Who is a good candidate for PCNL, and who should avoid it?

Ideal candidates are patients with large kidney stones (typically >2 cm), staghorn stones, or stones that have not responded to shockwave lithotripsy. PCNL is also suitable for stones located in the lower pole of the kidney. Contraindications include uncontrolled bleeding disorders, active urinary tract infection, severe obesity (BMI >40), or anatomical abnormalities that prevent safe kidney access. Your urologist will evaluate your imaging and medical history to determine candidacy.