Laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) retroperitoneal nephropexy with standard laparoscopic instruments

Abstract

A 65-year-old female suffered from recurrent urinary tract infection and intermittent right-flank soreness when active. Serial renal ultrasonography and supine/erect intravenous (i.v.) pyelography work-up revealed a floating right kidney with a descent of two vertebral bodies. A Laparoendoscopic single-site retroperitoneal nephropexy was performed. A homemade single port was created by using a commercially available wound retractor through a 3-cm incision at the tip of the 12th rib. With conventional 5-mm laparoscopy and instruments, a retroperitoneal nephropexy was perfomed. The procedure was completed successfully without any complication and with minimal blood loss. The total operative time was 110 minutes. The postoperative course was uneventful. The follow-up erect i.v. pyelographies revealed a normal right kidney position without descent. Laparoendoscopic single-site retroperitoneal nephropexy was a safe, effective procedure, according to our initial experience.