The authors present a 12-year (1986-98) study of a new procedure called percutaneous nephropexy (PCNP). This procedure was performed on 51 renal ptosis patients at two urological departments (in Pakistan and Hungary) with satisfactory results. The idea for PCNP was adapted from the observation that after drain insertion following nephrostomy a scar is quite sufficient to hold the kidney in place. That idea was used to fix the kidney at the required level.Thirteen patients complained of a palpable mobile mass in the abdomen while others suffered from pain in their affected flank with recurrent attacks of urinary tract infection. On ultrasonic examination the kidney was found to be lower than the normal position. This observation was confirmed by a standing intravenous urography (IVU) examination that also showed a tortuous ureter. Nine patients also had a stone in the affected kidney. The operation involved puncture and dilatation of a channel through the lower calyx.Control IVU examination was performed after wound healing and was repeated 2 months after the operation, followed by consecutive ultrasonic examinations. Standing X-ray films obtained after contrast material injection showed the kidney to be at a higher level with a straight ureter. Forty-five patients (88.2%) recovered completely.In the authors' opinion PCNP is a good alternative to open nephropexy operations in renal ptosis cases, particularly when laparoscopic surgery facilities are not available. Although PCNP was developed in circumstances in which the availability of equipment was restricted, in terms of benefits it is comparable with laparoscopic nephropexy.