Laparoscopic nephrectomy for benign renal disease

Objective To perform nephrectomies in patients with benign renal conditions using laparoscopic techniques. Patients and methods A total of five patients with benign renal conditions were treated. Three of the patients were morbidly obese. The operative technique was similar to a transperitoneal nephrectomy and was performed through four to six abdominal ports. Initial dissection involved mobilization of the overlying right colon to expose the retroperitoneum. Early identification of the inferior vena cava and ureter was critical to subsequent dissection and particularly to the exposure of the renal vessels. These vessels were controlled by either Endo-GIA staples (Autosuture Co., USA) or vicryl ties and haemaclips prior to division