Percutaneous coagulum nephrolithotripsy: a new approach.

Intrarenal scatter of stone fragments during percutaneous nephrolithotripsy is a complication which may predispose to post-operative pain and further stone formation. The use of a coagulum to prevent such a complication has proved difficult when introduced percutaneously. This experimental study describes a new gelatine (Lithogel) which is introduced through the nephroscope to coat the renal calculus; it allows easy disintegration of the calculus within the gel, is safe to use and effectively prevents the scatter of fragments into inaccessible calices.