后腹腔镜下根治性肾切除术完整标本取出切口的随机对照研究

目的 探讨后腹腔镜下根治性肾切除术完整取出标本的适宜切口.方法 因肾癌需实施后腹腔镜下根治性肾切除术的连续性住院病例119例,按随机数字表随机分为2组,腹部切口组60例,腰部切口组59例.手术均由同一组医生实施,完整标本取出均由同一位医生完成.统计分析2组手术时间、标本取出时间、切口长度、标本质量、术后下床活动时间、术后胃肠功能恢复时间、术后住院日、术后止痛剂用量、并发症发生率等方面的差异.结果 2组患者性别、年龄、体质指数、肾脏最大横径、肿瘤分期等比较差异均无统计学意义(P＞0.05).2组手术时间分别为(99±14)、(115±12)min(P=0.000),切口长度分别为(4.9±0.3)、(5.3±0.4)cm(P=0.000),标本取出时间分别为(14±2)、(24±6)min(P=0.000),术后止痛剂用量分别为(35±27)、(52±29)mg(P=0.002),下床活动时间分别为(20±2)、(21±4)h(P=0.016),组间比较差异均有统计学意义;2组胃肠功能恢复时间分别为(21±3)、(20±4)h(P=0.457),术后住院日分别为(6±1)、(6±1)d(P=0.476),标本质量分别为(469±181)、(459±169)g(P=0.776),组间比较差异均无统计学意义.119例切口均甲级愈合,无切口液化、感染病例.89例获随访,随访时间6～18个月,中位时间12个月,未见切口疝、肿瘤切口种植病例.结论后腹腔镜下根治性肾切除术完整取出标本时,腹部切口具有切口小、损伤少、手术时间短、术后恢复快、疼痛轻等优点,是完整取出标本较为合适的路径.

Abstract：

Objective To investigate the appropriate incision for intact specimen extraction during retroperitoneoscopic radical nephrectomy. Methods One hundred and nineteen patients in need of retroperitoneoscopic radical nephrectomy were randomized into two groups. One group of 60 patients received intact specimen extraction through a muscle-splitting abdominal incision. The second group of 59 patients received intact specimen extraction through a muscle-cutting lumbar incision. All procedures were performed by the same team of surgeons, and the intact specimens were extracted by the same surgeon. Standard operative features were measured and recorded (operative time, the time of specimen extraction, incision length, specimen weight, the time to get out of bed, the recovery time of gastrointestinal function, postoperative hospital stay, analgesia requirement, and complication rate). Results The two groups were matched in regard to patient age, body mass index, the maximum diameter of the kidney, and the stage of TNM (each P>0.05). There were significant differences between the abdominal incision group and lumbar incision group in terms of operative time (99±14 min vs 115±12 min; P=0.000), incision length (4.9±0.3 cm vs 5.3±0.4 cm; P=0.000), the time of specimen extraction (14±2 min vs 24±6 min; P=0.000), analgesia requirement (35±27 mg vs 52±29 mg; P=0.002), the time to get out of bed (20±2 h vs 21±4 h; P=0.016). The differences were not significant between the 2 groups in terms of the recovery time of gastrointestinal function (21±3 h vs 20±4 h; P=0.457), hospital stay (6±1 d vs 6±1 d; P=0.476), and specimen weight (469±181 g vs 459±169 g; P=0.776). There was no complication of incision in the 2 groups at 12 months′ follow-up (rang, 6 to 18 months). Conclusion A muscle-splitting abdominal incision for intact specimen extraction is more appropriate than a lumbar incision during retroperitoneoscopic radical nephrectomy, with small incision, little injury, short operative time, quick recovery, and less pain.     

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy: a single-center experience of 51 cases

A modified technique of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for treatment of renal cell carcinoma makes surgery easier, faster, and safer in terms of tumor cell spillage. We report our experience with this procedure in 51 consecutive cases. A transperitoneal approach was used in all cases. The average patient age was 62 years. The solid renal mass diameter was between 2 and 9 cm. Extrafascial mobilization of the kidney included limited lymph node dissection. In six patients the adrenal gland was removed simultaneously. The specimen was removed intact through a small muscle-splitting incision in the lower abdominal wall. The procedure was successful without conversion to open surgery in all 51 patients. The average operating time was 125 minutes, and the average postoperative hospital stay was 7.2 days. Major complications were seen in 4% of patients. Neither local recurrences nor metastases were observed in the following 7.9 (1-19) months. In our experience, laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is safe and efficient. Removing the specimen intact through a small muscle-splitting incision reduces operating time, avoids tumor cell spillage, and allows exact pathological staging.     

