Percutaneous Nephrostomy Tube

A nephrostomy tube is a thin catheter (tube) that is put into your kidney to drain urine (pee). The urine collects in a bag attached to the tube.

1. The care team uses an ultrasound or x-ray to find your kidney.
2. The care team puts a needle through the skin of your lower back and into your kidney.
3. They guide a wire through this needle.
4. The tube is then put over the wire into your kidney.
5. The wire and needle are then taken out, leaving just the tube in place.

You may need a nephrostomy tube if:

• Your urinary tract (the flow of your urine) is blocked, such as by a kidney stone.
• Your urinary tract is injured.
   

• Some people need it for days. Some people need it for months or years. It depends on the reason you need the nephrostomy tube.
• If you need a nephrostomy tube for a long time, you will need the tube replaced at least 3 times a year to prevent infection.