Nephrostomy



Definition

A nephrostomy is a surgical procedure by which a tube, stent, or catheter is inserted through the skin and into the kidney.


Purpose

The ureter is the fibromuscular tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. When this tube is blocked, urine backs up into the kidney. Serious, irreversible kidney damage can occur because of this backflow of urine. Infection is also a common consequence in this stagnant urine.

Nephrostomy is performed in several different circumstances:

Demographics

For unknown reasons, the number of people in the United States with kidney and ureter stones has been increasing over the past 20 years. White Americans are more prone to develop kidney stones than African Americans. Stones occur more frequently in men. The condition strikes most typically between the ages of 20 and 40. Once a person gets more than one stone, others are likely to develop.

Upper tract tumors develop in the renal pelvis (tissue in the kidneys that collects urine) and in the ureters. These cancers account for less than 1% of cancers of the reproductive and urinary systems. Upper tract tumors are often associated with bladder cancer.


Description

First, the patient is given an anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. The doctor then inserts a needle into the kidney. There are several imaging technologies such as ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) that are used to help the doctor guide the needle into the correct place.

Next, a fine guide wire follows the needle. The catheter, which is about the same diameter as IV (intravenous) tubing, follows the guide wire to its proper location. The catheter is then connected to a bag outside the body that collects the urine. The catheter and bag are secured so that the catheter will not pull out. The procedure usually takes one to two hours.

Diagnosis/Preparation

Either the day before or the day of the nephrostomy, blood samples are taken. Other diagnostic tests done before the procedure may vary, depending on why the nephrostomy is being done, but the patient may have a CT scan or ultrasound to help the treating physician locate the blockage.

Patients should not eat for eight hours before a nephrostomy. On the day of the procedure, the patient will have an IV line placed in a vein in the arm. Through this line, the patient will receive antibiotics to prevent infection, medication for pain, and fluids. The IV line will remain in place after the procedure for at least several hours, and often longer.

People preparing for a nephrostomy should review with their doctor all the medications they are taking. People taking anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Coumadin) may need to stop their medication. People taking metformin (Glucophage) may need to stop taking the medication for several days before and after nephrostomy. Diabetics should discuss modifying their insulin dose because fasting is required before the procedure.


Aftercare

Outpatients are usually expected to stay in the clinic or hospital for eight to 12 hours after the procedure to make sure the nephrostomy tube is functioning properly. They should plan to have someone drive them home and stay with them for at least the first 24 hours after the procedure. Inpatients may stay in the hospital several days. Generally, people feel sore where the catheter is inserted for about a week to 10 days.

Care of the nephrostomy tube is important. It is located on the patient's back, so it may be necessary to have someone help with its care. The nephrostomy tube should be kept dry and protected from water when taking showers. The skin around it should be kept clean, and the dressing over the area changed frequently. It is the main part of the urine drainage system, and it should be treated very carefully to prevent bacteria and other germs from entering the system. If any germs get into the tubing, they can easily cause a kidney infection. The drainage bag should not be allowed to drag on the floor. If the bag should accidentally be cut or begin to leak, it must be changed immediately. It is not recommended to place the drainage bag in a plastic bag if it leaks.

Risks

A nephrostomy is an established and generally safe procedure. As with all operations, there is always a risk of allergic reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, and infection.

Bruising at the catheter insertion site occurs in about half of people who have a nephrostomy. This is a minor complication. Major complications include the following:

Normal results

In a successful nephrostomy, the catheter is inserted, and urine drains into the collection bag. How long the catheter stays in place depends on the reason for its insertion. In people with pelvic cancer or bladder cancer where the ureter is blocked by a tumor, the catheter will stay in place until the tumor is surgically removed. If the cancer is inoperable, the catheter may have to stay in place for the rest of the patient's life.


Morbidity and mortality rates

The mortality rate of nephrostomies is of the order of less than 0.05% and the incidence of the specific complications listed above ranges between less than 0.05% (hemorrhage, kidney arterial blocking, and loss of kidney tissue) to less than 1% (injury to surrounding organs and septicemia).


Alternatives

In the treatment of ureter stones, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) has been most widely performed and has become the preferred treatment for this condition. ESWL is a new technique that offers an alternative to surgery for patients with kidney or ureter stones. ESWL works by pulverizing the stones into sand-like particles that can be excreted with little or no pain. This is achieved by the ESWL procedure approximately 90% of the time. The shock waves are a form of high-energy pressure that can travel in air or water. When generated outside the body, they pass through the tissues of the body without damaging them, but can destroy a stone inside a kidney or urethra. The shock waves pass through both without injury. A stone has a greater density and, when the shock wave hits it, the waves scatter and break it up.

Resources

books

Rodman, J. S. and C. Seidman. No More Kidney Stones. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.

periodicals

Cozens, N. J. "How Should We Deliver an Out of Hours Nephrostomy Service?" Clinical Radiology 58 (May 2003): 410.

Dyer, R. B., J. D. Regan, P. V. Kavanagh, E. G. Khatod, M. Y. Chen, and R. J. Zagoria. "Percutaneous Nephrostomy with Extensions of the Technique: Step by Step." Radiographics 22 (May–June 2002): 503–524.

Koral, K., M. C. Saker, F. P. Morello, C. K. Rigsby, and J. S. Donaldson. "Conventional versus Modified Technique for Percutaneous Nephrostomy in Newborns and Young Infants." Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology 14 (January 2003): 113–116.

Little, B., K. J. Ho, S. Gawley, and M. Young. "Use of Nephrostomy Tubes in Ureteric Obstruction from Incurable Malignancy." International Journal of Clinical Practice 57 (April 2003): 180–0181.

organizations

American Cancer Society. National Headquarters. 1599 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329. (800) ACS-2345. http://www.cancer.org .

American College of Radiology (ACR). 1891 Preston White Drive, Reston, VA 20191-4397. (800) 227-5463. http://www.acr.org .

American Urological Association (AUA). 1120 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. (410) 727-1100. http://www.auanet.org .

United Ostomy Association (UOA). 19772 MacArthur Blvd., #200, Irvine, CA 92612-2405. (800) 826-0826. http://www.uoa.org .

other

"Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)." Family Practice Notebook May 28, 2003 [cited July 7, 2003]. http://www.fpnotebook.com/SUR46.htm .

"Nephrostomy." Mid-South Imaging and Therapeutics [cited July 7, 2003]. http://www.msit.com .

"Percutaneous Nephrostomy." WFUSM Division of Radiologic Sciences. May 8, 2003 [cited July 7, 2003]. http://www.rad.bgsm.edu/patienteduc/percutaneous_nephrostomy.htm .


Tish Davidson, AM
Monique Laberge, PhD

WHO PERFORMS THE PROCEDURE AND WHERE IS IT PERFORMED?


A nephrostomy is performed by an interventional radiologist or urologist with special training in the procedure. It can be done either on an inpatient or outpatient basis, depending on why it is required. For most cancer patients, nephrostomy is an inpatient procedure. Specially trained nurses called wound, ostomy continence nurses (WOCN) are commonly available for consultation in most major medical centers to assist patients.

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR


Also read article about Nephrostomy from Wikipedia

User Contributions:

