Open Access

RESIDENT’S CORNER

Laparoscopic pelvic nephrectomy: essential preoperative and intraoperative considerations

Kelly A. Healy¹, Andrew Margules², Chandan Kundavaram¹, Scott G. Hubosky¹, Costas D. Lallas¹

1 Department of Urology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
2 Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Address correspondence to Dr. KellyA. Healy, Department of Urology, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut Street, Room 1112 Curtis Building, Philadelphia, PA19107 USA

Canadian Journal of Urology 2012, 19(3), 6299-6302.

Abstract

Pelvic kidneys are typically asymptomatic, but surgical intervention may be required in select cases.Laparoscopic pelvic nephrectomy is a feasible option. Given the highly variable vascular anatomy, careful surgical planning and meticulous technique are necessary. We present our experience with this minimally invasive approach. A 46-year-old male with a painful, non-functioning left pelvic kidney initially underwent left ureteral stent placement. He was noncompliant and lost to follow up. He re-presented and elected for laparoscopic pelvic nephrectomy. The procedure was performed without complications. Key features included detailed preoperative vascular imaging, ureteral catheterization, optimal port placement, and dissection from a cephalad to caudal direction. Laparoscopic nephrectomy is a safe and effcacious treatment for diseased pelvic kidneys.

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