Laparoscopy-assisted live donor nephrectomy: a modified cost-effective approach for developing countries

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Because of the prohibitive cost of laparoscopic disposable instruments such as the PneumoSleeve, Endocatch, and vascular staples, laparoscopic live-donor nephrectomy has not gained wide acceptance in many developing countries. To circumvent this problem, we have developed a cost-saving approach, which is described herein and compared with the open method. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-nine patients underwent laparoscopic live-donor nephrectomy at our institute, of which two were performed by the hand-assisted technique, five by the technique described by Fabrizio et al and forty-two by our modified cost-saving laparoscopy-assisted technique (LD). The latter patients were compared with 50 patients who had a standard open donor nephrectomy (OD) through a rib-resecting (12th rib) flank incision. Our technique is similar to the procedure described by Fabrizio et al except for a 6- to 8-cm incision placed in the subcostal region to retrieve the kidney after the renal vessels are cut and ligated as in the open procedure. The costs of the various techniques at our institute were compared. RESULTS: The LD and OD groups were similar in terms of age, weight, side of nephrectomy, and number of renal vessels. The operative time was longer in the LD group than in the OD group (180.7 +/- 18 minutes v 101.5 +/- 10.4 minutes), whereas the mean intraoperative blood loss was less (85.5 +/- 21.35 v 220 +/- 22.5 mL; P < 0.001). Warm ischemia time and recipient outcomes were comparable in the two groups. Patients in the LD group had lower postoperative narcotic (tramadol hydrochloride) requirement (155.3 +/- 53.3 mg v 251.8 +/- 63.1 mg; P < 0.001) and earlier discharge from the hospital (3.14 v 5.7 days; P < 0.001). The mean expense incurred was US$175 v US$160 in the LD and OD groups, respectively. The cost of the hand-assisted and standard laparoscopic techniques was significantly higher than that of our modified technique. CONCLUSIONS: Our modified technique of laparoscopy-assisted live-donor nephrectomy avoids the use of costly disposables yet offers the advantages of lesser morbidity and small incision of LD. It is cost effective and is an alternative to open nephrectomy in the developing world.     

Randomized trial of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy with and without hand assistance

PURPOSE: To compare the early results of standard laparoscopic (SL) and hand-assisted laparoscopic (HAL) donor nephrectomy in a randomized study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty donors were randomly assigned in equal numbers to either SL or HAL. Two donors in the SL group and three patients in the HAL group underwent right nephrectomy; the others underwent left nephrectomy. In the SL group, specimen extraction was performed via a Pfannenstiel incision and in HAL group through a periumbilical midline incision. Objective intraoperative, hospital stay, and postoperative data as well as pain analog scores were collected prospectively. Patients completed the quality-of-life (QoL) SF-36 questionnaire preoperatively and at 1 month and 3 months of follow-up. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in the mean operative time in the two groups (200 +/- 20.8 minutes for SL v 219 +/- 28.3 minutes for HAL; P = 0.02). There was no difference in the mean estimated blood loss (141.5 +/- 221.8 mL v 97.4 +/- 73 mL, respectively; P = 0.41), warm ischemia time (157.5 +/- 76.3 seconds v 135.5 +/- 53.7 seconds; P = 0.32), length of postoperative hospital stay (1.9 +/- 0.5 days v 2.1 +/- 0.5 days; P = 0.61), intravenous analgesia (22.1 +/- 14.0 mg v 28.3 +/- 14.8 mg of morphine sulfate equivalent; P = 0.18), or pain score on postoperative day 1 (6.1 +/- 1.0 v 6.2 +/- 1.1) and 2 (3.3 +/- 1.2 and 3.4 +/- 1.3). There were five minor complications in the SL group and three in the HAL group. The mean preoperative (89.7 +/- 4.8 v 89.2 +/- 7.4; P = 0.84), 1-month (63.4 +/- 13.9 v 64.5 +/- 12.6; P = 0.82), and 3-month (82.7 +/- 7.4 v 80.2 +/- 8.4; P = 0.41) postoperative QoL scores did not differ significantly between the groups. None of the recipients required postoperative dialysis, and there was no statistical difference between the two groups in the serum creatinine concentration. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic and hand-assisted donor nephrectomies have similar outcomes and postoperative pain. Both approaches are well tolerated with minimal complication rates and have similar impact on patients' quality of life.     

