Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy: Is it ontologically safe?

Abstract

Objectives: Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) is emerging as a viable alternative to open radical ne-phrectomy for treatment of patients with localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, data regarding the onco-logic effectiveness of this minimally invasive treatment option is still scarce. We review the literature regarding the oncologic efficacy of this treatment, including our own experience. Methods: The current literature on LRN for treatment of patients with localized RCC, available on Medline, was reviewed. Results: Although the long-term results are not known current literature suggests that LRN is as effective as open radical nephrectomy for localized RCC. Conclusions: LRN is a safe and effective modality of treatment for patients with localized RCC. It does not pose any extra risk for port-site recurrence, local recurrence and distant metastasis over open radical nephrectomy. The survival outcomes are similar in both the techniques even at long term follow-up of 10 years.

Keywords

• Laparoscopy
• renal cell carcinoma
• radical nephrectomy
• recurrence
• survival.