Laparoscopic retroperitoneal nephrectomy: overcoming the learning curves

Abstract

Objective: To assess the results of retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy at a single centre. Materials and methods: A retrospective study of 40 patients (group A: initial 20, group B: late 20 cases) who underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy was done. Analysis of the complication rate, conversion rate to open surgery, operative time and the blood loss and analgesia requirement were studied. Results: Laparoscopic retroperitoneal nephrectomy was carried out successfully in 60% cases of group A and in 95% cases of group B cases. There was a statistically significant reduction in the blood loss and duration of surgery in group B. Analgesia requirement was not different in either group. Conclusions: Retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy has a steep learning curve. Results of the procedure improved and complications reduced significantly after the initial 20 cases.

Keywords

• Laparoscopy; Learning curve; Nephrectomy; Retroperitoneum