1
Jacqueline Orvis
Just wanted to add a comment on the reasons for having nephrostomy tube inserted. I am 27 weeks pregnant and had a tube placed about a week ago. Due to the pregnancy and risk to the baby, we were unable to determine if I had a kidney stone, or if the weight of the baby growing is blocking my right ureter. I subsequently developed marked hydronephrosis on my right kidney. Due to the pregnancy, I was unable to have a full x-ray, or IVP to check for a stone. I have been told by several people in the medical profession that the need for nephrostomy tubes during pregnancy is increasing. I just thought maybe a little information to add to your article would be helpful to pregnant women that have to have a nephro tube. Thank-you.
2
Linda Gibson
I have a permanet nehprostomy tube due to a tumor pressing on my ureter. The tumor was radiated but left a scar on my ureter and the doctor has said there is no way to repair/replace the ureter or even put back a stent I had. The kidney is fully functioning and has no cancer. Has any one had this issue but were able to get rid of the nephrostomy tube.
3
amelia mccardle
95 year old male with prostate, bladder. liver and lung cancers plus
a 5.5cms abdominal aneurysm, also hematuria underwent a nephrostomy 04/26/06. What would the prognosis
be? Would removal of inserted catheters eventually be possible?
4
angelica
thanks for this article i learned more about neprostomy tube..............
5
Katlyn Davis
I am 29 year old female, currently 30 weeks pregnant. I had to have a tube placed at 19 weeks due to a 1 cm stone blocking my left ureter and hydronephrosis. They will not remove tube until 6 weeks after I deliver. I have had numerous problems with my tube, including a bacterial infection in that kidney that I ended up in the hosptial on 2 different antibiotics for weeks. The tube got completely blocked at one point and was completely encrusted after a few weeks from initial placement. Before it is all said and done I will have had at least 4-5 tubes put in and taken out due to the problems I have experienced in a 6 month time period.
6
Ajit Rai
I am from Nepal. Six days ago, I had a nephrostomy tube place at the upper part of my right ureter from where a stone was removed through the MPCNL. The doctor told me that this tube will be removed after four weeks. The problem I have now is that I feel pain inside my body( probably at the upper part of my right ureter where there was a stone). Is it a sign of urinary tract infection. I would be grateful if you answer my question.
7
Nicole
I had a nephrostomy tube placed at 6 months of pregnancy due to an 8mm kidney stone and hydronephrosis. The tube was supposed to be replaced 3 weeks later but became stuck. A new tract had to be made for a bigger tube. Now I am expected to get it replaced every 2 weeks until the baby is born. I have no history of kidney stones or problems in my family. Ladies be careful not to go too long before tube changes. Pregnant women need it changed much more frequently or it will become clogged and stuck.
8
Nicole
As an update to my June 19th, 2008 posting: My tube now needs to be changed every week and the doctor still has trouble getting the wire through the tube. I'm now 36 weeks pregnant. I have 3 more tube changes scheduled and then will have a c section. So during a 15 week period I will have experienced 2 different tracts put into my kidney and 9 tube changes. A few days after the c section I will have the kidney stone removed. Hopefully the tube will then be removed and I'll have a stent put in for a few days.
9
sheila
I had a nephrostomy placed on a Friday morning, the radiologist forgot to attach to a bag, Friday night I was in double over pain, my doctor wrote for pain medicine, on saturday I was running a fever and doubled over in pain, my doctor said to go to the ER and he instructed them to load me up on pain medicine, on Sunday I sit down to use the restroom, still in major pain, still with fever and urine pours out my side. My body was infected for three days with urine, fortunate not to have become septic. Now I am having my kidney removed due to excessive daily pain, stones were removed but scarring and damage has left me in chronic pain.
10
texasdoe
My mother passed away Sept 23 after a long bout with cervical cancer. She was 79 yrs old. Type II diabetic. But it wasnt the cancer that killed her. Before she was finally diagnosed her kidney Dr diagnosed some stones in her Left ureter and she underwent surgery 3 times to have it totally removed finally. After which she had a MRI to make sure all was good. At that time the MRI showed her cancer growing and spreading to other organs, Colon, Bladder, abdominal cavity. She underwent one chemo treatment which blew out her left ureter which had just had surgery 3 months before. Even though tests showed her Right kidney, ureter and bladder would still be ok, why the doctor recommended double neph, we will never understand. Then she had nephrostomy done on both kidneys. After that she never got out of bed or went out of the house. She slowly went downhill from there. Her legs became lathargic becasue she lost so much muscle mass. Soon she was in diapers and full hospice care for kidneys mind you. My mother wasnt dying of her cancer , it was because her kidneys had failed her through all these attempts to FIX the problem as her doctor kept saying. "This will fix the problem", she kept saying. I think since it was on her Left side that she should have had her left kidney removed only. Instead of having both her kidneys bagged as she called it. I would recommend that if you are undgoing same circumstances to consider a kidney removal, especially if the ureter is not working to drain to the bladder, instead of continuing with the nephrostomy of both. While she was in the nursing homes, she fell out of bed and her Left tube came out, then during a transfer from her wheel chair to her bed it happened again, we moved her to another nursing home and it happened there too, then she was dehydrated so bad she was kept at the hospital for the rest of her life. From February to October is all it took with her infections getting worse and worse because of bad care for her. We live to trust the experts and lived to see our mother suffer tremendously because of their unprofessionalism in her care. I will never allow myself to get that unhealthy. Check yourselves ladies and gents. Don't die because you didn't have complete physicals annually. Love yourself and take care of yourself and family. Get informed before making these decisions. And by that I mean 3 -4 opinions if necessary.
11
David
My best friend had a nephrostomy today. He's 55 and has been living with kidney stones most of his life. The pain had gotten worse lately and he was admitted and treated for it this morning. I had no idea that nephrostomy was such a risky and complicated procedure. And because we currently live in different countries, I don't know how he's doing. Reading the risks involved makes me feel awful. Even the less-than-1% mortality rate scares me. I feel horrified right now. My heart goes out to everyone who posted comments here, I feel your pain.
12
Manfred
In August of 2008 a cat scan showed a 7mm stone in my left kidney.
I was waiting to get the shock wave treatment and told to drink a lot. After a week I had increased pain in my left lower back and since I'm on opoids for cronic lower back pain, I was first not sure that it was my kidney. I went in to the emergency room of our lokal hospital but not taken serious. I argued with the nurses until I could see a doctor. At first he was also belittleing the situation , but checked my urine. Next followed a cat scan and it was determined, that the stone had moved into the ureta and was stuck there. I was on emergency stand by to have the stone moved back into the kidney and to have a stent inserted so the kidney could drain. During that procedure the Doctor inserted the stent and also broke the stone and removed most of it. Few weeks later the stent was removed and I had a follow up appointment in December. An ultrasound the end of November was also done. I had more pain and very high blood pressure. Could not stand the pain and went to emergency again. A cat scan showed that the kidney could not drain and was swollen. A week later the urologist tried to open the ureta but was not successful and the next day I got my nephrostomy tube. Now since Christmas I'm in limbo and hope that the kidney can still be saved.
13
Tina Cooper
I had my first tubes put in 3 months ago with the first change last Monday, 1/25/09. Where do I buy back-ups of urine collection bags and velcro so I may shower? I have terrible insurance and lost the feeling and control in my left arm and hand after I went into renal failure.
Hey, still better than dialysis.
14
Megan
I am 24 weeks pregnant and 18 years of age. I got bi-lateral urethral stents put in a week ago, and then developed MRSA in my urine for whatever reason. Due to the MRSA being in my bladder i have decided to get the nephrostomy done so that the risk of the MRSA going up into my kidney would be at a lesser risk, so it it safer for me and my unborn son. I would just like to know if anyone has any advice for me and/or would like to share their experience. i am very scared about this whole thing and i just would like everything to turn out alright. Any advice???
15
terri
my husband has a nephrostomy tube after his surgeon cut the left ureter during pelvic surgery. there are several corrective sugeries to reconnect the ureter to the bladder even to make a new ureter from a piece of intestines. these tpe of surgeries usually have high failure rates an it takes more surgery to try an get it right. my husband is in limbo right now an is weary of any tpe of surgery.
16
Cindy Findlow
My mother has a nephrostomy tube due to a kidney stone and would like to find out if there is any way she can resume swimming. ie: waterproof suit, disconecting bag temporarily. Ha anyone done this?
Thanks
17
Pauline
My mother will have a nephrostomy catheter due to a UV fistula in one or two weeks. She got a TOT for urinary incontinence since last June.However, it was failed then she had TOT again by same urologist last Dec. Sorryfully,there were a hole in the ureter,causing urine to leak which lead to her another fistulectomy last Feb. The result was not positive. She has been staying a foley cathter for reducing the volume of urinary leaking to recover a UV fistula since then. Finally, her doctor decided to have a nephrostomy. Only one kidney of her is functiong which make me wondering how she would be after that. now.
18
suzanne
My mom has a tube because of bladder cancer but the area at insertion site leaks constantly with no solution to be found...also tube connections leak...does anyone else have this problem...she is 82 and totally frustrated but has no good choice in this matter.
Any info would be of great help to us...doc has said it is a "minor inconvenience" compared to what she had been experiencing before with no bladder control at all.
Please write me if you have anything to add to her situation.
thank you
19
Mrs. Taylor
MY HUSBAND JUST HAD A KIDNEY ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO AND NOW HE IS HAVING A NEPHROSTOMY. I AM WONDERING HOW SORE WILL HE BE AND HOW LONG WILL HE HAVE IT?
20
Lisa
My Mum is 70 years old and had to have an operation due to a growth that was nothing we needed to worry about but the doctor said it was of considerable size and should be removed - during this operation her ureter tube was cut but this was not detected. A few days later she developed an infection in her blood and her kidney had become septic. She had an emergency procedure to drain her kidney and to place a stint to resolve the issue in her kidney (at this point the leak still was not detected) she was so ill and had serious complications during this procedure which resulted in her needing to stay in I.C.U. because she was seriously ill. Eventually she was allowed home to stay with me and I noticed she was leaking. Only a week after leaving hospital I took her to her first outpatients appointment and only at this point did the consultant inform us that she had also contracted e-coli while in the hospital and the cause, reason or result on her health was never explained. I informed the consultant that my mum was in considerable pain, she was examined and she was admitted again. She had to undergo a further procedure to insert a neph tube and it was to be a temporary solution - that was December 08 - she has had it changed once and has had numerous dye scans and x-rays which are very painful to determine the status of this tube - she had to have a further operation to repair and replace part of her ureter as her kidney was working normal but she was still leaking - they said they where pleased with this procedure but needed to maintain the neph. tube as a precaution - she had a further dye scan 3 weeks ago which has detected another leak so she still has the neph. tube and is being made to wait again and see if the leak repairs itself but the neph. tube has now become infected and has stop working altogether, she has informed the urology dept but they seem to have no problem with this - it is now Aug 09 and there is no definite closure to this whatsoever - my mother is house bound, seriously depressed, seems to have given up and become almost child like as she promises me she has been drinking water when I ask her if she has had fluids that day. I think it is a huge decision to opt for this procedure and I believe doctors may on occasions use it as a method of putting of until tomorrow what they should be doing today - I know everyone’s circumstances are different and this procedure may be appropriate in some cases but I would urge anyone who has been advised this is the way forward to ensure their doctor has given them a definite date as to when they will have this removed as my mum has been put of so many times she is now extremely depressed which is contributing to her declining health and a further reason for the doctors to postpone correction as she is not prepared for it mentally. All my mum wants is to have her life back because although she is 70 she was quite active and enjoying her senior years until this all came about. Read up on this on different sites to ensure you are aware of the exact details, after care and complications that can arise.
21
Ashley
I am 23 weeks pregnant and just had a tube put in right kidney due to a 8 mm stone. I am supposed to get it changed every three weeks. Do i change the bandage myself in between that time and when i shower should i cover the bandage with a bag of some sort?
22
wendy
i am a 35 yr old woman I had nephrostomy tubes put in due to complications in surgery...I was diagnosed with stage 1a cervical cancer and had a radical hystorectomy with lymphnode removal. All the cancer was removed during surgery but both of my ureters were severly damaged. so i have tubes in both kidneys. I am scheduled for surgery next month to reconstruct my ureters. they are going to be taking part of my small intestines for the reconstruction.
Hi Linda Gibson,

