Transumbilical laparoendoscopic single-site radical nephrectomy: primary experience and results

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the safety and primary outcomes of transumbilical laparoendoscopic single-site radical nephrectomy (LESS-RN) by using home-made single-port device. Methods From July 2010 to November 2011,we had performed transumbilical LESS-RN on eleven renal cell carcinoma patients by using the home-made single-port device.There were 5 males and 6 females in this group.The mean age was 49 (37 -68) years and mean body mass index was 24.2 (18.4 -30.4) kg/m2.Ultrasound and CT scan revealed 11 renal tumors (7 on left and 4 on right),with 3 on the upper pole,4 in the middle and 4 in the lower pole.There were 2 cases with suspicious lymph node metastasis and one case with renal cyst.There was no distant metastasis.The intracorporal procedure was similar to conventional laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. Results Except two cases converted to conventional laparoscopic RN and one case converted to hand-assisted laparoscopic RN,the other procedures were completed successfully without open conversion.The mean operative time was 225 min (155 -297 min) and mean estimated blood loss was 271 ml (50 -900 ml).Postoperative results showed that all cases were renal cell carcinoma and there were 3 cases in T1a,5 cases in T1b and 3 cases in T2a.The mean visual analog pain scale (VAPS) was 4 (3 -6),and mean hospital stay was 10 d (5 -15 d).With the mean follow-up of 17 months (8 -24 months),all patients were alive with no evidence of local recurrence or metastasis.Patients were satisfied with the cosmetic results of the wound recovery. Conclusions Transumbilical LESS-RN using home-made single-port device is a safe approach in selected patients and has excellent cosmetic results. Primary oncologic outcomes are good.However,we will still need large clinic trials to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of LESSRN. Key words: Renal cell carcinoma; Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery; Nephrectomy; Surgical technique