Laparoscopic bilateral synchronous nephrectomy for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: the initial experience

PURPOSE: We report our experience with laparoscopic bilateral synchronous nephrectomy for giant symptomatic autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and compare outcome data with open bilateral nephrectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Since March 1998, 10 patients underwent bilateral synchronous laparoscopic nephrectomy for giant symptomatic ADPKD. A 3 port retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach was used to secure the renal hilum and mobilize the kidney. Intact specimen extraction was performed through a midline infraumbilical extraperitoneal incision. The patient was then repositioned for the contralateral retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy, with the second specimen also delivered through the same infraumbilical incision. Data were retrospectively compared with 10 patients who had undergone bilateral synchronous open nephrectomy for ADPKD between 1981 and 1992. RESULTS: Patients in the laparoscopic and open groups were comparable in regard to age (53 versus 47 years, p = 0.54) and Anesthesiologist Society of America class (3 versus 3, p = 0.84) but patients in the laparoscopic group were significantly more obese (body mass index 35.9 versus 23.8, p = 0.02). For comparable total specimen weights (3 versus 3 kg, p = 0.69) surgical time was longer in the laparoscopic group (4.4 versus 3.8 hours, p = 0.007). However, the laparoscopic group was superior in regard to blood loss (150 versus 325 cc, p = 0.05), postoperative requirement of nasogastric tube (10% versus 100%, p = 0.0001), narcotic analgesics (34.2 versus 120.4 mg. morphine sulfate equivalent, p = 0.03) and hospital stay (1.5 versus 9 days, p = 0.004). Complications occurred in 5 patients (50%) in the laparoscopic group and 4 (40%) in the open group (p = 0.66). No laparoscopic case was converted to open surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Synchronous bilateral retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for giant symptomatic adult polycystic kidney disease is feasible, safe and efficacious, and can be performed either before or after renal transplantation. Compared to open surgery, the laparoscopic approach results in significantly shorter hospital stay, decreased morbidity and quicker recovery. Laparoscopy is currently our technique of choice in this setting.     

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy: prospective assessment of impact of intact versus fragmented specimen removal on postoperative quality of life

PURPOSE: We prospectively compared postoperative recovery and quality of life for groups of patients undergoing laparoscopic radical nephrectomy with intact or fragmented specimen removal. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective evaluation of 12 patients having a transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy was completed. In each case, a radical dissection was performed regardless of the surgical indication. Fragmented specimens (N = 7) were extracted at the umbilical port, and intact specimens (N = 5) were extracted through an infraumbilical incision. Demographic and perioperative data including specimen removal incision, narcotic requirements, and recovery interval were recorded. Subjective pain and activity assessments were administered prospectively on postoperative days 1, 2, 7, and 14. RESULTS: The mean incision length for intact specimen removal was 7.6 cm and that for fragmented removal was 1.2 cm (P < 0.05). Pain and activity self-assessments improved over time in each group. No significant differences in pain or activity scores were noted between treatment groups at any queried interval. Time to return of normal activity was not significantly different in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: In this pilot study, no subjective or objective advantage was demonstrated for kidney fragmentation during laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. A larger randomized study is required to better assess any clinical advantage to specimen morcellation.     

Vaginal extraction of the intact specimen following laparoscopic radical nephrectomy.

