Ultrasonic vs. Fluoroscopic Guided PNL in Pediatric Renal Stones

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PNL) was accepted as a treatment modality for large renal stones since 1980. Although radiation exposure during PNL is within the safe limits for expert endourologist, the mutagenic hazard is still present especially in pediatric population. Therefore, employing an alternative imaging technique during PNL would be of added advantage. So, the investigators want to compare the efficacy of ultrasound guided PNL with the conventional (fluoroscopy guided) PNL in pediatric population. If ultrasound guided PNL was as effective as conventional one, this means that many children could be protected from the variable hazards of radiation exposure.