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SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF RECURRENT STAGHORN CYSTINE STONES USING MINIMALLY INVASIVE MINI-PCNL

SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF RECURRENT STAGHORN CYSTINE STONES USING MINIMALLY INVASIVE MINI-PCNL

06/03/2026

Staghorn cystine stones are a rare and complex type of urinary stone formed from cystine – an amino acid that is poorly soluble in urine. These stones typically occur in individuals with cystinuria caused by mutations in the SLC3A1 or SLC7A9 genes. They are characterized by rapid recurrence, high hardness, and resistance to fragmentation, often occupying the entire renal pelvis and calyces. If not treated promptly, staghorn stones can lead to urinary tract obstruction, infection, chronic deterioration of renal function, and serious impairment of quality of life.

At American International Hospital (AIH), a 46-year-old male patient with a history of hypertension and multiple previous stone surgeries was admitted with recurrent flank pain accompanied by hematuria. Clinical evaluation revealed multiple stones in the left kidney involving the renal pelvis and the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ), with grade III hydronephrosis. The right kidney contained a large staghorn stone occupying the entire renal pelvis and calyces. The patient’s renal function was significantly reduced, with an eGFR of only 37.6. Urine pH was 7.0, and no signs of infection were detected.

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To manage the severe recurrent staghorn stones, Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tien, MD, PhD – Head of the Urology–Nephrology–Andrology Department at AIH, performed a minimally invasive two-stage procedure using Mini-PCNL combined with JJ stent placement. The first stage was performed on the left kidney, followed by the second stage on the right kidney. The postoperative course was uneventful with no complications, and the patient was discharged early, two days after each surgery.

Following treatment, the patient recovered well and was discharged promptly. Renal function improved significantly, with eGFR increasing from 37.6 to 51.3, and urine analysis no longer showed cystine crystals. Genetic testing confirmed a mutation in the SLC3A1 gene, establishing cystinuria as the underlying cause. The patient is currently being monitored by a multidisciplinary team (Urology, Nephrology, and Nutrition specialists) to implement coordinated long-term preventive strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence in both the near and distant future.

Mini-PCNL at AIH is a safe and effective method for treating recurrent staghorn cystine stones. When combined with an appropriate technique and a comprehensive management strategy, this approach enables the treatment of complex stone cases, preserves kidney function, and improves patients’ quality of life.

At the Nephrology–Urology Department of AIH, an experienced team of physicians works alongside modern medical equipment and a multidisciplinary care model involving Urology, Nephrology, and Nutrition specialists. This collaboration ensures effective management of large and recurrent stones while preserving renal function and enhancing patients’ quality of life. With precise diagnostic capabilities and advanced treatment methods, the department is equipped to manage even rare and complex cases, reinforcing its position as one of the leading specialties delivering high-quality medical care at AIH.

When should you seek medical evaluation for kidney stones: Early warning signs to watch for

According to Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tien, MD, PhD, individuals at risk for cystine stones or with a history of kidney stones should seek medical attention immediately if any of the following symptoms occur:

  • Severe pain in the flank, back, or abdomen: Colicky pain that may radiate to the groin or genital area.

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  • Hematuria or changes in urine color: Urine may appear pink, red, or brown and may contain crystals or whitish sediment.

  • Difficulty urinating, urinary frequency, urgency, or urinary retention: These may indicate urinary tract obstruction caused by stones.

  • Fever, chills, or fatigue: Possible signs of a urinary tract infection that requires prompt treatment.

  • History of recurrent stones or genetic disorders (cystinuria): Even without symptoms, individuals at high risk should undergo regular check-ups and screening with ultrasound or CT scans.

To schedule an appointment at American International Hospital (AIH), please contact the hotline (028) 3910 9999 or send a message via Fanpage https://m.me/aih.com.vn. 

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AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL (AIH):
☎ Hotline: 1900 3399 || (028) 3910 9999​
🌏 Website: www.aih.com.vn
📍Address: (Entrance from 199 Nguyen Hoang Street) No.6, Bac Nam 3 Street, Binh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh
  • by Admin AIH
  • In Tin tức & Sự kiện

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