Massive intraabdominal extravasation of fluid: a life threatening complication following percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy provides an attractive alternative to the surgical removal of renal stones as it is associated with reduced patient morbidity and shortened hospital stay. The advantages of this procedure may, however, be overshadowed by complications like bleeding, extravasation of irrigant fluid and infection, which can be life threatening. We report a case of massive extravasation of irrigant fluid producing severe metabolic acidosis, persistent peritonism and ileus leading to a prolonged hospital stay. The patient also required a further surgery for the complete removal of the stones.