Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: Single-Center Experience

Abstract: Objective: Laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy (LLDN) has become the standard procedure for renal transplantation. This technique is considered less invasive for the donor, allowing lower postoperative analgesic requirements and a faster return to daily activities. In Japan, 1123 renal transplantation were performed in 2009. And, almost 83% were living related procedures. The aim of this study was a retrospective assessment of the safety and outcomes of LLDN on renal transplantations. Material and methods: We retrospectively analyzed the intraoperative data and surgical complications for 21 patients who underwent retroperitoneoscopic living donor nephrectomy between June 2009 and March 2011. Results: LLDN was successfully completed in all patients, without conversion to open surgery. Mean operative time was 243.5 ± 46.0 minutes with an average blood loss of 46.0 ± 46.1 mL. Warm ischemic time was 2.1 ± 0.62 minutes. Hospital stay was 11.1 ± 2.7 days. There were no major donor complications. One patient presented a wound infection responding to conservative treatment. Conclusions: LLDN is a safe effective procedure. The vascular stapler is useful to manage the renal vessels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]