Retroperitoneal laparoscopic combined with resectoscopic radical nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Objective To explore the therapeutic effect and application value of retroperitoneal laparoscopic combined with resectoscopic radical nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma Methods From Jan.2006 to Jul.2009,fifteen upper tract urothelial carcinoma patients underwent excision of bladder cuff with resectoscope at first,and then retroperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy.All tumors were confirmed to be localized,stage T1-T3.Clinical outcomes of the patients were retrospectively analyzed.Results Mean operative time was 150 (range:120-180) minutes and blood loss volume was 200 (range:100-400)ml.The function of intestinal canal recovered after 24-48 hours,the drainage tube could be removed after 3-4 days.Catheter was kept for 7-10 days.During the follow up for 1-40 months,all the 15 patients survived with one retroperitoneal lymphatic metastasis.There were no severe complications in perioperative and postoperative period.Conclusions Retroperitoneal laparoscopic combined with resectoscopic radical nephroureterectomy may be a practical surgical procedure for upper tract urothelial carcinoma patients with less intraoperative blood loss and early recovery. Key words: Upper tract urothelial carcinoma;  Retroperitoneal laparoscope;  Resectoscopic radical nephroureterectomy