LAPAROSCOPIC PARTIAL NEPHRECTOMY WITH A MICROWAVE TISSUE COAGULATOR FOR SMALL RENAL TUMOR

Abstract

Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy is a challenging procedure due to the risk of excessive bleeding. We evaluated the usefulness of a microwave tissue coagulator during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for small renal tumor. From January to July 2000, 6 patients with small renal tumors, from 11 to 25 mm. in diameter, underwent laparoscopic partial nephrectomy with a microwave tissue coagulator without renal pedicle clamping. There were 4 patients who underwent the transperitoneal and 2 who underwent the retroperitoneal approaches. Mean operating time was 186 minutes (range 131 to 239), and blood loss was minimal. Complications were mild and tolerable, and there was no significant deterioration of renal function. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy with a microwave tissue coagulator is a useful and less invasive method for treatment of select small renal tumors. Long-term followup of patients is warranted to determine the potential for cancer control with this method.