PURPOSE: We report the detailed technique and results of transvaginal extraction of the intact laparoscopic radical nephrectomy specimen. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Since June 2000, 10 select female patients with a median age of 67 years underwent transvaginal extraction of the intact specimen after laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. In 5 patients open surgery had previously been performed on the uterus, including transabdominal hysterectomy in 2 and cesarean section in 3. Laparoscopic nephrectomy was performed via the transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approach in 5 cases each. After completion of the primary laparoscopic procedure a sponge stick was externally inserted into the sterile prepared vagina and tautly positioned in the posterior fornix. Laparoscopically a transverse posterior colpotomy was created at the apex of the tented up posterior fornix and the drawstring of the entrapped specimen was delivered into the vagina. After laparoscopic exit was completed the patient was placed in the supine lithotomy position. The specimen was extracted intact via the vagina and the posterior colpotomy incision was repaired transvaginally. Patients were mailed a linear scale analog questionnaire to assess various aspects of recovery with responses graded from 0--no pain and/or change to 10--severe pain and/or change. RESULTS: Vaginal extraction was successful in all 10 patients. Median operative time for the vaginal extraction procedure was 35 minutes. Blood loss was minimal. Median tumor size was 3.6 cm. (range 2.4 to 7.4) and median specimen weight was 327 gm. (range 152 to 484). No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperatively blood spotting via the vagina in 1 patient resolved spontaneously. Postoperative questionnaires revealed excellent patient satisfaction and convalescence. CONCLUSIONS: Vaginal extraction is an efficacious and minimally morbid technique for removing the intact entrapped specimen after laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. It has now become our preferred technique of intact specimen extraction in appropriate female patients.     

Organ intact retrieval via umbilical incision after simultaneous bilateral laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for renal masses

PURPOSE: We report on two cases of laparoscopic bilateral nephrectomy for renal-cell carcinoma (RCC) in patients with end-stage renal disease. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Bilateral renal masses were detected in two patients with acquired renal cystic disease. They underwent bilateral laparoscopic nephrectomy. The specimens were removed intact via an umbilical incision. RESULTS: The operative times were 8 hours and 6 hours and the estimated blood loss was 154 mL and 120 mL. Both patients resumed oral intake on postoperative day 1 and were discharged on postoperative day 6. No intraoperative and postoperative complications occurred. The pathology report revealed bilateral RCC. The original length of the umbilical incision was 4 cm which shrank to 3 cm by 2 months after the operation. CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral laparoscopic radical nephrectomy including intact organ retrieval for bilateral renal masses via a small umbilical incision is feasible.     

Laparoscopic retroperitoneal live donor right nephrectomy for purposes of allotransplantation and autotransplantation

PURPOSE: We report the technique of and initial experience with retroperitoneal laparoscopic live donor right nephrectomy for purposes of renal allotransplantation and autotransplantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 5 patients underwent retroperitoneoscopic live donor nephrectomy of the right kidney for autotransplantation in 4 and living related renal donation in 1. Indications for autotransplantation included a large proximal ureteral tumor, a long distal ureteral stricture and 2 cases of the loin pain hematuria syndrome. In all cases a 3-port retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach and a pelvic muscle splitting Gibson incision for kidney extraction were used. In patients undergoing autotransplantation the same incision was used for subsequent transplantation. RESULTS: All procedures were successfully accomplished without technical or surgical complications. Total mean operating time was 5.8 hours and average laparoscopic donor nephrectomy time was 3.1 hours. Mean renal warm ischemia time, including endoscopic cross clamping of the renal artery to ex vivo cold perfusion, was 4 minutes. Average blood loss for the entire procedure was 400 cc. Radionuclide scan on postoperative day 1 confirmed good blood flow and function in all transplanted kidneys. Mean analgesic requirement was 58 mg. fentanyl. Mean hospital stay was 4 days (range 2 to 8), and convalescence was completed in 3 to 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: In the occasional patient requiring renal autotransplantation live donor nephrectomy can be performed laparoscopically with renal extraction and subsequent transplantation through a single standard extraperitoneal Gibson incision, thus, minimizing the overall operative morbidity. Furthermore, these data demonstrate that live donor nephrectomy of the right kidney can be performed safely using a retroperitoneal approach with an adequate length of the right renal vein obtained for allotransplantation or autotransplantation.     

