With its unwieldy name and reputation for being the most invasive kidney stone treatment, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) can sound daunting, but fear not. PCNL provides an excellent option for large or difficult-to-reach stones or stones that cannot be treated with shock wave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy.

It is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves making a small incision in the back near the kidney.