Laparoscopy-assisted percutaneous nephrolithotomy in a pelvic ectopic kidney: A minimally invasive approach

ABSTRACT: Ectopic pelvic kidneys present unique anatomical challenges in the management of nephrolithiasis due to their abnormal position and proximity to surrounding structures. This case report describes a 58-year-old male patient with a 26-mm renal stone in a left pelvic ectopic kidney, successfully treated using a laparoscopy-assisted percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) approach. The procedure involved initial ureteral catheter placement, laparoscopic mobilisation of the kidney and fluoroscopic-guided percutaneous access for stone fragmentation and removal. Laparoscopic assistance improved visualisation, facilitated safe access to the renal collecting system and minimised the risk of injury to adjacent organs. The patient had an uneventful recovery, with no residual stone burden. This case highlights laparoscopy-assisted PCNL as an effective and minimally invasive alternative for treating nephrolithiasis in pelvic ectopic kidneys, offering advantages in terms of safety and precision. Further studies are needed to establish standardised protocols for this technique.