Laparoscopic and open partial nephrectomy: a UK centre's experience

IntroductionLaparoscopy allows minimally invasive approaches for procedures traditionally performed openly, with associated lower morbidity. Nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) is mostly regarded as an open procedure because laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is technically challenging. We evaluated our centre's experience with LPN and open partial nephrectomy (OPN).MethodsAll patients over five years (2005–2010) undergoing NSS were identified retrospectively from our operating room management information system. Case notes, diagnostic and post-operative surveillance imaging were reviewed. Post-operative morbidity, histopathology and serum full blood count and urea and electrolyte reports were recorded.ResultsA total of 97 OPNs and 23 LPNs were performed. Median length of stay was six days for OPNs and three days for LPNs (p= 0.005). Mean drop in haemoglobin (Hb) was 2.6 g/dl for both OPNs and LPNs. No significant difference in transfusion rates was observed. Median warm ischaemia time (WIT) for OPNs was 14...