My father goa a nephrostomy tube inserted for the same reason. He is yet to start chemo on 03-26-10, and radiation. What questions should we be asking?
had right flank pain for years. did have a small stone, so they thought. after lithotripsy x3 & hospitalized for complications of that i was still undiagnosed and stillthe stone was the same. after a year and a new urologist. the 4th one diagnosed me w a calyceal diverticulm w a stone. after a stent placed in the neck of the diverticulum was unsuccessful i now have a nephrostomy tube. my kidney pain is gone! my severe pain at my incision site is horrible but worth it. get different opinions not all drs are equal
whats the likelyhood of problems with nephrostomy tubes and bags during flying
26
norval willnot
I HAD A NEPHROSTOMY OP 2 WEEKS BUT AM STILL SUFFERING FROM ACUTE NAUSEA - HAS ANYONE ELSE HAD THIS PROBLEM?
I had a nephrostomy tube put in this past Saturday due to my ureter being cut during a hysterctomy in May. I'm having numbing sensation on both arms, I have sharp pains in my right kidney and the dr said I can go back to work this week. How long was it before some of you were able to go back to work?
My dad has had a nephrostomy on the monday just gone. he has a kidney stone blocking his urine from coming out. His kidney stone is over 1cm big and he has been in alot of pain. he has been sent home from the hospital today with the tube still in and will have to go back to the hospital too have the stone removed in a week or so (as soon as his kidney infection has gone) Does any one know how they take the tube out and will he have to have stitches on his kidney when the tube comes out!? thankyou for any help.
Hi, this is jocelyn..Am just asking regarding my sister in law who's having a cancer in cervix in she had started problem in her urine recently and started sore i think? they brought to hospital and the doctors say that she need this kind of cateter (nephrostomy) and she's still goin on her chemo and radition (she's in stage3).so how many days that she have it and there is any complication regarding on her goin chemo or radition? and one more question is..it is require to buying this bag for cateter or the hospital provided? thanks a lot.. I really appreciate.
30
Emily
In furtherance to the first comment, I am 27 weeks pregnant and just had to have nephrostomy tube inserted. I would up in the hospital for 5 days and all of the nurses said this is becoming a more common occurance (although I have never heard of any pregnant woman having it done!). It has been a tough recovery so far but am hoping this will alleviate all of the problems (bleeding, infections, constant right-side flank pain) I have been having through most of the pregnancy.
This is in response to Cindy Findlow. I had a double nephrostomy done about 2 years ago. This was due to radiation from cervical cancer. I had stents first, but developed MRSA and went into renal failure. Now I have 1 nephrostomy tube (1 is better than 2!!) Anyway, I nagged the doctors, and was finally told I could "cap" off the tube when I went swimming. Someone else has to do it for me, as I can't reach it. The doctor's office can give you the cap. You unscrew the tube as if you were changing it, and just screw in the cap. You can't dive or anything rough. Just get in the pool and relax. I play with my granddaughter on a raft, and have a ball! But you can only go in a clean swimming pool. No ocean, lakes, etc. as there is too much bacteria. You don't want it getting in your system through your insertion site on your back. This works for me. You have to be careful, but your mom should be able to do it. Check with her doctor.
To all pregnant women. I have had a Nephrostomy tube inserted after delivering my second child due to renal failure. Through my whole pregnancy i complained to my medical professionals of the pains on my right side and was constantly told it was just ligaments and muscles streching from where baby was growing. I presented to emergency department 12hrs after deliverying my baby and then spent the next four days on life support fighting for my life. For all the pregnant women with this procedure done i am so glad they have managed to find these problems early with you as the doctors weren't even sure my boys would still have a mummy my oldest is 4 and as i said my youngest was 12hrs old at the time.

