Retroperitoneal laparoscopic simple nephrectomy: Reports of 6 cases / 中国微创外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the clinical value of retroperitoneal laparoscopic simple nephrectomy. Methods Retroperitoneal laparoscopic simple nephrectomy was performed in 6 patients, including 5 cases of severe hydronephrosis with non-functioning kidney resulted from ureteral calculi and 1 case of renal tuberculosis. The operation was conducted via retroperitoneal approach. After the upper ureter and the renal pedicle were exposed, the renal artery and vein were clipped and severed. The renal pedicle was occluded only with titanium clips before the removal of the kidney. Results All the operations were performed successfully without complications. The operation time was 130~220 min (mean, 150 min) and the intraoperative blood loss, 80~150 ml (mean, 120 ml). The postoperative hospital stay ranged 5~7 days. Follow-ups for 3 months in the 5 patients with ureterolithiasis revealed normal renal functions. The patient with renal tuberculosis was given anti-tuberculosis therapy and followed for 6 months. No recurrence was seen and the patient’s serum creatinine level was 120 ?mol/L, which was slightly higher than the normal. Conclusions Retroperitoneal laparoscopic simple nephrectomy has advantages of minimal invasion, short hospital stay and rapid recovery. The procedure should be regarded as the “golden standard” for simple nephrectomy.