Comparison of retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy with open surgery for tuberculous nonfunctioning kidneys

PURPOSE: We describe, define and evaluate the role of retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy for tuberculous nonfunctioning kidneys, and compare the results with those of open nephrectomy in similar cases in a nonrandomized study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Beginning in July 1994, 9 patients underwent retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy for tuberculous nonfunctioning kidneys at our center. Data obtained from the records of these patients were compared with those of 9 who underwent open nephrectomy for a similar indication during the same period. Retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy was initially performed by kidney dissection followed by ligation of the hilar vessels. The technique was subsequently modified and the vessels controlled before dissecting the kidney. Various parameters were compared and statistical analysis was done. RESULTS: The 2 groups were similar in regard to patient age, gender and side of disease. Retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy was successful in 7 of the 9 patients. Although 2 of our initial patients required conversion to open surgery, the remaining 7 successfully underwent retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy after modifying the technique. Mean operative time was slightly greater in the retroperitoneoscopy than in the open surgery group (103.3 versus 92.2 minutes). Mean blood loss was less in the retroperitoneoscopy group (101.4 versus 123.3 ml.), mean hospital stay plus or minus standard deviation was significantly shorter (3.2 +/- 0.83 versus 8.88 +/- 3.37 days) and mean time to return to work was significantly less (3 versus 7 weeks). Mean analgesic requirement for opioids and diclofenac sodium was also lower in the retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy group (0 versus 1.44 +/- 0.72 and 3.8 +/- 1.3 versus 4.3 +/- 1.2 doses, respectively). Minor complications developed in only 2 retroperitoneoscopy cases. CONCLUSIONS: Tuberculosis has been considered a contraindication to retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy due to a high conversion rate. However, we believe that our modified technique of retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy is a viable option for managing tuberculous nonfunctioning kidneys. The conversion rate is lower than previously reported. Comparing our results with those of open nephrectomy shows that retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy is beneficial in all respects except for slightly longer operative time. Because of the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, this approach should be considered in such cases.