Prone PNL: Is it still the gold standard? Review and results

Abstract

Conventionally PNL is performed with the patient in the prone position, and the present chapter reviews the “classic” standard technique in this position. Prone PNL has proven to be effective and safe in all situations, in spite of the potential advantages of the supine PNL. Its indications are identical in any position and can also be expanded, exploiting the advent of the mini-PNL approach. The option of simultaneous retrograde access makes supine position an interesting alternative for selected cases, although nowadays prone PNL can still be considered the gold standard.