I have been told my Nephrostomy needs to stay for another 4 weeks i am just wondering is the removal procedure painful, uncomfortable or do you just not feel it at all?
I have suffered from kidney problems most my life. I have been down to one kidney (right) since 81. I have also had my bladder and prostate removed in 91, due to recurrent infection from the left kidney that some how affected these organs. My prostate became hard and painful for years before removal and my bladded had interstitual cystitis (sp). A ten hour surgery was undertaken and ended up with an internal pouch made from my lower intestine. Procedeue went well but since then I have to cath myself to urinate. My problem now is that the ureter from right kidney has been colapsing causing severe pain in my kidney. This has happened several times since 95. Stents were used but would block or plug up. My only relief from agonizing pain was a nephrostomy tube coming out my back from the kidney. I now have the tube all the time and must have it replaced every 3 to 4 months. Surgery to replace the ureter is an option but I dont know if the tube is the best option for me. Does anyone have any advise that would help me deal with this situation? Thank you, Bill
my daughter had the exact problem. a tumor is blocking her ureter and the doctor, the doctor say there is no way to repair it or replace it with a stent. he said it would only start the tumor to growing. they had a stent in her at first and took it out and then she got sick and they had to insert the nephrosopy bag so now its just terrible.
How does it cost for the treatment by this process?
36
Sarah
I am curently 24 weeks pregnant. I had a nephrostomy tube placed at 20 weeks due to a 1.7 cm stone and a 1.5 cm stone. The doctors and radiologists had not seen them that big in person before. A nephrostomy tube was my only option. Since being originally placed, I have had to have two new ones. The first one lasted 11 days, the second 9 days. I now irrigate 3 times a day and it looks like I am going to be scheduled to have them changed every two weeks. I am not hopeful. My body is "dumping" a lot of calcium due to the pregnancy and it is clogging the tube. I hate the surprise of wondering when it will clog again. It is so frustrating and the day after I am usually sore. I can not wait for 6 weeks postpartum when they are able to work on the kidney stone and remove the tube. I am hoping for time to fly.
2008 I had operation for kidney stones because I was in pain and bleeding im been going down hill dont go to any urology they dont know what they are doing i went to eighteen doctor it 2011 i have urine bag tube in my back where my kidney is on the left side my bladder was destroy by them now that doesnt work i dont know how long i have to live the tube keep clogging now they want to see me every three months to replaced the tube in my lower back
I also had to have a tube inserted during pregnancy due to kidney stones! It was horrible they inserted the tube and it started working a couple days later it totally stopped draining so I went back in and they flushed it at the er then it slowed down went back in and they said I had passed the stone good news! When I went to get it removed I almost bled to death they tore something inside and I had to have 2 emergency blood transfusions and was taken to icu...not a fun experience!
39
jack
I HAVE CANCER AND HAVE A NEPHROSTOMY TUBE ( ONE -WAY) IT DOES NOT DRAIN INTO A BAG ,BUT GETS FLUSHED EVERY DAY, AND A STENT. IT WAS PUT IN FEB 14,2011 AND ON APRIL 14, 2011 I HAVE BEEN GETTING PAIN IN KIDNEY AREA AND PRESSURE FEELING LIKE I HAVE TO GO, BUT WHEN I TRY ONLY A COUPLE DRIPS COME OUT, OR I HAVE NO CONTROL OVER MY BLADDER. WHEN CHANGING MY DRESSING ON MY TUBE IT SMELLS LIKE URINE, AND IS DISCOLORED. WHAT COULD BE WRONG? IS THIS NORMAL?
I have had this tube placed for 6 weeks . The reason was for a bcg treatment. (cancer cells in urine) I also have arthritis
And receive immune suppressing meds. Still have feel a slight burning feeling after 6 months. Also notice bubbles in urine.
my niece has cervical cancer,also bladder cancer.She has had a stent put in to help her urinate. Both of her kidney's are blocked.They say she has stage four cancere,her vagina has mastisised. we are in a state of worry and cannot help her finically.Is there any hope for her recovery,the treatments have not started as yet and she is in her second month of discovery.
I'm 17 weeks pregnant and have a nephrostomy in the right kidney, last week experianced severe pain on the right side, thought it was yet another kidney stone trying to pass but when the pain got so bad we had to pull off the road and call for an ambulance, the ER ran tests and an ultrasound and found the right kidney is completely blocked, they addmited me and told me they wanted to give me a couple of days on IV fluids to see if the stone would pass on its own, it didnt so they did an MRI and found that the baby is pressing on the right uriter which trapped the stone in place, the urolagist then told me the only option was to have the nephrostomy because it was the safest option for me and my unborn baby, the day of the scheduled surgery i was sick, very sick from the kidney being blocked and backed up, when they did the nephrostomy i had no idea just how painful it would be to have the tube placed, i was in agony! I spent 5 days in the surgical unit, the nephfrostomy has been in place for 4 days now and im still in alot of pain from the surgery, they said this would be in place till after I have my baby, which is a very long time considering that i have to have this tube and bag till middle of December. I'm curiouse though as to those of you who state 'tube changes', what exactly is that? is that just the replacement of the bag and clear tube, or the entire thing, clear tube and tube that goes into the kidney? it was sooo agonizing when they put the tube in, i dont wanna go through THAT part again... also, any info anyone can give me about this i would be greatful, i have a feeling im in for a very long road ahead of me through this pregnancy with this nephrostomy... thanks for any advise and info thats provided!
I'm 17 weeks pregnant and have a nephrostomy in the right kidney, last week experianced severe pain on the right side, thought it was yet another kidney stone trying to pass but when the pain got so bad we had to pull off the road and call for an ambulance, the ER ran tests and an ultrasound and found the right kidney is completely blocked, they addmited me and told me they wanted to give me a couple of days on IV fluids to see if the stone would pass on its own, it didnt so they did an MRI and found that the baby is pressing on the right uriter which trapped the stone in place, the urolagist then told me the only option was to have the nephrostomy because it was the safest option for me and my unborn baby, the day of the scheduled surgery i was sick, very sick from the kidney being blocked and backed up, when they did the nephrostomy i had no idea just how painful it would be to have the tube placed, i was in agony! I spent 5 days in the surgical unit, the nephfrostomy has been in place for 4 days now and im still in alot of pain from the surgery, they said this would be in place till after I have my baby, which is a very long time considering that i have to have this tube and bag till middle of December. I'm curiouse though as to those of you who state 'tube changes', what exactly is that? is that just the replacement of the bag and clear tube, or the entire thing, clear tube and tube that goes into the kidney? it was sooo agonizing when they put the tube in, i dont wanna go through THAT part again... also, any info anyone can give me about this i would be greatful, i have a feeling im in for a very long road ahead of me through this pregnancy with this nephrostomy... thanks for any advise and info thats provided!
HUSBAND HAS INFECTION AT THE NEPHROSTOMY TUBE OPENING FOR THE PAST 4 DAYS BEEN TO THE DOCTOR TWICE AND HE SAYS ITS NTHING TO WORRY ABOUT CLEAN IT WITH PEROXIDE AND APPLY BACITRACIN. THIS TUBE HAS BEEN IN SINCE 6/17 FIRSTLY TO DRAIN KIDNEY FOLLOWED 2 WEEKS LATER BY BLASTING STONE IN THE URETER ON 6/27. NOW HE SAYS IT WILL BE IN FOR 2 WEEKS MORE THEN A DYE WILL BE GO THRU IT. MY WORRY IS THIS INFECTION HAS ANYONE HAD THIS OCCUR AND SHOULD I TAKE HIM TO THE ER i'M CONCERNED THAT THIS DR ISNT DOING RIGHT BY MY HUSBANC.
I had a Nephrostomy tube placed in after a surgery, then a stent placed about 3 weeks later to hold open my tube. I had it removed in April 2011. My concern is that I still have alot of pain and it has been 4 mths since they removed it. Is this normal, does anyone else have constant pain like this?
I had a nephrostomy tube in for 9 mths, 5 years ago. Due to a Doctor severing my ureter during surgery. I have cronic pain in my kidney and right flank that seams to get worse as time goes on. Has anyone experienced pain after having the nephrostomy taken out? I'm asuming this is scar tissue that is causing the pain!
I am 33yrs old and I've had over 20 kidney stones in the past two years. Now I have so much scar tissue in my right ureter that it's blocked. Every time my dr would take out my stent, I would get a bad infection and pain due to the blockage and emergency surgery to have another stent placed. A nephrostomy tube was just put in so that my ureter would have time to heal.. I will have the tube and bag for 8 weeks and after that the dr will be able to look at the ureter and see if it can be fixed. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to hide the tube and bag while out in public? I don't see how this velcro is going to secure the bag to my leg and i can't imagine it's comfortable?? If anyone has any feedback I'd really appreciate it.
