Nephrostomy Tube Placement

What Is A Nephrostomy Tube?

A nephrostomy tube is placed to drain urine from the kidney when it is being blocked from draining normally into the bladder.

Before The Procedure

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. For the best experience please properly prepare for your appointment:

• Do not eat 8 hours before and do not drink 4 hours before your procedure.
• Take medications with a sip of water. Certain medications cannot be taken prior to this procedure; your doctor will provide instructions if you need to adjust your medication. If you take insulin, your doctor should adjust your morning insulin dose the day of your test.
• If you have an allergy to X-ray dye, please notify your physician as soon as possible. You may need to take special medications a day prior to the procedure.
• You will need to arrange transportation, as you will not be able to drive home after the procedure.

During The Procedure

A team of nurses, imaging technologists and a doctor will explain and perform the procedure.

• Nurse places an IV for sedation medication, provided for your comfort.
• Imaging Technologist positions you lying on your stomach on the exam table.
• Your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen level are monitored. You may receive oxygen during this procedure. Sedation medication is given to help with pain and relaxation.
• Imaging Technologist cleans the skin on your back.
• Doctor numbs the skin site.
• Doctor inserts a needle into the kidney and places a flexible tube to drain the urine.
• Doctor uses Ultrasound and X-ray to guide the tube and verify it is in the correct location.
• The tube is connected to an external bag to collect urine.

After The Procedure

• You are monitored for signs of complications by a nurse for about 60 minutes.
• Your nurse provides home instructions to care for your procedure site and post procedure symptoms.
• Your nurse provides education on how to care for your tube and drain bag at home.
• Nephrostomy tubes should be changed every 3 months or sooner if an issue occurs.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to schedule and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.