Intermediate
Technical
IVT
nephrostomy tube
A catheter placed percutaneously into the renal pelvis to drain urine when normal urinary flow is obstructed.
Full Definition
A nephrostomy tube is a thin, flexible catheter inserted through the skin into the renal pelvis to provide urinary drainage when the normal urinary tract is obstructed. In urologic oncology, these tubes are commonly used for patients with ureteral obstruction from malignancy, post-operative complications, or during complex reconstructive procedures. The tube requires regular maintenance and monitoring for complications such as dislodgement, infection, or bleeding.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PCN (percutaneous nephrostomy) in clinical notes.
In Context
- "A nephrostomy tube was placed for decompression of the obstructed kidney prior to systemic therapy." — Interventional radiology procedure note
- "The patient's nephrostomy tube output decreased significantly, raising concern for tube malfunction." — Nursing assessment note
Also known as
percutaneous nephrostomy
PCN tube
Don't confuse with
ureteral stent
suprapubic catheter
ureterostomy