I am 68 years old and had a nephrostomy tube put in early April this year after surgeon tried to put a long term stent in. Unfortunately, my kidney (I only have one) was blocked both ends so my only option was to have a nephrostomy tube which I guess I will have for the rest of my life. I was diagnosed with terminal bladder cancer in Dec 2009. Had radiation in Feb/March last year (2010) and it must have worked as the cancer has gone to sleep. So, I think I'm lucky as all I have to put up with is a bag and I'm getting used to that. Have been given some sprockets to use when I go swimming. Not allowed in public pools or heated ones because of infection. Have had wonderful support from the Hospital, District Nurses etc.
49
Steph
My husband had bilateral nephrostomies placed 12/2010 because pelvic radiation for rectal cancer had strictured both ureters enough that, despite bilateral stents, his creatinine levels were rising dangerously and he was having hydronephrosis in his kidneys. He has had 70 hyperbaric oxygen treatments and had double stents placed in each ureter. We'll be testing out his function soon. Already, the left side is draining very little and he is urinating normally much more. We are having continuing battles with keeping the skin around the insertion site healthy...it is irritated from the tape and the seepage. Thinking about switching to ultra absorbent wound dressings rather than just the drain sponge and gauze. Not sure if insurance will cover them and are too expensive to pay out of pocket. Any tips on wound dressing would be appreciated. Also, we bought 3 of Vicki Timmons' Nephrostomy Comfort Belts and they've been really helpful in managing the tubing, getting around and dressing normally.
50
Steph
My husband had bilateral nephrostomies placed 12/2010 because pelvic radiation for rectal cancer had strictured both ureters enough that, despite bilateral stents, his creatinine levels were rising dangerously and he was having hydronephrosis in his kidneys. He has had 70 hyperbaric oxygen treatments and had double stents placed in each ureter. We'll be testing out his function soon. Already, the left side is draining very little and he is urinating normally much more. We are having continuing battles with keeping the skin around the insertion site healthy...it is irritated from the tape and the seepage. Thinking about switching to ultra absorbent wound dressings rather than just the drain sponge and gauze. Not sure if insurance will cover them and are too expensive to pay out of pocket. Any tips on wound dressing would be appreciated. Also, we bought 3 of Vicki Timmons' Nephrostomy Comfort Belts and they've been really helpful in managing the tubing, getting around and dressing normally.
I was diagnosed with a 5mm kidney stone in early august the pain was unberable. I was sent home with pain medication and 12 days later I was admited to a local hospital wheere I underwent surgery to have the stone removed, something whent wrong and I was having an emergency Nephrostomy. after 6 weeks I developed an infection and I was urinating blood and blood clots.
8 weeks later I still don't know when the nephrostomy tube will be removed. The kidney stone still remains where it was to begin with. I feel lost and have very little faith on the local health care. Every day I experience extreme pain. I feel for all those people that have this problem..
52
JoAnne
I am a 61 year old relatively healthy female. Due to a congenital problem my ureters are very narrow and twisted. My right kidney is now non-functional and my left kidney is functioning at approx. 39%. Last month I was hospitalized with very high blood pressure. Subsequent tests showed my right ureter was very twisted causing urine to back-up into my kidney. My urologist performed a cysto and ureterscopy to try and untwist the ureter. Part of the ureter closest the the kidney was unreachable so a stent was inserted to keep open as much of the ureter as possible. My blood pressure did decrease quite a bit. Now my urologist wants me to have a Nephrostomy. The tube will say in for approx.one month. Then she will perform a ureterscopy to attach a stent, I believe, to the Nephrostomy tube allowing the ureter to be untwisted and opened from end to end. Has anyone out there had this done or even heard of it? In other words, the Nephrostomy tube coming down from the top of my kidney/ureter and the stent coming in from the bottom of my ureter, meeting and being attached in the middle of my ureter allowing the ureter to be open and untwist. I'm very frightened of this procedure and worried that it won't work. Has any body heard of this? Your comments are greatly appreciated.
53
Daisy
I am 24 weeks pregnant and just recently had the neo tube placed in my back due to the major obstruction from my large stone in my right kidney. I had complained for days about my pain and the response I received was simply braxton hicks. I know my body and when something is not right, I asked for futher testing and finally a Dr. listened to my out cry for help and realized all too late that I had Kidney Stones and due to the time that elapsed, there was no other option but the tube. My kidney had swollen like a balloon. I am concerned because I has a CT Scan while 24 weeks pregnant (with no contrast or dye) and was wondering if that was harmful to my unborn child?! I made that hasty decision because surgery to remove the stones was on the table. The tube has caused a lot of pain, complications, and infections...but the results of the CT scan were not useful..should I undergo more radiation? I am really scared and concerned for my unborn child..pleade help me.
My sister had kidney cancer and they removed part of her kidney. Then she developed a hernia and they went in to repair it. The remaining part of the kidney had enveloped a floating rib and during the hernia repair they nicked her kidney. Her kidney has been leaking into her body for months. They have put a stent in, she wore a cathetar for 8 weeks, now they want to but a nephrostomy tube in. She is also wearing a drainbag that is inserted in the skin. Can the kidney not be stitched up? Will it ever heal or would she be better having the kidney removed? She is 59 years old.
My Dad had nephrostomy tubes left in for 7 weeks. They removed them 2 weeks agod and we just had to rush him to emergency. He started getting sick a few days after the tubes were removed - and now is very ill. Could the tubes have been left in to long. They are thinking his current condition is due to an abscess at the incision site. They have him on an IV drip now. From everything I was reading the tubes should have been changed long before they were. The rationale was that he was having a cystectomy and they wanted to make sure that was all in order before removing the tubes. Turns out the tubes themselves may have put him in a very bad state.
My mother is 77 yrs old and has bi-lateral nephrostomy tubes (for approx 1 yr now). She continues to get UTIs, bacterial and fungal. Everytime she gets the UTI, we are off to the hospital for a minimal of 2-3 weeks; she comes home for 1 week and we are back to the hospital with another UTI. The hospital called in a specialist with the Infectious and Disease Control Ctr however he gave no solution for the problem other than bring her back as need and they will continue to treat with antibiotics.
I have had a nephrostomy tube put in January for a bcg treatment I also have rheumatoid arthritis the bcg did not agree with me. I still have cancer cells in my urine but no more bladder cancer. My problem is I now have this terrible pain at night after I am asleep for a few hours. Every time I try to turn over I cry out in pain it is in my lower left groin. Now is seems to be effecting my left leg as well. I had a large cyst removed 6 years age from this side and I do not think it could be scar tissue after all this time. Once I am up it almost goes away. Doctors can give me no answer, I have had a ct ultrasound and a colonoscopy ..No reason found.. could the tube cause nerve damage? I have a cysacope ever three months for the bladder cancer and cancer cells. I also go in hospital for biopsy of the left kidney twice a year.
i just posted a message has any one ever had this happen after the tube was taken out or has any one have an answer for me. I am trying to be my own doctor since no one can give me any help .it started very slight in febuary I thought i had just pulled something. now it is acute.
still have cancer cells but they can not find out where they are coming from. ...help if you have any ideas...thanks
59
umakant
my son 5 year old, doctor suggest nephrostomy. right know no infection there. left side reflex Grade III. kindly advise for risk and after nephrostomy care.
60
Geralyn
My sister was diagnosed with Cervical cancer in the 4th stage and had radiation and chemo and than they sugeested that she have it done shot into her system. She did and it did damage to her kidney. She has 2 stents for her veins because they damaged the veins and every 2-3 months she has to have them changed. She had them changed on Dec. 1st and last night on Dec. 31st she became very sick, they clogged up again. Is there foods that she should not be eating and why are they making her so sick and why is the time changing constantly on her. Could you please advise me on what to do to help her. The surgeon's say that it has nothing to do with the food and everyone's body is different to accept foreign products in us.
61
Carl
Very informative article. I get a better understanding of this now as my dad had one installed two days ago. Great Job explaining!
62
Ron Thompson
I recently was a patient at Methodist Hospital in Dallas. I was the "happy" recipient of a nephrostomy bag! I go for my follow-up on March 5, 2012. I am a little be nervous about the appointment. I am hoping that the tube will be removed. I am not having any trouble urinating; I still have stones. Will they put me under to remove the tubes? Someone please answer me truthfully.



