Minilaparoscopy in urology: initial results after 32 cases

Abstract

Purpose: The use of minilaparoscopic instruments has gained interest in recent years, permitting a less invasive treatment for many surgical procedures. Its application in urological surgeries has not been established yet.

Methods: Between November 2012 and December 2014, 32 patients underwent minilaparoscopic surgeries, using 3.5-mm instruments. The procedures performed included pyeloplasties (16 cases), radical nephrectomies (2), simple nephrectomies (4), renal cyst decortication (5), ureterolithotomy (2) ureteral reimplantation (2) and partial ureterectomy (1).

Results: All the procedures were performed minilaparoscopically, except for one simple nephrectomy and one renal cyst decortication that were converted to a standard laparoscopic approach, due to intensive perioperative bleeding. One pyeloplasty had to be reoperated for a urinary fistula repair. All the patients had good-to-excellent cosmetic outcomes, except for one patient who developed keloids at her scars. Functional results were comparable to the ones described in the literature.

Conclusion: Minilaparoscopy is a feasible option for patients and physicians searching for a even less invasive procedure compared with the laparoscopic approach, with better cosmetic and the same functional and oncologic outcomes.

Keywords: Minilaparoscopy; Renal; Surgery; Ureteral; Urology.