The learning curve in the training of percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the learning curve in the training of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).


METHODS
A total of 104 PCNL cases were included in this evaluation to define the learning curve of a surgeon with no previous experience at performing solo PCNL. Two parameters of expertise were reviewed, namely the operation and fluoroscopic screening times. The operation time was calculated as the beginning of access with the needle until the nephrostomy tube was placed and secured. PCNL procedures were analyzed in seven sets of 15 cases regarding the operation and fluoroscopy times, stone size, stone clearance rate, blood transfusion rate, and estimated blood loss.


RESULTS
The mean operation time was 2.4 h for the first 15 patients. It decreased to a mean of 1.5 h for cases 46 through 60. No further decrease in the operation time was observed after case 60. The fluoroscopic screening time was a peak of 17.5 min in the first 15 cases, whereas it dropped to a mean of 8.9 min for cases 46 through 60. The decline in the mean fluoroscopy screening time continued in cases 61 to 104, but the decline was not significant. There was no significant difference in stone size, stone clearance rate, blood transfusion rate, and estimated blood loss among each set of cases.


CONCLUSIONS
This study suggests that the surgical competence in PCNL can be reached after 60 cases. PCNL and fluoroscopy times drop to a steady-state level after performing 60 procedures.
Tanriverdi
Orhan
O
2nd Urology Department, Sisli Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. tanriverdi@superonline.com
Boylu
Ugur
U
Kendirci
Muammer
M
Kadihasanoglu
Mustafa
M
Horasanli
Kaya
K
Miroglu
Cengiz
C
D002983:Clinical Competence; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053040:Nephrolithiasis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D009403:Nephrostomy, Percutaneous; D014572:Urology / Q000193:education*