Thanks.
63
Alice
Wow- what a horrible nightmare so many of us are going thru-- My husband was told he needed a kindney stent Sept/11- due to tumor pressing his uterer- finally Dr. tried replacing it last week 02/12 and he couldn't get new one in. it was suggested he get the percutaneos nephrostomy tube placed next day- new Dr. drained kidney (stent wasn't draining it- no explanation) and was unsuccessful at placing PN tube/wire after 3 attempts. Husband is home, no tube, no stent, in pain and is told to come back next weeks so he can try again. Not sure if he should try this again or not? We live in a small town where we have to travel by ferry- 2hrs and then drive about an hour further. Should we be going ahead with this? try and get another opinion? get the kidney removed? We don't even know why the stent wasnt working to start with- husband has metastic colon cancer.
64
erin
i am a 30 yr old female and have been suffering from stones and infections for 12 years now. I have had over 1000 stones in my lifetime. My right kidney currently has a nephrostomy tube, been in place for 8 months now and have had 7 swaps of the tube. The right ureter is completely closed off by scar tissue and the kidney its self is barely functioning. About a month ago i started 2 get stones and infections in the left kidney which terrifies me. I have been waiting and waiting for a nephrectomy of my right kidney so that i can try to prevent further damage to my left but i have no insurance and have to be seen at our county hospital and treatment there is taking forever. When i was pregnant i had a double nep cause my tube got stuck so i can relate to all you pregnant moms on here, i ended up with sepsis after they removed both tubes. Currently i recently underwent another cystoscopy on my left to remove a lodged stone and wound up with horrid bladder spasams after the removal of a stent. (i personally hate stents, especdially if it is implanted on a regular basis, they rip u up internally after 50 or so thats why my ureter is now shot i believe, that and my excessive amount of stones.) So this morning i awoke to horrid scraping pain in my right flank. Went to drain my bag and realized it was full of a whitish, greenish, bloody stringy discharge. I dont know what is going on internally but whatever it is its bad. Its sad that we live in the best country in the world for healthcare, but the people who really need it dont get it. .. I am just hopping and praying my left one will heal and function normally oncde i finally get the right removed, but the damage may already be done.
65
erin
in reference to an earlier asked q about removal of a nephrostomy, normally it is proceedure for them to put you under for the installation of a nep tube but removal is different. i have been awake for almost all my tube removals but they use a lot of local anestitic (sorry i butchered the spelling) and the most you will feel is tugging or slight, slight discomfort. if there is a complication, like calculus build up on the tube, it will be more painful, but since your tube hasnt been in long i wouldnt expect too much build up. if your pregnant there is an increased risk of build up and pregnant patients should have their tubes examined on a regular basis so they dont go thru what i went thru. but all in all, removal of a nephrostomy is relatively painless. you will have some discomfort for a few days after removal, but it should be able tgo be controled by whatever pain meds they give you upon discharge. also there might be some discharge from the incision site, but that is normal. if the discharge becomes thick or changes color, contact your doc, could be signs of an infection.
66
erin
in reference to an earlier asked q about removal of a nephrostomy, normally it is proceedure for them to put you under for the installation of a nep tube but removal is different. i have been awake for almost all my tube removals but they use a lot of local anestitic (sorry i butchered the spelling) and the most you will feel is tugging or slight, slight discomfort. if there is a complication, like calculus build up on the tube, it will be more painful, but since your tube hasnt been in long i wouldnt expect too much build up. if your pregnant there is an increased risk of build up and pregnant patients should have their tubes examined on a regular basis so they dont go thru what i went thru. but all in all, removal of a nephrostomy is relatively painless. you will have some discomfort for a few days after removal, but it should be able tgo be controled by whatever pain meds they give you upon discharge. also there might be some discharge from the incision site, but that is normal. if the discharge becomes thick or changes color, contact your doc, could be signs of an infection.
67
erin
and for the woman whos husband is suffering, i would suggest you go back in. If he has a tumor pressing on his ureter, that will prevent a stent from being able to access it and slide thru easily. I can sympathize with all the pain and discomfort he must be experiencing, but there needs to be proper drainage of the kidney, otherwise calculus will build, infections could form, a blockage could occur, ultimately resulting in damage to the affected kidney. I am not a fan of stents, i believe thru personal experience, that they do more damage than good if they are being used long term, bmy best advise would be to try the tube placement againh and hopefully they will be sucessful this time. But please dont leave him the way he is now, go to ur follow up and beg them tol find a way to get either a nep tube or a stent. Sorry my posts keep repeating this site doesnt like my security answers for some reason
for the sister, i have had my stent clog very rapidly like that. There was most likely a build up internally and when they changed the stent it all tried to come out, resulting in the stent getting clogged. If this is a long term problem i would suggest a nep tube, repeated stent placement can cause scar tissue build up and can create a blockage on its own. I hope that everyone gets the help that they need! Btw, the doc was right about diet, you can try limiting salt intake, red meats, and caffiene but the results will probably end up the same. If anything i would suggest a cranberry supplement and lots and lots and lots of water!!
69
erin
little update: tomorrow i am going in for my 8th tube replacement, so long as the hospital decides to go thru with it despite the infection i am positive i have. Two weeks and the infection is back, this is how its been for at least two years. The day after that i am supposed to see the urologist at cook county, going to push and push for my long overdue nephrectomy. Hope everything turns out the way i desprately need it to. My mind is a mess, i either feel like screaming or crying from being constantly trapped because of the pain and infection. I just want my life back...
70
Shana
My husband had a tumor on his left urether develop after stage IV colon cancer. He had a stint put in first and then they later added the tube procedure (nephrostomy). He is half way through his 6 months of chemo but the stint and tube won't be removed until the summer time. They wanted to make sure the chemo killed the cancer before removing the tube and stent. My husband really wants the tube and bag gone. It is a pain as he goes to the bathroom the regular way and has to empty a bag, also! Anyone else have this problem? He had a colon resection Oct. 2010 and a HIPEC surgery last July after 6 months of chemo in 2011. His CEA has risen to 51.4.
71
Vicki C. Timmons
I read all of the heartbreaking testimonies on this page, and I can't help to think the T-NCB
I made for my dear husband, could help so many others. I'd like to submit to this forum,so all could see there is something out there to make the patient more comfortable. My product is mention on this page.I've sold belts across the USA and in other countries. The testimonies I recieve bring tears to my eyes, because I know how people suffer with these types of obstructive catastrophic processes.Look me up on the internet.