Laparoscopic specimen extraction: morcellation

OBJECTIVES

To review our experience with intact extraction and morcellation of nephrectomy specimens, and the advantages and disadvantages of morcellation indicated by current reports.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a previous study, 56 consecutive patients undergoing radical and simple transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy were prospectively evaluated. Morcellation specimens (33) were extracted at the umbilical or lateral port sites and intact specimens (23) through an infra‐umbilical incision. Data were obtained on pathology, narcotic requirements, hospital stay, complications, estimated blood loss, size of renal mass based on preoperative imaging, specimen weight and extraction incision length

RESULTS

The mean incision length was 1.2 cm in the morcellation group and 7.1 cm in the intact group (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in pain or recovery between the groups. In two cases of tumour nephrectomy, microscopic invasion of the perinephric adipose tissue in the intact specimen group were up‐staged from clinical T1 to pT3a disease; there was no change in patient treatment based on this information.

CONCLUSIONS

With proper technique, morcellation is safe for extracting renal tumours. The specimen can be evaluated for histology but not for pathological staging, limiting its use with transitional cell carcinoma. Port‐site seeding is rare, and does not appear to be more frequent than with open nephrectomy. Although morcellation is cosmetically more desirable, there was no significant advantage in operating time, pain or duration of hospital stay. The choice of extraction method depends on the surgeon's preference and patient choice.

     

Efficacy and safety of fast-track recovery strategy for patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Factors that adversely affect early recovery after major laparoscopic procedures include ileus, pain, nausea, emesis, and fatigue. The objective of this randomized controlled study was to evaluate the impact of a multimodal fast-track (FT) rehabilitation program on recovery and length of hospital stay after laparoscopic nephrectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy received either conventional care (control) or an FT recovery program. All patients received a standardized anesthetic technique and patient- controlled analgesia (morphine) for postoperative pain control. In the FT group, patients received premedication with rofecoxib and ranitidine, local anesthesia was administered at the ports and renal fosa during surgery, and postoperative non-opioid analgesic and gastrokinetic drugs were administered as part of an early enteral nutrition and mobilization program. During the postoperative period, pain and nausea were assessed at specific time intervals. In addition, recovery room and hospital discharge times, the need for rescue analgesics and antiemetics, patient satisfaction with pain management and quality of recovery, and side effects were recorded daily for 3 days after surgery. Patients were discharged home when they met previously defined discharge criteria. RESULTS: The FT group was discharged earlier from the recovery room (74+/-23 v 103+/-47 minutes) and the hospital (41+/-11 v 59+/-11 hours). Pain and nausea scores were consistently lower in the FT group during the first 48 hours after surgery. In addition, the requirement for antiemetic rescue therapy during the first 24 hours was reduced in the FT group (15% v 58%). The FT group also received less morphine during the first 2 postoperative days (14+/-16 v 40+/-24 mg). Finally, patient satisfaction with postoperative pain control was significantly higher in the FT group. CONCLUSIONS: A multimodal approach to minimizing postoperative side effects led to a reduced recovery room and hospital stay, as well as better pain control and patient satisfaction after laparoscopic nephrectomy.     

A prospective comparison of transperitoneal and retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy in the extremely obese patient

OBJECTIVE: To prospectively compare the outcomes of transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy (TLN) and retroperitoneal LN (RLN) in extremely obese patients, as LN in such patients (body mass index, BMI >/= 40 kg/m(2)) is an accepted but technically challenging undertaking, and either approach to the kidney can be used. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between July 1998 and August 2005, 51 consecutive patients with extreme obesity had 53 LNs at our institution (13 TLN and 40 RLN). Peri-operative data were collected prospectively in a database approved by the Institutional Review Board. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the two approaches for several variables, including baseline BMI (44 vs 45; P = 0.23), muscle-splitting extraction incision length (7.0 vs 7.7 cm; P = 0.53), and intraoperative complications (none vs 5%; P = 0.99). RLN tended to cause less estimated blood loss (EBL, 150 vs 100 mL; P = 0.31), a shorter operation (190 vs 180 min; P = 0.11), larger specimen weight (682 vs 938 g; P = 0.078), lower intraoperative open conversion rate (15% vs 0%; P = 0.06), and a shorter hospital stay (53.6 vs 37.5 h; P = 0.33), although none of these variables was statistically significant at P < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: In the extremely obese patient, RLN tended to have advantages in EBL, operative duration, specimen weight, open conversion rate, and duration of hospital stay. RLN provides direct access to the renal hilum, and avoids the pannus and voluminous intra-abdominal fat encountered during TLN. These data and our experience support RLN as the technique of choice for LN in the extremely obese patient.     

