Abstract
Purpose
: This paper sets out to review our experience with laparoscopic nephrectomy in a pediatric population during the years 1994-1999.
Patients and Methods
: There were 27 laparoscopic nephrectomies performed during this period in children aged 7 months to 16 years. One operation was converted to an open procedure because of hemorrhage from the renal pedicle, which could not be controlled adequately via the laparoscope. Two kidneys could not be identified laparoscopically, and one of these could not be found by a subsequent open approach.
Results
: The average length of the procedure and postoperative stay decreased with increasing experience in performing the operation. There were four postoperative complications: one infected port site, two incisional hernias, and one case of urinary ascites. The cosmetic result in all cases was satisfactory.
Conclusion
: In the current climate of minimal access surgery, we suggest that laparoscopic nephrectomy has a significant role in selected children requiring kidney removal.
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