Vicki,
72
Johanna
I have a nephrostomy in my right kidney, due to my ureter being cut during a abdominal hysterectomy, the nephrostomy was capped three days ago, but since it was capped, i get pain in my kidney whenever i urinate. I
why is this? i am very worried.
73
lynne platt
I had a large kidney stone, staghorn stone 6cm, on my left kidney. I have had two pcnl operations to remove it, but there is still 3cm left. I have had a stent in for five months from my kidney to my bladder awaiting further surgery. For the last couple of months i have been unwell with kidney infections. Today the doctor said i have mrsa detected through urine sample. got antibiotics but im stressed out about it can some body please reassure me im okay and was it the stent being left in too long that has caused this thankyou
74
Kelly
Hi I'm Kelly I'm 19 and I have had my nephrostomy tube in since November 8th, so for about 6 weeks. Previously, I had a pyleoplasty surgery to remove a UPJ obstruction in my left kidney. About a month after the surgery, when the stent was taken out, I had to rush back to the hospital because I was in unbelievable pain. It turns out that my ureter had swelled up and was blocked, yet again. They put in a nephrostomy tube to drain my kidney (I was awake during the procedure and lost a dangerous amount of blood, almost leading to a blood transfusion.) Anyway, I really would like to go back to college, since I have had to ale a medical leave for this past fall semester. How have you all found the best way to dress with your tube and bag under your clothes? I still haven't been able to find the perfect way I don't think. Thank you!
I would like to thank Erin for all your information and encouraging words- I am the same Alice that posted back almost a year ago now (post 63) we did go back the following week and the nephrostomy tube was placed successfully- it has been changed several times now and I am an old pro at doing the site changes, we are adjusting to life with "the tube" as we call it- funny how we have nick names for all the parts but I guess that's what one does to make the best of a bad situation. We do have our fair share of problems with it- mostly reoccuring infections- and the tube coming out of position as well- which means an emergency ferry trip to the Island- at least when we get there they know what we are talking about- the doctors in our small town have thanked me for educating them on the tube and how it works. It looks like hubby has this baby in for life- they can't remove the tumor blocking the ureter- he had a recent biopsy and ct scan to see what's happening there- thankfully it is really slow growing and that it is the same as his other colon cancer- for a bit they thought it might be an new type of cancer.
To Shana- our husbands are in the same situation- having one working kidney and one with the tube- with metastatic colon cancer- My hubby had his colon resected almost 5 years ago- has had 3 other tumors removed surgically (they were more on the inside of his belly- not in the colon) he has done oral chemo on and off over the last 5 years-his numbers have gone up and down like a yo-yo and then our medical system has changed testing protocols for CEA and now we are in a real state of not understanding much (again) but it looks like his numbers are the highest they've been as of 3 weeks ago- he is so sick of being sick- we aren't giving up hope tho- we do have an appointment with the cancer center in Vancouver in 2 weeks to see if there isn't something that can be done to get rid of this tube and bag-
To Kelly- the best thing is dress to feel comfortable- loose clothing- hubby wears nice track pants with a leg back - and then he tucks the bottom into his sock- for his dressing we have a stat-loc mounted on a sticky butterfly looking patch- and then I use sterile gauze under the tube before it goes into the stat loc- and place another guaze over the tube - it is all held down with a large Tega-derm clear patch- and then we just tape the tube down in one more place on his hip. About 6 inches down the tube there is like a stop-cock thing that I wrap cotton or guaze around and tape it up so that it doesn't dig into his skin-

I hope the New Year was good to you all- and that it finds you in good health- this was so scary to start with and now that we have had to deal with it for a year it isn't- this site was very helpfull- thank-you-
If I can be of any help to anyone don't be afraid to email me and ask- there are no embarssing questions when it comes to your health! Even if you just need to hear that it's going to be ok, or that something is "normal" or if you are scared- I will try and help-
76
Sandy
I have found this site so informative. Thanks to everyone of you. I need advise!
My issue is that I am constantly in the hospital for a severe kidney infection, even though I have been on antibotics for two years. I have a great urologist but I feel Im getting know where. My problem is that I had to have a hysto 6 yrs ago and I ended up in the hospital for 8 weeks and 5 surgeries later, because of infection and blood clots. After spending this Christmas in the hospital and away from my three beautiful children (Im a single Mom) I was told that I may loose my right kidney because it was swollen really bad, as well as all the tissue around it. I have had so many test ran and they show nothing is wrong. My dr said that there is no test that will show scar tissue. So both me and my doctor both feel like I have scar tissue that is blocking my ureter. Something HAS to be done to fix the problem because I'm not capable of being the best Mom I can be and the pain is unbearable. Everytime I have to "pee", I have to push extremely hard and most of the time I'm not even successful at being able to release any urine. I leave the restroom completely exausted and have a bad headache. I just had brain surgery 4 wks ago and Im scared that with me grunting to pee, that Im gonna mess up sumthing in my brain because I push so hard and I feel the pressure in my head.


What do you feel would work best for me? I really dont want a stint because I have friends with horror stories but I've never heard of a nephrectomy, urotersopy, nephrostomy, nor a neph tube. I had to miss my last urology appt because of my brain surgery but I'm excited to discuss these options with him. I would love for you to give me all your advise too. All of you have lived with this issue and my dr preforms the procedure but hasnt had to deal with this on a personal level. IM BEGGING FOR YOUR ADVISE SO PLEASE EMAIL ME. I ONLY HAVE A WEEK SO PLEASE REPLY QUICKLY! All of you will be in my prayers. God Bless You All!
77
Kim
Just trying to find out if anyone has had nerve damage from a nephrostomy? Had the nephrostomy in March 2012 and just had a spinal nerve stimulator put in March 2013 which is believed to be from the Nephrostomy.
78
charm
I'm 33, and had a nephrostomy done when my ureter got cut during an abdominal hysterectomy. The stent placement failed due to the ureter being collapsed at the damaged site. So now I have to get my ureter reattached to my bladder. But I have to wait about month or two for that to happen because the doc wants the swelling and bleeding to go down from the hysterectomy through its incision before they go back
In. the tube in my right kidney is uncomfortable and always tender.i don't have pain when i urinate just discomfort and tender pressure on the bladder. I make sure i drink plenty of water because i don't want any tops of urinary problems from drinking soda and stuff. Cranberry juice is good too. To Joanna, the hospital gave me extra drain bags, so if you ever go back ask your nurse for so extra bags. To Kelly, wear long maxi dresses hides everything well. God bless us all who ate going through this. Its hard and frustrating, i look forward to my permanent removal.
79
Helena
I had cervical cancer 4 years ago, had a radical hysterectomy and radiation treatment. Damage was done to the ureter by the treatment , a stent was used to solve the problem but after 6 stents which were not a success I now have a nephrostomy drain which is better. The tube has to be changed every 6 months. I have been told that other surgical options in my case would have a high failure rate. As the kidney is reasonable good they believe it worth saving so I do not have any option but to continue as I am. Most days I experience some level of pain but at least my frequent visits to A&E have stopped. I can only hope that as the years go by they will develop new superior ways to solve our problems. Thanks to all who have posted their experience .
80
susan
MY LEFT SIDE IS NOT PRODUCING ANY URINE IT HAS NOT SINCE SUNDAY EVENING I JSUT HAD THE TUBES CHANGED LAST WEDNESDAY WHAT SHOULD I DO? i HAVE HAD MY TUBES FOR A YEAR NOW THEY HAVE ALWAYS HAD URINE IN BOTH OF THEM.
81
connie
My 90 year old father has kidney tumours. He has been living indepently for 2 years since his diagnoses, but was hospitalized 2 weeks ago. He now has a cathater but the doctors are suggesting a nephrostomy tube. I know this would mean that his previously independent life would be over, he would have to go to a nursing home and from what I have read, the tubes are painful and life altering. I am so afraid that if I agree to this, I briefly prolong his life, but it will have no quality. If we do not do this, his will eventually go into pallitive care. I am afraid that if I agree to this,I will not be helping him have a comfortable, dignified passing which is what he wants. I want to do the best thing for him and I am so afraid of making the wrong choice. I have to make a decision quickly.
82
Terry
I have an 18yrs old female( only child) and we have been battling kidney stones , gallbladder stones, reflux, tumors in bladder, since 8yrs old . She has had nephrostomy tubes and stent more so on right kidney. This last nephrostomy tube was removed after 1 month soon as it was removed in her Drs office we were sent to ER she had lots of pain at sight n shortness of breath do to pain she was admitted to hospital for 3 days. Evidently as tube was removed kidney was irritated
And affected the diaphragm 1 wk later she still having trouble breathing completely cuzz it hurts her in. Her shoulder n chest area( I shall repeat this occured following her tube removal. Drs is saying it will get better granted she has been dealing with pains since 8yrs old. PLEASE Advise. We live in n county San Diego.
83
Cindy
My sister has just had nephrostomy tubes put in her back 3 wks ago. She has a tumor which is cancer and it shutting off urine to be passed the ureter tubes. They put internal stints in ,but the cancer squeezed them off.She is having chemo now trying to kill off this cancer. My Question is how do others deal with all these tubes,and try to have a regular life style.
Could you give me some advice to get her sprits up and that she can do the things she loves.She thinks she has lost all parts of life cause she says this is not living. Thank You so much , Cindy
84
Maxine Sparling
My husband had his bladder removed june 11, 2014. A c-scan said he had a blockage where they joined the ureter from his right kidney to the piece of small intestant. They are going to put a right nephrostomy tube, right ureteral stent and angioplasty in Sept 23. Just like to have some information on this. Thanks
85
jerri wennerberg
I had a nephrostomy in may to prepare for removal of staghorn kidney stones, and the pain was absolutely unbearable. no amount of morphine was helping. I was crying and vomiting and in absolute misery. I could barely stand up to get dressed to go home. The pain was just subsiding 3 days later when I went in for my surgery and then the agony started all over again. Has anyone else experienced this kind of pain with this procedure?
86
Pat Stinnett
I had stage 3c ovarian cancer and am on my 4th round of chemo. Due to pressure placed on the tube from my kidney to my bladder my right kidney wasn't draining completely. I had a stent put in to facilitate proper drainage. The stent is very painful on a daily basis. The doctor said that very thin people experience a lot more pain but this should subside. It has been 2 weeks since the stent was inserted and the pain is still really bad(feels like the worlds worst bladder infection). Has anyone had this experience and did it get better?
87
Laura
Response to Pat: I also am dealing with 3c ovarian cancer and a lymph node pressing on my ureter. I also found a stent extremely painful (I am also thin). I recently had a nephrostomy tube placed. It is very comfortable compared to the stent. I can exercise and overall like it much better than the stent. The 'pain' part is dealing with how to wear it. I am dealing with clips, etc. and trying to figure out how to deal with during the summer months and light clothing.
88
Iniabell Gallardo
My mother is 73 and just had several tumor removed and a hysterectomy in May. She was diagnosed with metastic colon cancer 2 years ago and this is her 2nd surgery. She had her colon resected and her right kidney removed during her first surgery . She has a nephrostomy that was put in June 7th 2015, it's been a month and doctor said he could not remove it and she may have to live with it. The tube itself is not a problem other than an inconvenience but mom complains of pain on her mid back down the hips to the knee on her left side which is where the tube is. She hasn't started chemo yet as I am relocating her to live with me. I am concerned, she doesn't eat, barely walk and easily becomes fatigued. She has lost 25 pounds since her surgery and just wants to sleep. My biggest worry is that this tube hasn't been changed and the urine seems to be getting thicker and darker. Doctors tells me everything is okay but I can't understand the level of pain she is experiencing. I have read many of the posts looking for someone who is experiencing the same. Alice 75, looks like your hubby and my mom have a lot in common. I could use some guidance, anything anyone can suggest to make life easier for my mom.
89
NephrostomyMum
I am currently 27 years old and 33 weeks pregnant. I was diagnosed with a UPJ obstruction in my right ureter last October after being admitted to hospital with in unbearable right flank pain,fever and riddled with infection. They said the obstruction is a build up of scar tissue right were my ureter connects to the kidney and is already narrow. They immediately drained the kidney and inserted a urethral stent to relieve the blockage temporarily until I could have corrective surgery. I'm blown away that it look them 26 years to find this problem in the first place since I've been in and out of hospitals from the age of 2 with reoccurring UTIs and small exploratory procedures, and kidney infections. I was scheduled for surgery to cut and repair the ureter completely laparoscopically using robotics but found out I was pregnant only weeks before. Due to that and the fact I was not willing to terminate the pregnancy, my surgery has been postponed until months after I give birth.
My first stent was placed in October 2014 and failed by January 2015... That stent was removed and replaced and then failed again in May 2015 , so was removed and replaced again. The pain became unbearable by July 2015 but no surgeon would touch me as I was 28 weeks pregnant. My obstetrician was beyond concerned as I had started going into preterm labour due to the sever pain and constant infections caused by the stent and calcification. She was able to pull some strings and had a urologist remove my stent in August 2015 but he refused to put in a Nephrostomy tube as I was too high risk and not his patient. At that point I didn't care and just needed that stent out. His first attempt to pull it out and he backed off saying it was too stuck and he couldn't. I begged and cried for him to please try again and he did. I felt my kidney being pulled through my body, the pain had me screaming and in tears but it was out. The doctor and nurse both looked horrified at the sight of the stent that was just removed. The calcification build up had encrusted the tube so badly that it was not working and had nearly tripled the stent in size.
I ran to the bathroom immediately with a overwhelming urge to urinate finally. What I thought was going to feel amazing put me in even more pain and tears. I was left for 2 days to pee out the left behind debris and calcification build up. I could feel it shredding and blocking my insides as I bled more than I urinated just trying to pee them out. A nurse described it as passing between 50-70 sharpened kidney stones within a 3 day period. I thought my child and I were going to die. Finally I went back to emerg and was admitted. I was in surgery to have the Nephrostomy placed the next afternoon. So far so good with it. I cannot believe the relief I have down below. The discomfort and inconvenience caused by this tube is well worth it compared to those dreaded kidney stents! Needless to
Say this is the worst pregnancy every and I can't wait to
Finally have this baby, get my ureter repaired and have this tube out. I don't even Remember what having my own body is like anymore. I've been living with these foreign objects and a growing child for almost a year now and gone through hell. Almost there!!!
90
NateV
Nephrostomy Tube was placed on Oct 7th. All but a small amount of a massive stone was removed through tube Oct 8th. Remaining portion of the stone was broken up with sonic waves Nov 4th. Sometime during the night of Nov 10th the tube stopped draining and hasn't drained even a small amount since.

