Nephrostomy Tube plugging up
Posted: 2026-06-14 15:53:07
Is there a chat room somewhere around here that you can chat with other people who haveNephrostomy tubes.
Nephrostomy tubes plugging up is not normal and can become urgent if urine flow stops.
Common causes:
Blood clots in the tube
Sediment, crystals, or kidney stone debris
Infection producing thick debris
Kinking or compression of the tubing
Poor drainage bag positioning
Dehydration causing concentrated urine
Seek prompt medical attention if:
Little or no urine is draining
Urine backs up around the tube site
New flank/kidney pain develops
Fever, chills, or signs of infection occur
The tube cannot be flushed as instructed by the care team
Temporary measures:
Check for kinks or twists in the tubing.
Make sure the drainage bag is below kidney level.
Stay hydrated if your doctor has not restricted fluids.
Do not forcefully flush the tube unless you were specifically trained and instructed to do so.
If the tube has stopped draining completely, contact the physician or interventional radiology team managing the nephrostomy tube immediately, as blocked tubes sometimes require flushing, exchange, or replacement.
-ChatGPT
ChatGPT has helped me out CONSIDERABLY with good factual information but always double check with your physician as always. Unfortunately chat and posts are a mix, you get good advice and bad.