Mini-incision open donor nephrectomy as an alternative to classic lumbotomy: evolution of the open approach

In Europe, the vast majority of transplant centres still performs open donor nephrectomy. This approach can therefore be considered the gold standard. At our institution, classic lumbotomy (CL) was replaced by a mini-incision anterior flank incision (MIDN) thereby preserving the integrity of the muscles. Data of 60 donors who underwent MIDN were compared with 86 historical controls who underwent CL without rib resection. Median incision length measured 10.5 and 20 cm (MIDN versus CL, P < 0.001). Median operation time was 158 and 144 min (P = 0.02). Blood loss was significantly less after MIDN (median 210 vs. 300 ml, P = 0.01). Intra-operatively, 4 (7%) and 1 (1%) bleeding episodes occurred. Postoperatively, complications occurred in 12% in both groups (P = 1.00). Hospital stay was 4 and 6 days (P < 0.001). In one (2%) and 11 (13%) donors (P = 0.02) late complications related to the incision occurred. After correction for baseline differences, recipient serum creatinine values were not significantly different during the first month following transplantation. In conclusion, MIDN is a safe approach, which reduces blood loss, hospital stay and the number of incision related complications when compared with CL with only a modest increase in operation time.