Anatomical Aspects of the Extra– and Retroperitoneal Space

Abstract

Laparoscopy has become the forefront of urologic surgery for the management of malignant and nonmalignant diseases. With this, an increasing number of urologists are performing routine and complex laparoscopic procedures with the aim of more minimal invasive approaches, which have the potential for significant reduction in patient morbidity. Understanding the anatomical landmarks and relationships of the urinary tract of these approaches is therefore vital to minimizing complications and maximizing success. Retroperitoneal laparoscopic surgery in urology is becoming relatively common and has led to great familiarity with the retroperitoneal anatomy. Knowledge of the complex anatomy of the entities lying between the posterior abdominal wall and peritoneum and recognition of common variations and their potential implications are crucial for successful surgery of retroperitoneal organs.

This chapter describes the important surface anatomy, relationship of the urinary tract to surrounding organs, and their clinical applications for a better understanding of the extraperitoneal approach to the kidney and pelvis.