Laparoscopic urology: past, present, and future

Abstract

Laparoscopy has begun to have a significant impact on the management of urologic problems. Although initially limited to diagnostic pediatric problems, it has more recently been used to resolve myriad adult urologic conditions. Indeed, during the past year laparoscopic urology has moved well beyond the diagnosis of the undescended testicle and has been successfully used for pelvic lymphadenectomy, varicocelectomy, ureterolysis, drainage of a pelvic lymphocele, bladder suspension, and nephrectomy. Future applications of laparoscopy in urology may well include nephroureterectomy, cystectomy, and creation of an ileal conduit.