Purpose: Percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) is a safe and useful procedure used in urinary tract obstruction and its insertion was done by the help of radiologists in some hospitals. By the use of an ultrasound and fluoroscopy which are today available in most of the urology departments there is no longer need to radiologists. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of PCN procedures performed by the urologists alone. Methods: In a five-year period between 1990-1994, a total of 116 PCNs were inserted in 93 patients (55 male and 38 female). Their ages were ranging from 40 days to 75 years (mean 41.3 years). Ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance were used in the urinary access. Nephrostomy tubes were inserted because of urinary obstructions in 74 (63.8%), intrapelvic malignancies in 35 (30.2%), obstruction in transplanted kidneys in 4 (3.4%) and vesicoureteral reflux in 3 (2.6%). Results: Hemorrhage was observed in 3 (2.6%) patients but surgical intervention was done only in one patient (0.9%) in the early post-procedure period to control the massive hemorrhage from the puncture sites on parenchyma. Conclusion: The urologists perform different kinds of endourologic procedures and insertion of nephrostomy catheter is a simple procedure which can be done solely by urologists who are deciding for the PCN indication and able to treat the complications which may arise, and must be handled by the urologist
