Transperitoneal Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy in a Patient With Severe Scoliosis

OBJECTIVE To report the first case of a left transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy in a patient with a severe left convex lumbar scoliosis and to elaborate on the technical difficulties of this procedure. METHODS The surgical procedure was performed by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon after rigorous pre-operative visualization of the altered visceral and vascular abdominal anatomy. A transperitoneal laparoscopic approach with an open introduction technique according to Hasson and a caudo-cranial dissection of the left renal hilum were performed to prevent major vascular and visceral injury in this challenging surgical procedure. RESULTS The operation time was 102 minutes and the estimated blood loss was 100 mL. The surgeon was able to complete the transperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy without complications. CONCLUSION Transperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy in patients with severe spinal deformities is feasible, but should only be performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons to ensure patient safety and cancer control. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc.