Needle renal displacement technique for the percutaneous approach to the superior calix.

We describe a new renal displacement technique using an 18-gauge needle to facilitate superior calix puncture and consequently to decrease intrathoracic morbidity. Initially, a lower or middle calix is punctured with an 18-gauge needle. Then, the proximal end of the needle is progressively pushed in the cephalic direction. Therefore, the kidney is pushed caudally by the lever maneuver. This technique has also been used to immobilize the kidney or to reorient complex and malrotated kidneys.