
Nephrostogram, also known as antegrade pyelogram, is a special x-ray procedure that fluoroscopically evaluates the upper collecting system by introducing water-soluble contrast through the nephrostomy A nephrostomy is an artificial opening created between the kidney and the skin which allows for the urinary diversion directly from the upper part of the urinary system. An urostomy is a related procedure performed more distally along the urinary system to provide urinary diversion.Nephrostomy
What is a nephrostogram procedure?
Home/ Diagnostic Imaging Care/ nephrostogram procedure (percutaneous nephrostogram) nephrostogram procedure (percutaneous nephrostogram) special x-ray of your kidney imaging of your kidney by injecting a contrast agent (dye) through a nephrostomy tube. This will confirm the position of the catheter (tube) and assess the drainage of the kidney.
How long does a nephrostomy procedure take?
The length of the procedure can vary considerably, depending on each patient’s internal body structure and the reason for the nephrostomy. A longer procedure does not necessarily mean that there is a complication – the radiologist will be ensuring time is taken to place the nephrostomy safely.
What should I check when inspecting my nephrostomy tube?
When you inspect your nephrostomy tube, you should check the following: 1 Verify that your dressing is dry, clean, and secure. 2 Check your skin around the dressing to make sure there’s no redness or rash. 3 Look at the urine that has collected in your drainage bag... 4 Be sure there are no kinks or twists in the tubing...
How do you remove a nephrostomy?
Finally, a drainage bag is connected to the nephrostomy to collect the urine and the procedure is finished. Once the reason for the nephrostomy has been treated, the nephrostomy can be removed by medical or nursing staff without further intervention. Sometimes, X-ray is used to guide the removal.

Is a Nephrostogram painful?
The test is not painful. However, there may be mild discomfort. If there is obstruction to the flow of contrast and you have severe pain, you can inform your doctor/nurse/radiographer who will unclamp the PCN immediately.
Who performs a Nephrostogram?
WHO WILL PERFORM THE PROCEDURE? This procedure will be performed by a radiologist (a specialist medical doctor). An x-ray technologist will assist. 4.
Is nephrostomy procedure painful?
nephrostomy tubes have a negative impact on the patient's quality of life. During the time they live with these tubes, patients have mild to moderate pain and anxiety.
Are you awake for a nephrostomy tube?
The procedure is done by a Radiologist. You will lie on your side so the blocked kidney is facing up. You will be given a local anaesthetic to freeze the area on your back while you are awake.
How serious is a nephrostomy?
Inserting a nephrostomy is a relatively safe procedure and the risk of serious complication is rare. The risks include: severe bleeding (haemorrhage): 1–3% (up to 3 patients in every 100 who have this procedure); tube dislodgement: 1% (up to 1 in every 100 patients who have this procedure);
How long does nephrostomy surgery take?
A nephrostomy usually takes less than 30 minutes but can take up to 45 minutes if the procedure is difficult. Your doctor will insert the catheter in your kidney using a needle and guidewire (thin flexible wire). They will inject local anaesthetic into the area where the needle will be inserted.
How long can a person live with a nephrostomy tube?
Survival times after percutaneous nephrostomy Four studies stated median survival post-PCN that ranged between 4–21 months [9, 11, 14, 15]. The other three studies stated their mean survival time as 31, 4.4 and 15 months respectively [5, 12, 13].
Is nephrostomy tube placement a major surgery?
Operative nephrostomy is a major surgical procedure requiring general anesthesia for, what may be a transitory obstruction and already impaired renal function may make it hazardous.
Can you go home with a nephrostomy tube?
Once you are ready, you will be discharged home. Some patients stay in the hospital overnight. Your doctor would let you know and arrange this during an appointment before your procedure. If you are discharged, a Home and Community Care nurse will call you to help you care for your nephrostomy tube.
Can you urinate with a nephrostomy?
Placement of a nephrostomy tube is temporary and allows urine to drain outside of your body when it can't flow through your urinary system as normal.
How do you shower with a nephrostomy bag?
Do not swim or take baths while you have a nephrostomy tube. You can shower after wrapping the end of the nephrostomy tube with plastic wrap. Change the dressing around the nephrostomy tube about every 3 days or when it gets wet or dirty.
Is a nephrostomy tube a catheter?
To restore the flow, a nephrostomy tube (small catheter) can be placed through the skin of the lower back into the kidney. As a result, urine will then drain into a small bag connected to the tube. A nephrostomy tube may be in place for days, weeks or months.
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Before your procedure
Prior to having your nephrostomy tube placed, you should be sure to do the following:
During your procedure
Your doctor will inject an anesthetic at the site where the nephrostomy tube is to be inserted. They’ll then use imaging technology such as ultrasound, CT scan, or fluoroscopy to help them place the tube correctly. When the tube has been inserted, they’ll attach a small disk to your skin to help hold the tube in place.
Inspection of your nephrostomy tube
When you inspect your nephrostomy tube, you should check the following:
Emptying your drainage bag
You’ll need to empty your drainage bag into a toilet when it’s approximately halfway full. The amount of time between each emptying of the bag can vary from person to person. Some people will need to do this every few hours.
Flushing your tubing
You typically need to flush your tubing at least once a day, but you may need to flush more often following your procedure. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to flush your tubing. The general procedure is as follows:
Additional things to remember
Be sure to keep your drainage bag below the level of your kidneys. This prevents urine backup. Often, the drainage bag is strapped to your leg.
