Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove large kidney stones. It is recommended when ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) or RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) fails to remove stones effectively.
One of the major concerns for patients considering PCNL surgery is its cost. This cost varies based on hospital infrastructure, surgeon experience, and post-surgical care. In this guide, we will discuss PCNL cost in India, the factors affecting pricing, and comparisons with alternative treatments.
What is PCNL? (PCN Full Form in Medical)
PCNL stands for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCN surgery full form). It is performed under general anesthesia to remove large kidney stones via a small incision in the back. PCN medical abbreviation is commonly used for nephrostomy procedures in medical reports.
PCNL Cost in India
The cost of PCNL surgery in India varies. Factors like hospital location affect it. Surgeon expertise and the complexity of the procedure also play a role. Below is an approximate cost breakdown:
| City | PCNL Surgery Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹90,000 – ₹1,60,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹85,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
| Chennai | ₹75,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹70,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Factors Affecting PCNL Cost
- Hospital Type – Multi-specialty hospitals charge higher fees.
- Surgeon’s Experience – Skilled surgeons may charge more for expertise.
- Surgical Equipment – PCNL instruments like PCNL dilator set and PCNL drape add to the cost.
- Type of PCNL Surgery – Mini PCNL or Mini Perc Surgery is often cheaper than standard PCNL.
- Post-Operative Care – Extended hospital stay increases costs.
PCNL vs RIRS – Which is Better?
Patients often compare PCNL vs RIRS before deciding on surgery.
| Factor | PCNL | RIRS |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive | Non-invasive |
| Recovery Time | 3-5 days | 1-2 days |
| Best for Stone Size | >2 cm | <2 cm |
| Anesthesia | General | Local or General |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
If the stone is smaller than 2 cm, RIRS is preferred, whereas PCNL is recommended for larger stones.
PCNL vs ESWL – Cost & Effectiveness
Another common comparison is ESWL vs PCNL:
| Factor | PCNL | ESWL |
|---|---|---|
| Stone Size | >2 cm | <1.5 cm |
| Procedure Type | Minimally invasive | Non-invasive |
| Success Rate | High (single session) | Moderate (multiple sessions) |
| Recovery Time | 3-5 days | Immediate |
| Cost | ₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹30,000 – ₹80,000 |
If the stone is too large for ESWL, PCNL is a better option.
Mini PCNL & Mini Perc Surgery – Low-Cost Alternatives
For patients looking for less invasive and cost-effective solutions, Mini PCNL and Mini Perc Surgery are available:
- Mini PCNL – Uses smaller incisions and reduces hospital stay.
- Mini Perc Surgery – A variation of Mini PCNL with lower surgical risks.
Both procedures are cheaper than standard PCNL surgery and are suitable for moderate-sized kidney stones.
FAQs around PCNL Surgery Cost
1. What is the average PCNL surgery cost in India?
The average PCNL surgery cost in India ranges from ₹70,000 – ₹1,50,000, depending on hospital and surgeon expertise.
2. Is PCNL covered under health insurance?
Yes, most health insurance policies cover PCNL surgery costs under kidney stone treatment.
3. Which is cheaper – PCNL or RIRS?
RIRS is generally cheaper and preferred for smaller stones, while PCNL is costlier but effective for larger stones.
4. How long is the hospital stay after PCNL?
Most patients stay for 2-3 days after surgery and resume normal activities within a week.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified urologist before opting for PCNL surgery.
