Isolated Upper Pole Access in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Large-Scale Analysis from the CROES Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Global Study

Isolated upper pole access is indicated in a select group of patients with complex stones. Upper calyceal and staghorn stones are more commonly managed by upper pole access, which is associated with a higher complication rate and longer hospital stay as well as a lower stone-free rate due to procedure complexity.