Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the 80 Years of Age and Older Population

Abstract Objective To evaluate feasibility of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for complex nephrolithiasis in patients 80 years of age and older compared to younger individuals. Methods From an institutional IRB-approved database, 1,647 patients were identified who underwent PCNL from 1999 to 2019. Patients were stratified by age: group 1 (20-59), group 2 (60-79), and group 3 (>80). Statistics were performed using chi-square and ANOVA to compare outcomes. Results Of the 1,647 patients, median age was 46, 66, and 83, respectively (P Conclusion PCNL is feasible in the extremely elderly; however with a higher rate of complications and longer hospitalizations. No long-term sequelae or deaths in the 80 and older cohort were seen. This study allows us to appropriately counsel older patients on a realistic postoperative course and supports use of PCNL as the best means of long-term survival.