What is a nephrostomy tube insertion?

Nephrostomy tube insertionis a procedure that uses x-ray to locate the kidney and then a tube(s) is inserted into the kidney to drain your urine.

Why do I need a nephrostomy tube insertion?

• The pathway that drains your urine from your kidney to your bladder is blocked or narrowed.
• Stones in your kidney may be causing infection and/or blockage.
• A previous attempt to pass a tube through the bladder to the kidney has failed.

Where is the nephrostomy tube insertion performed?

It is performed in the Interventional Radiology Department.

Who will perform the nephrostomy tube insertion?

One of our specially trained Interventional Radiologists.

What can I expect before the nephrostomy tube insertion?

• You will be seen by one of our doctors and/or nurse clinicians, who will obtain a health history, perform a brief physical exam, explain the procedure and answer your questions.
• You will have blood drawn and an IV (intravenous) catheter started.
• You will receive IV (intravenous) antibiotics to help prevent infection.
• You will be requested to sign a consent form.

   

What can I expect during the nephrostomy tube insertion?

• You will be attached to a monitor so that IV (intravenous) medications can be given to relax you.
• You will be positioned on your abdomen and your back area will be cleaned with special soap.
• The doctor will numb the skin with special medicine through a needle.
• The doctor will insert the tube into your kidney and inject x-ray dye into the kidney. This gives him a clear picture of the kidney.
• The tube will remain in your body and the end will be secured with a stitch where it comes out of your back.
• A dressing will be put over the insertion site.
• The tube(s) will be attached to a drainage bag outside your body to collect the urine.

   

What can I expect after the nephrostomy tube insertion?

• You will spend the night in the hospital to be observed for bleeding from the tube(s) and to monitor the urine output.
• The nurse will teach you how to care for your nephrostomy tube(s) at home. An instruction sheet about how to care for your new tube will be sent home with you.
• You will return for your follow-up x-ray. The doctor will tell you if you need to keep your tube(s) longer or if you need to return.
• A home health nurse can come to your house to help you care for the tube(s).

What are the risks of having a nephrostomy?

• Bleeding at the insertion site.
• Infection at the insertion site.
• Urine leakage around the tube(s), the tube(s) coming out or becoming plugged.
• Injury to the kidney.

What the benefits of having a nephrostomy tube insertion?

• It allows your body to get rid of the urine that isn't draining and is backed up in your kidney.
• It will help with the health of your kidney.

What are the alternatives to having a nephrostomy tube insertion?

Surgical drainage of blocked urine.