62-year-old female has kidney stone and treated with PCNL. After 2 days she again comes to OPD with chills and fever. What is the complication?
## **Core Concept**
The patient in this scenario has undergone **Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)**, a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove kidney stones. Post-procedure complications can arise, and the symptoms presented, such as chills and fever, indicate a possible infection.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **Sepsis or Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)**, is likely due to the introduction of bacteria during the procedure or pre-existing bacteria in the urinary tract that have become symptomatic post-procedure. PCNL carries a risk of infection, including UTI and sepsis, especially if the urinary tract was infected pre-procedure or if sterile technique was breached. Fever and chills are common symptoms of infection.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is not provided, but typically, incorrect options might include conditions not directly related to infection or immediate post-surgical complications such as **acute kidney injury** or **hemorrhage**, which, although possible, do not directly explain the symptoms of chills and fever.
- **Option B:** Similarly, without content, we assume this could be a condition like **stone fragments causing obstruction**, which might lead to discomfort or pain but doesn't directly cause systemic symptoms like fever and chills.
- **Option C:** This could potentially be a correct answer depending on its content but is marked as incorrect; it might represent a less likely complication or one not directly related to the symptoms described.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that patients undergoing PCNL are at risk for **post-procedure infections**, and any signs of infection (fever, chills, etc.) should be taken seriously and investigated promptly. Early recognition and treatment of infection are crucial to prevent progression to **sepsis**, which can be life-threatening.
## **Correct Answer:** D. Sepsis.