Simultaneous bilateral native nephrectomy by retroperitoneal approach

ABSTRACT The indication for simultaneous bilateral native nephrectomy and the choice of surgical technique is of key importance, as these patients are burdened with a large comorbidity. The paper reports our experience of seven successful and completed simultaneous bilateral native nephrectomy procedures with retroperitoneal approach in the patient’s flank position. Seven patients (mean age 34), were indicated for the removal of both kidneys before the planned transplant. Six patients underwent haemodialysis from 48 to 84 months, and one underwent peritoneal dialysis for 60 months. Two patients had undergone graftectomy. The indications were chronic infection or hypertension. The length of the kidneys ranged from 5.8 to 10cm. All procedures were performed by the laparoscopic technique with retroperitoneal approach, with the patient in the flank position. Three trocars were used on each side. The retroperitoneal space created did not require balloon dilatation. The kidneys were removed through the 10mm trocar hole after splitting. The duration of the procedure ranged from 150 to 240 minutes, average 139 minutes and blood loss ranged from100 to 250mL, average 142mL. There were no complications. In 6 patients, the postoperative dialysis was performed at zero-day. One patient continued peritoneal dialysis. Patients were discharged on the 2nd day, except one with peritoneal dialysis, who was discharged on the 3rd day. Retroperitoneal laparoscopic bilateral native nephrectomy is a safe and effective technique, and it can be considered as an ideal approach for native nephrectomy. It allows for the preservation of peritoneal integrity and vessels for future vascular access.