ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy and safety of simple open versus laparoscopic nephrectomies for treating benign renal pathologies, with a focus on comparing the prevalence of surgical complications at a first-level center in Mexico City. METHODS: A retrospective analysis spanning 2010-2020 was conducted where all patients undergoing simple nephrectomy for benign conditions were included and stratified into open and laparoscopic surgery groups. Variables analyzed included urological history, laboratory findings, surgical outcomes, complications, and histopathological results. Statistical comparisons employed Student's t-test for means and the chi-square test for frequencies. Additionally, binary logistic regression was utilized to identify predictors associated with conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery. RESULTS: The laparoscopic approach showed significant advantages in intraoperative bleeding (p=0.008) and intensive care unit stay (p=0.04). The conversion rate from laparoscopic to open surgery was 19.23%, with no significant risk factors identified for conversion. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic simple nephrectomy proves to be a secure and effective method in specialized urological centers with skilled surgeons, offering superior intraoperative outcomes compared to open surgery. It effectively reduces intraoperative hemorrhage, minimizes blood transfusion needs, and shortens hospital stays. Nonetheless, challenges such as equipment availability, costs, and surgeon expertise must be addressed. Further research focused on postoperative complications is crucial to advocate for broader adoption of laparoscopic nephrectomy as the preferred standard for treating relevant urological conditions, emphasizing substantial advantages over traditional open approaches.