[Hydronephrosis and urinary retention secondary to extrinsic compression by an ovarian cyst in a girl]

The indications for laparoscopy have increased markedly in the last few years. It is becoming necessary to define it's role and it's limits. Currently laparoscopy should only be used to treat ovarian tumors that are benign by clinical and ultrasonographic criteria. This case report describes a 12-year-old girl who presented with urinary retention and was found to have bilateral hydronephrosis and a ovarian cyst. She had no evidence of renal compromise and the cyst appeared benign by ultrasonographic criteria. The ovarian cyst appeared to be causing external bilateral ureteral compression. A laparoscopic cystectomy was performed with resolution of hydronephrosis. This case report helps illustrate the benefits and disadvantages of the laparoscopic approach to ovarian surgery.