Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy with saline-irrigated KTP laser in a porcine model

To evaluate the feasibility of using the potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser to perform laparoscopic partial nephrectomy in a porcine model, with saline irrigation to reduce intraoperative smoke formation.

A high-power (80 W) KTP laser was used without hilar occlusion in 14 laparoscopic partial nephrectomies in four pigs. During laser discharge, the cutting plane was irrigated continuously with saline.

Thirteen partial nephrectomies were completed. Hemostasis was obtained without the need for any non-laser techniques. Only minimal smoke was produced, not affecting visibility or the progress of surgery. Histologic examination of the resection margin showed only minimal tissue destruction. One procedure failed because the laser fiber broke and occluded the suction during the operation. The mean partial nephrectomy time was 13.14 minutes (range 7-19 minutes) with a mean estimated blood lost of 28.57 mL (range 5-80 mL). The mean saline irrigation used for each operation was 2600 mL (range 1500-3400 mL), and the amount of saline drained out was 1700 mL (range 900-3200 mL).

Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy using the 80 W KTP laser is feasible and effective in the porcine model. Saline irrigation dramatically reduces smoke formation. The technique is deserving of clinical studies after the laser-application device and suction irrigation are refined.