Single access site laparoscopic radical nephrectomy: initial clinical experience

PURPOSE: We present the initial clinical experience with single access site (SAS) laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An 86-year-old woman presented with an 8-cm central-enhancing right renal lesion. The patient elected to undergo a laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. A 7-cm paramedian incision was made just lateral to the left rectus muscle and cranial to the umbilicus. A GelPort was inserted into the incision. Three trocars (12 mm, 10 mm, and 5 mm) were placed through the access port, and only standard laparoscopic instruments were used. The kidney was mobilized in the standard fashion. Controlling the renal artery with nonabsorbable polymer clips and the renal vein with a stapling device, the specimen was manipulated into a laparoscopic retrieval bag and removed intact. Hemostasis was confirmed, the GelPort was removed, and the 7-cm incision was closed. RESULTS: The procedure was completed in 96 minutes without complications. Blood loss was estimated to be 10 mL. Postoperatively, the patient was treated with intermittent intravenous and oral analgesics. She was discharged on postoperative day 2 and tolerated a regular diet. CONCLUSION: This represents the initial report of an SAS laparoscopic radical nephrectomy, with intact specimen extraction. Using standard laparoscopic instrumentation, the procedure was performed safely and effectively, with minimal blood loss, and short hospitalization. Additional evaluation and development of this type of approach and instrumentation may allow for further expansion of SAS laparoscopic surgery in the future.     

Muscle-splitting posterolateral thoracotomy: a novel technique

PURPOSE: In an effort to decrease the morbidity of a standard posterolateral thoracotomy, numerous muscle-sparing approaches have been developed. However, these incisions have been limited by the need for excessive muscle retraction with resultant neuropraxia, difficulty with exposure, and postoperative wound seroma. We report our results of a novel muscle-splitting thoracotomy incision, which affords excellent exposure without significant morbidity. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 37 consecutive patients who underwent "muscle-splitting" thoracotomy from June 1997 to June 1998. The technique, which involves a bidirectional spread of the latissimus dorsi and serratus anterior muscles, was performed by the same attending surgeon in all patients. RESULTS: There were 22 male and 15 female patients, aged 26 to 81 (mean, 58), with a body mass index ranging from 18 to 40 kg/m(2) (mean, 25 kg/m(2)). Procedures included lobectomy/segmentectomy (19), wedge resection (5), pneumonectomy (2), Belsey IV fundoplication (5), Ivor-Lewis esophagogastrectomy (1), T8/T9 thoracic exposure (1), and miscellaneous thoracic cases (4). Operative time ranged from 90 minutes to 420 minutes (mean, 176), which was comparable with similar procedures through a standard incision. No patients required conversion to a muscle-cutting thoracotomy. CONCLUSIONS: Our technique of muscle-splitting posterolateral thoracotomy appears to provide excellent operative exposure and to avoid problems seen with current muscle-sparing incisions. A prospective, randomized trial to compare this technique with a standard thoracotomy incision would be useful in determining its viability as an alternative thoracic approach.     

Hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

BACKGROUND: Among patients with renal insufficiency secondary to autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), the onset of refractory urinary infection, hypertension, pain, or hematuria often necessitates a nephrectomy. However, the huge size of these kidneys makes a standard laparoscopic approach difficult, and the increased fragility of these patients makes an open nephrectomy risky. A compromise position has been found in the realm of hand-assisted laparoscopic techniques, especially for patients in need of a bilateral nephrectomy. TECHNIQUE: Hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy (HALN) is performed via a hand-assist device placed in the midline. A subxiphoid midline port and a midclavicular subcostal port are placed on the ipsilateral side. The right hand is inserted for left nephrectomy and the left hand for a right nephrectomy. The laparoscope is introduced into the subxiphoid port, and the surgeon's primary working instrument is passed via the midclavicular port. Occasionally, it is helpful to place a 5-mm subcostal port in the midaxillary line to aid in retracting the kidney. Once the kidney is devascularized, it is removed via the 7- to 8-cm hand-assist incision; drainage of cysts may be necessary during extraction to reduce the kidney size so that it can be withdrawn. If a bilateral approach is to be done, then after the first nephrectomy, the lateral 5-mm port is closed, and the table is rolled such that the contralateral side is elevated about 30 degrees to 45 degrees; a subcostal midclavicular 12-mm port is placed, and, if needed, a 5-mm port is inserted subcostally in the midaxillary line for renal retraction. RESULTS: Seven bilateral hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy cases have been reported. In two reports, the mean operating times were 4.8 and 5.5 hours. The mean estimated blood loss was <350 mL. CONCLUSION: The hand-assisted laparoscopic approach makes both unilateral and bilateral nephrectomy feasible in ADPKD patients with acceptable morbidity.     

