Clinical Research Directory

Safety and Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Nephrostomy in Oncology Patients

Obstructive uropathy is a serious complication frequently seen in cancer patients, occurring when urine flow from the kidneys is blocked by tumor compression, invasion, or benign etiologies such as radiation-induced strictures and stones. If left untreated, this blockage leads to hydronephrosis, acute kidney impairment, and interruptions in cancer therapy. When internal ureteral stenting fails or is not possible, percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN), which involves inserting a small drainage tube through the back directly into the renal collecting system, is required to decompress the kidney and preserve renal function. Traditionally, PCN is performed under fluoroscopy, exposing patients and healthcare staff to ionizing radiation. Ultrasound guidance provides continuous real-time visualization of the renal structures while completely eliminating radiation hazards. The primary purpose of this prospective interventional study is to evaluate the technical success, safety, and complication rates of ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy in oncology patients presenting with urinary tract obstruction. Participants in this study undergo ultrasound-guided PCN under local anesthesia using the standard Seldinger technique to place an 8Fr pigtail drainage catheter. The study evaluates the technical success rate of the procedure, procedural and post-procedural complications (such as bleeding or sepsis), recovery of kidney function measured by changes in serum creatinine levels, and hospital length of stay.

Initial Drainage Method and Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes in Calculous Anuria

Calculous anuria caused by obstructing upper ureteral stones in a solitary functioning kidney is a urological emergency requiring urgent decompression. Both retrograde JJ ureteral stenting and percutaneous nephrostomy are commonly used emergency drainage methods. However, limited evidence is available regarding whether the initial drainage method affects subsequent definitive flexible ureteroscopy/retrograde intrarenal surgery outcomes. This multicenter prospective randomized controlled trial will compare emergency JJ ureteral stent drainage versus percutaneous nephrostomy drainage in adult patients presenting with calculous anuria due to a single upper ureteral stone in a solitary functioning kidney. After renal functional improvement, clinical stabilization, and appropriate urine culture management, all participants will undergo standardized definitive flexible ureteroscopy/retrograde intrarenal surgery. The study will assess renal functional recovery, first-session surgical success, stone-free rate, operative parameters, complications, and microbiological outcomes.

Intravesical Aminophylline for Urgent Ureteral Stenting in Acute Calculous Anuria

Acute calculous anuria is a urological emergency caused by ureteral stone obstruction in a solitary functioning kidney or bilateral ureteral obstruction. Urgent decompression of the upper urinary tract is required to restore urine drainage and prevent further renal impairment. This prospective randomized double-blind controlled trial will evaluate whether intravesical aminophylline can facilitate urgent retrograde ureteral stenting in adult patients with acute calculous anuria due to ureteral stones. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to receive either intravesical aminophylline diluted in normal saline or placebo saline before attempted retrograde Double-J ureteral stent placement. The primary outcome is technical success, defined as successful placement of a Double-J ureteral stent across the obstructing stone without the need for percutaneous nephrostomy. Secondary outcomes include stenting time, intraoperative complications, renal function recovery, postoperative pain, analgesic requirement, and the need for alternative drainage.