Laparoscopic surgery in urological pelvic cancer

Abstract

Laparoscopy has become more widely used in urological practice, both for upper and lower urinary tracts. Improvements in instrumentation, and in surgeons' skills and experience have broadened the applications of laparoscopy. In particular, indications for laparoscopy in urological pelvic oncology have emerged as possible but still theoretical alternatives to conventional surgery. The development of the laparoscopic approach is still under close evaluation. Beyond these 'conventional' forms of laparoscopy, potential technical applications of computer assistance provide a glimpse of what could become the surgery of tomorrow.