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Introduction: A retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy (RN) for symptomatic hydronephrosis (SH) is a challenging procedure because of the limited working space. This report describes a specific technical modification for efficient and successful RN for SH by using the SAND balloon catheter. Patient and Methods: A 38-year-old woman underwent RN for SH caused by extrinsic compression of the ureter by a pelvic endometriosis. The SAND balloon catheter was directly inserted into the expanded hydronephrotic sac, and the liquid was extracted, appropriately. Urine leakage from the hydronephrotic sac could be avoided because the puncture site was sealed firmly between the two adjacent balloons at the tip of the catheter. Disposal counter traction using the catheter facilitated the mobilization of the hydronephrotic sac. Results: The patient was discharged 3 days after undergoing this procedure. Conclusions: This method improves the surgeon's vision and facilitates resection without causing any injury to the hydronephrotic sac wall during RN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent reports on laparoscopic surgery for urachal anomalies have not described any techniques to restore the natural appearance of the umbilicus. In this report, we present a simple technique that enables complete resection of urachal anomalies while preserving the natural appearance of the umbilicus. Materials and Methods: Laparoscopic excision of symptomatic urachal anomalies was performed for 4 men and 2 women. After dissecting the urachal lesion along the preperitoneal plane toward the umbilicus, the cephalic side of the lesion was ligated and the skin at the base of the umbilicus was divided while compressing the anterior abdominal wall to ensure complete removal of the lesion. Results: The laparoscopic procedure was successfully completed with minimal blood loss, and the umbilicus could be restored to its natural appearance in all the cases. Conclusions: This is the first report to describe a procedure for restoring the natural appearance of the umbilicus. This simple, alternative approach yields better cosmetic results and, therefore, will be useful, especially in younger patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laparoscopic surgery has not yet met with widespread acceptance due to its degree of technical difficulty. The laparoscopic radical nephrectomy procedure was improved with the aid of an abdominal wall sealing device, a wound retractor, and a surgical glove. Methods: A 5 cm skin incision was made at the beginning of the operation. The Alexis wound retractor S was set up through this small incision. The wrist portion of the surgical glove (size 8-0) was then used to cover the outer ring of the wound retractor to maintain pneumoperitoneum. The surgeon can use most of the usual surgical instruments through the wound retractor during the laparoscopic surgery. Results: These procedures were successfully conducted in all cases without open conversion, and no postoperative complications were observed. Conclusions: Glove-assisted laparoscopic surgery can be used to perform advanced laparoscopic procedures. This new technique made laparoscopic abdominal surgery easier and safer for beginners in laparoscopic surgery and skilled surgeons in open surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]