I contacted my Urological Surgeon Nov 11th and was told the tube needed flushed, to come into the office. They tried flushing the tube, but it didn't work. Was sent to another hospital for an Nephrostogram.

The Radiology Surgeon did the procedure with Contrast injected through the tube and said everything seems normal, but there appears to be a small piece of stone lodged in the tube. Was sent home.

The tube still isn't working, at all.

When the tube was placed, it was drilled into my head that if the tube stopped draining I needed to contact the Doctor A.S.A.P. because something was wrong. All the discharge papers stated if the tube stopped working to contact the Doctor A.S.A.P.

My tube stops working, I call the Doctor, and they seem to be treating it like it's no big deal, and nothing has been done.

I'm scared that I'm going to die now.
91
LauraMB
I am a 44 year old (healthy, thank God) female whose body dropped a 12mm stone in November which became lodged in the lower portion of my ureter. Nephrostomy tube in place, I have had 3 lithotripsy treatments. Each procedure has cut down the size of the stone. Today I go for a nephrostogram to see if the last lith worked. I want to reach out to all of the people who have commented on this site. Your stories make me feel better to know that there are others with the similar situations. I have been through several UTIs, and out of work as an elementary teacher, not wanting to risk being hit/bumped/ found out that I have a "bag of pee on my leg". Sick days used up, no matter what they say today, looks like I am going back... bag and all. I remain hopeful that my journey changes today. My prayers and thoughts are with those who endure the inconvenience and pain of KUB complications. I have learned to ADVOCATE for myself. Ask. Ask. Ask. Don't hold back questions! At one point, I called the interventional radiology department that inserted the tube with a question. They were very kind to help me. Don't worry about bothering anyone, it's your health! Another resource was my insurance company. Many of them have "patient advocates". Believe me, they don't want to spend any more money than they have to, so they will help you find a resource/solution to your question/challenge.
92
KATH
I am wondering if having a nephrostomy tube removed painful?
93
frank arena
how is a catheter drain a couples of day before changing the tube
94
Sioux
I had a nephrostomy a few weeks ago due to my ureter being damaged during a hysterectomy. I am finding it really painful to sit or sleep comfortably as it feels like the tube is pulling. Any tips on how to cope with this please?
I have also lost control of my bladder so I'm peeing all the time and have to use pads. Will this get any better and go back to normal?
Any replies appreciated.
95
Debra
I have had a nephrostomy tube since 2009. My left kidney died and my right kidney itself is obstructed by scar tissue from past surgeries. I use a special drsg made by Merit Medical. It is called stay fix. It has a butterfly like flap that secures the tube and prevents it from going in and out of the site. It has made sitting and moving about much less painful. Infection seems to go hand in hand with having a foreign body in your kidney. Infection can contribute to urinary incontinence. I have my tube exchanged every 2-3 months. I get conscious sedation due to extreme pain. i am told my level of pain is unusual. May my experience help someone else.
96
Sioux
Thanks Debra, I'll ask my doc about the stay fix. Sorry to hear you have had your tube for so long. I don't think I could have coped with that.
97
kathy
My daughter recently had a nephrostomy tube put in ( 3 weeks) I understand the reason for the tube, but my question is the tube insertion point is darning a yellow pus at first, it was just a small amount changing the dressing once a day. Now it is draining so much the dressing has to be changed every 2 hours. She is in extreme pain. The urologist says it is normal for some kind of drainage. Should we be going to a kidney doctor. This all started because she has a staghorn kidney stone 19 mm x 9 mm. I do not live in the same state as my daughter. I just don't understand Can anyone give me any advice
98
Barbara Smith
Kathy, drainage around the nephrostomy tube to the point of changing the dressing every two hours is extreme. This would indicate a problem with possible infection, improper nephrostomy tube placement, and the possibility of nephrostomy tube has been dislodged from kidney. All these circumstances need to be taken seriously and for your daughter to seek medical treatment immediately. I do hope that your daughter is doing much better now.
99
Christine
I had a nephrostomy tube placed due to endometriosis blocking my ureter and making my kidney larger than what is suppose to be. It's only suppose to be in for a week and will be taken out this coming Friday however the muscle pain in my back is horrific! When I was in the outpatient radiology dept., they told me how to take care of the catheter and to rest but what they forget to mention was 1. drink plenty of fluids (the obvious), 2. Don't sleep on the operative sight (again obvious), 3. and they don't give out pain meds! Though I admit, at first it wasn't so bad but the more you move the more your muscles clench up and the pain starts to increase ten fold to where it's impossible to sleep, sit or lay back!!
100
Deborah
I have had my tube, which is permanent, for 21/2 years. It is getting clogged up more and more and I have to go in and get it changed. Any suggestions on what I should eat or do to keep it from clogging up?
101
Ekaterina
My father is 87 diagnosed with bladder cancer (removal not possible due to his health condition). 10 days ago he developed pain in upper side of his belly and through ultrasound examination we understood his left kidney is not able to get rid of urine as cancer blocked the way. We are told nephrostomy tube is the only option to prolong his life. He hardy moves (someone is constantly with him, helping to move around) and when gets aggressive when he is told he might need some micro medical involvment. I am afraid the tube will make his life even less quality with constant problems (can not even imagine how he can safely sleep with the tube). Is there any other solution? for example removing left kidney as the right one fully operates. If we leave him like this - what will happen net? I do not know how long he is left to leave with his progressively advancing cancer but I would like to make sure his life does not become a hell. Will be grateful for any advise
102
ralu
I had an open surgery to remove kidney stone from my left kidney on 15/08/2017.a nephrostomy tube was inserted as well and a catheter to my bladder.after the surgery urine stopped passing from the bladder but continously through the left nephrostomy tube with alot of drainage always soaking up my bed.the surgeon came in two days later and said i needed to go in again for another surgery four days later to repair the left ureter as the stone damaged it.afterward a stent was inserted in addition to the nephrostomy tube.however two weeks after,urine is yet to come out through the bladder,the doctors are confused as to why urine is not coming from the right kidney to the bladder as there was nothing wrong with the right kidney and it was not worked on.they also claim that by 6 days post surgery even the left ureter should have healed and urine should be reducing from the nephrostomy tube and moving through the ureter to the bladder.no urine yet through the bladder after two weeks except about ten drops on day 7 post operation. I have been moved to a specialist who says i will be observed for 21 days after surgery before i can do another IVU scan to ssee what's really going on.ultasound scans and blood and urine tests shows that both kidneys are functioning optimally. The doctors just need urine to pass through the bladder i have been taking alot of fluids.should i be worried andd what should I do next?
Thank you for this page. It made it so much clearer for me to understand the procedure, and the tube. Mine will be removed in two weeks. The tube wss placed in me after a pcnl surgery to remove a 2cm and a 5 mm stone that were lodged in my left kidney. Thanks so much again.
104
Dan Sullivan
Tumor of bladder at 2 years old urostomy bag until 14 / Mitrofanoff false ,bladder from 14 until around 28 ,Two bouts of Peritonitis , Heart transplant Dec 2008 so am on anti rejecetion meds resulting in a shoddy immune system but doing well coming upto 36 years now , been living on and off with bilateral double neph tubes both sides CKD 3/4 due to kidneys starting to pack in and having little to no ureters on both sides due to an op to fix blockages in the ureters ,my only option is to revert back to a urostomy but i am currently stable and there are no guarantees with that operation either, big catch 22 i`m sure i talk for many , currently stable , I have gone through so many procedures and operations and still do throughout my life i have honestly lost count , Heart Biopsy ouch lol ,Sepsis infections utis etc etc you name it, not that keen on the neph tubes had them tracked twice both sides in 2 years and they both occasionally play up resulting in me having to go to Hospital to have them realigned , its like my second home , Illness is a terrible thing but in time hopefully we will advance so much more and have cures and technolgys for such , sorry ranting but Nephrostomy tubes are not the best i used to prefer using a catheter through my Mitrofanoff , anyway sorry for ranting and i know my grammar is not the best if you ever read this haha take care everyone : )
105
Jennifer DeMarco
Call your Doctors! Some of your situations sound very very serious. Although its wonderful to get each others experience, some of us need Drs direction. God bless!
106
Phyllis Bekaert
I am a 64 year old female who had colon-rectal cancer, I had radiation, chemo and two surgeries. 2 years in remission and my kidneys stop filtering. My urologist says my ureter were very scarred from radiation and chemo so I had two bilateral stents put in and did this a year, Uretera were not open, Doctor suggested nephrostomy tubes for life. I am wondering if something can be done to repair your ureter.
107
Fran Turnbull
Hi Phyllis ;; I’m 50 years old ; I had surgery back in March for ovarian cyst & hysterectomy & I took very ill & was readmitted twice before they realised they had cut my ureter in surgery - 9 x days later they realised as I was taken back by ambulance with septis & had to have nephrostomy tube in my right kidney as stent could not be fitted ; I had more surgery to try again but failed then had NG tube fitted in my nose as I was gravely I’ll & got a little better then in June I was the 1st person to have Robotic keyhole URETER RE- implantation at my hospital ; I have had my nephrostomy tube removed & had a renogram to make sure my kidney was working properly & have had my stent removed that they put in through robotic surgery to fix ureter ; So yes ureters can be fixed but beware that you can catch infections easier ; iv had 6 x infections since my operation in June & I have been back for ct scans & awaiting results as my kidney thumps every day & im doubled up in pain ; my pain started when they were removing nephrostomy tube as it got stuck ; on a good note tho at least my ureter is fixed & I have to go back for renogram every 6 Months : hope this helps
I have had a nephrostomy tube inserted into my left kidney because of an 8 mm kidney stone causing a blockage on 11-28-17. Before the nephrostomy tube was inserted my kidney was infected and inflamed since the kidney stone caused a blockage, and it caused an infection In my blood also, which has causes something called septic shock which did give me a high fever which made the nurses at the hospital pack me in ice packs. My question is how often should a nephrostomy tube and bag be changed? I have had the same nephrostomy tube and bag since 11-28-17, and I feel it should have been changed atleat twice since 11-28-17. The nephrostomy tube site through the left side of my Back itches allot, and hurts when I'm up and moving around. Any help would be appreciated. My email address is rosebudawn@yahoo.com. Thank you in advance, and God bless!
109
Dawn
I was diagnosed with 3B cervical cancer,Radiation could be done only as Kidneys were in such bad shape,no chemo,received bilateral nephrostomy bags,it was the 2nd most painful thing ever the only thing that compared was the pain from tumor,They waited too lang for bag exchange (over 3 months)and that too was the most painful stuff,i would rather have gone through childbirth a dozen more times.Why we have to be awake is something i do not understand.Furthermore not all cancers are just a surgery and follow ups.Some are very complicated.God bless anyone going through this,prayers and wishes for wellness.
110
JUDITH
Hello i would like to know more about this Tube .my brother recently got an operation and got the tube.i would like to know how it works with others who have been thru that? Thank you
111
Nikki
I have had a nephrostomy tube in my right kidney for a year now!
This wad put in after I developed sepsis after a surgeon burnt a joke in my uretha and it wasn't noticed.
I had a stent put in for 7 weeks and developed infections.
I have had sepsis
E-coli
Step-d
Combactapholis
C-diff
Providentia
Puerto mariliria
Spellings dodgy!
I'm due to have reconstructive surgery of the bladder
Yikes
112
Nikki
I have had a nephrostomy tube in my right kidney for a year now!
This was put in after I developed sepsis after a surgeon burnt a hole in my uretha and it wasn't noticed.
I had a stent put in for 7 weeks and developed infections.
I have had sepsis
E-coli
Step-d
Combactapholis
C-diff
Providentia
Puerto mariliria
Spellings dodgy!
I'm due to have reconstructive surgery of the bladder
Yikes
113
Lisa Bonds
I had a radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer in Jan.I developed a covaginal fistula and then had an infection and bilateral nyphrostomy tubes and had them exchanged. I was told that it wasn’t as painful as having them put in.Thats true but the same side that gave me trouble is hurting again and I was not told if I shoul. Stay out of the shower. I am due for repair shortly.I just pray it is successful.I appreciate everyone’s stories.
114
Lisa
Nikki good luck with your surgery. I hope it goes well.
115
Joshua
I’m having a nephrostomy tube put in, i have to have it in for today’s so I can get my 12mm kidney stone removed is having the tube in painful?
116
Deb
I had cervical cancer in 2011. I had Chemo, radiation and Brachial theory. The radiation wrecked my bladder and my ueters. Now I have nephroscomy tubes in both kidneys for the rest of my life. I have a surgery every 3 months to exchange these tubes. I have came to grips with having bags but was missing swimming. My urologist told me to tagaderm the heck out of the site and go ahead into the water. So when we were in Vegas I did just that. It worked great. So there is always some rainbows
117
Jovita Benson
I just wanted to send a note to thank marvelspelltemple @gmail. com for the little girl we got to cuddle today. My first interaction with Doctor Muna about Infertility Spell process, I was scared and had a lot of questions. However Doctor Muna was always there for me throughout the whole process and became a part of the family. The most precious moments were spent looking at the first ultrasounds of our little miracle and watching her heartbeat for the first time. Moments I will not forget for the rest of my life. I am so thankful that I went to marvelspelltemple @gmail. com as he knew exactly what type of protocol to put me on that was right for me. This was our first and only attempt and thankfully it worked. Again, thank you all for your expertise and compassionate Miracle. Because of it I will have a lifetime of memories of our little girl!
118
Mike
I have stage 4 prostate cancer.
Had to hav ureter stents put in and they helped for a couple of months but then had more kidney pain. Ended up putting in Neph tubes in . I have had them in for 9 months and had them exchanged 5 times since. This last Neph tube exchange Developed extreme bleeding in both Neph bags and peeing blood with a lot of blood clots. Then the next day my right abdomen and right leg has swollen up severely. Having abdomen and kidney pain. When I stand up and walk my right leg swells up to the point where I can’t take the pain. Has anyone else ever seen this before.
My doctors are not figuring this out
Thank you
119
Barbara
I've had a drain tube since my kidney transplant on July 8th. I have more liquid draining around the outside of the tube than the inside. What causes this and is it normal?
120
Christina
My nephospy tube broke off inside my back what happens if I don't get to a doctor or hospital
121
Vivienne Hardy
Back in December I was in a really bad car accident that completely severed my ureters. I was also 11 weeks pregnant at the time. They tried to put in stints, but couldn’t so I got two tubes put in instead. I’m now 31 weeks pregnant, have had the tubes replaced once for both, and twice for the left one, and have developed a bacteria that can be transmitted to others but only through urine contact. However because of the tubes, I’ve had sepsis, and multiple kidney infections, which have put me at a really high risk of early pregnancy.

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