Retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy: the experience of an Irish teaching hospital

Abstract

Background

Since its introduction, laparoscopic nephrectomy is increasingly being used worldwide as a method of removing the kidney, both in benign disease and in small volume tumours. To our knowledge, we are the first surgeons in Ireland to perform this procedure with results that support its use in select cases.

Aims

We looked at 12 cases of retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy, which we carried out over a five-year period.

Methods

Of the 12 cases performed, five were for renal cell carcinoma and seven were for benign disease. Regarding patients with carcinoma, careful patient selection was based on physical examination, biochemical renal profile and tumour stage.

Results

Mean tumour size was 3.3cm. Mean specimen weight was 184g (carcinoma) and 42g (benign). Mean surgical time was 90 minutes and average blood loss was 45ml. Average length of hospital stay was 3.5 days. No major complications occurred. Follow-up of those with renal cell carcinoma revealed all to be tumour-free and renal profile studies of all patients fell within the normal range for all parameters.

Conclusions

Our results support previous reports that recommend laparoscopic nephrectomy as a method for removing kidneys with benign disease or with small volume carcinomas.