Laparoscopic renal surgery in infants 10 kg or less

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Major laparoscopic urologic procedures have been successful in children, but few reports of laparoscopic surgery in infants weighing <10 kg exist. We present our series of laparoscopic renal procedures in such patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The hospital records of 17 consecutive patients (9 boys, 8 girls) with a median age of 7 months (range 1-25 months) weighing a mean of 8.5 kg (range 4.2-10 kg) who had undergone laparoscopic renal surgery (nephrectomy, partial nephrectomy, nephroureterectomy) between March 1999 and January 2004 were reviewed. Twelve patients underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy, three laparoscopic nephroureterectomy, and two laparoscopic heminephrectomy. Additional procedures were performed concomitantly in three patients. RESULTS: All operations had minimal estimated blood loss. Excluding those patients who underwent additional procedures, the mean operative time was 138 minutes (range 77-229 minutes). The postoperative hospitalization was 23 hours or less in all except two patients, both of whom had undergone additional procedures. The only complication was an intraoperative diaphragmatic injury that was repaired laparoscopically without sequelae. There were no delayed complications, and by 2 weeks postoperatively, all patients were recovered fully. CONCLUSION: Major laparoscopic urologic procedures can be performed in infants weighing <10 kg with low morbidity and rapid recovery.     

Rapid communication: chronic renal insufficiency after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy and radical nephrectomy for pathologic t1a lesions

PURPOSE: To report the prevalence of new-onset renal insufficiency in patients undergoing laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) as compared to laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) for pathologic T1a lesions. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-eight patients and 37 patients with a normal contralateral kidney, preoperative creatinine (Cr) concentration <2 mg/dL, and tumors <4 cm in size underwent LPN and LRN, respectively. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated using an abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. Cr concentrations and GFR values were analyzed in patients undergoing LPN or LRN. Statistical analysis was performed with two-tailed t-test assuming unequal variances, to establish significance by P < 0.05. RESULTS: Preoperative Cr and GFR was equivalent in the LPN and LRN groups (0.9 mg/dL and 90 mL/min). At last follow-up (mean 205 and 233 days in the LPN and LRN groups, respectively) mean creatinine was 1.03 +/- 0.3 mg/dL v 1.4 mg/dL +/- 0.3 (P = 0.0002). Estimated GFR was 79 +/- 22 mL/min per 1.73 m2 v 55 +/- 14 mL/min per 1.73 m2 (range 31-91 mL/min per 1.73 m2; P < .0001) in the LPN and LRN groups, respectively. One patient in the LPN group and three patients in the LRN group had clinical renal insufficiency as defined by Cr > 2.0 mg/dL. Subclinical renal insufficiency (Cr < 2.0, but calculated GFR <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2) was present in 57% of the LRN patients v 15% of the LPN patients. CONCLUSIONS: LPN preserves renal function more effectively than LRN for pathologic T1a lesions. Subclinical renal insufficiency (GFR <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2) was present in the majority of patients undergoing radical nephrectomy in our series. Importantly, this series included the use of warm ischemia in all cases.     

Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy for Renal Tumor: The Washington University Experience

Purpose

We report our experience with laparoscopic radical nephrectomy in 17 consecutive patients with renal tumors.

Materials and Methods

The clinical data on 17 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic radical nephrectomy were reviewed. Of the patients 12 with stage pT1 or pT2 renal cell carcinoma 7 cm. in diameter or smaller undergoing laparoscopic radical nephrectomy were compared to 12 undergoing open radical nephrectomy for stage pT1 or pT2 renal cell carcinoma 6 cm. in diameter or smaller.

