, or urinary tract blockages. During PCN, a thin tube (catheter) is inserted through the skin and into the kidney, guided by imaging techniques like ultrasound or fluoroscopy. The catheter allows urine to bypass the obstruction, relieving pain and preventing kidney damage or infection. PCN is often a temporary solution, and further treatment may be required to address the underlying cause of the blockage once the kidney is adequately drained.