Percutaneous nephrostomy in infants and children.

Percutaneous nephrostomy drainage was established in 28 children, predominantly for ureteric obstruction. Infection was the most frequent presenting feature (nine patients) followed by renal failure (six) and a combination of the two (four). A sonographically guided antegrade examination was first performed with a 22-gauge needle. Using a posterolateral approach, a 6 or 8.3 French pigtail catheter was placed in the collecting system over a guide wire introduced through an 18 gauge needle. Catheter placement was successful in every patient; in 15 children, no further procedures were required. Complications were uncommon and usually minor.