Results

Among the 17 patients undergoing laparoscopic radical nephrectomy average operative time was 6.9 hours (range 4.5 to 9) and average estimated blood loss was 105 cc (range 50 to 600). Average weight of the surgical specimen was 402 gm. (range 190 to 1,100). In 12 of 16 patients in whom laparoscopic radical nephrectomy was completed the specimen was removed intact. The patients required an average of 24 mg. morphine sulfate equivalent (range 2 to 220) for postoperative pain. Average hospital stay was 4.5 days (range 3 to 11) and average interval to resume normal activities was 3.5 weeks (range 2 to 4).The 12 patients in the open and laparoscopic radical nephrectomy groups were similar with respect to age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score and interval of surgery. Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy required significantly more operative time than open radical nephrectomy (6.9 versus 2.2 hours, respectively). However, the laparoscopic radical nephrectomy group compared to the open radical nephrectomy group had significantly less postoperative pain (24 versus 40 mg. morphine sulfate equivalent required for postoperative analgesia), shorter interval to resuming oral intake (1 versus 3 days), more rapid discharge from the hospital (4.5 versus 8.4 days) and more rapid return to normal activities (3.5 versus 5.1 weeks). The laparoscopic nephrectomy group also fully recovered more rapidly than the open surgical group (5.8 versus 39 weeks). To date, during a 4-year period there was no retroperitoneal recurrence or seeding of a port site.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is a lengthy and demanding procedure. However, it affords patients with renal cell carcinoma a markedly improved postoperative course while accomplishing the necessary surgical goals.     

Sequential bilateral minimum incision endoscopic radical nephrectomy in dialysis patients with bilateral renal cell carcinomas

Since 1998, we have performed minimum incision endoscopic surgery (MIES) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC). For seven dialysis patients with bilateral RCC, we have performed sequential bilateral MIES radical nephrectomy. It was carried out by retroperitoneal approach through a single minimum incision that narrowly permitted extraction of the specimen using endoscopy and direct stereovision, without trocar ports, without gas insufflation and without the insertion of the hands of operators into the operative field. Although six of the seven patients had multiple complications in addition to chronic renal failure (CRF), bilateral kidneys were successfully removed by sequential MIES radical nephrectomy without major operative complication. Postoperative recovery was prompt with all patients resuming oral feeding and walking by the second postoperative day. Sequential bilateral MIES radical nephrectomy, leaving the peritoneal cavity intact and without imposing circulatory stress caused by gas insufflation, is a feasible treatment for bilateral RCCs in dialysis patients.     

RETROPERITONEAL LAPAROSCOPIC VERSUS OPEN RADICAL NEPHRECTOMY

PURPOSE: We analyze the retroperitoneal approach to laparoscopic radical nephrectomy in regard to feasibility, safety, morbidity and cancer control, and compare results and outcomes in patients who underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic or open radical nephrectomy from 1995 to 1998. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The records of 58 consecutive patients with renal cancer who underwent radical nephrectomy from 1995 through 1998 were reviewed. Of the patients 29 underwent open radical nephrectomy (group 1) and 29 underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (group 2). Various parameters were compared and statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: The 2 groups were similar in regard to age, gender and side of the tumor. Operative time was slightly shorter in group 1 (mean 121.4 versus 145 minutes in group 2, p = 0.047). Mean tumor size plus or minus standard deviation was larger in group 1 (5.71 +/- 2.01 versus 4.02 +/- 1.87 cm. in group 2). Group 2 patients had significantly less operative blood loss (mean 100.0 versus 284.5 ml. in group 1, p < 0.005) and used significantly less parenteral pain medication (p < 0.05). Postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in group 1 (9.7 +/- 3.6 versus 4.8 +/- 2.0 days in group 2, p < 0.001), and the complication rate was higher (24 versus 8%, respectively). One group 1 patient died of renal cancer (pT2G2) after 14 months and local recurrence with hepatic metastasis occurred after 9 months in a group 2 patient with a pT3G2 tumor. CONCLUSIONS: Retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for kidney cancer requires further assessment. It seems to have several advantages over open radical nephrectomy, and to be effective and safe for less than 50 cm. renal tumors but a risk of spillage cannot be ruled out for larger tumors.