Advances in pediatric urologic laparoscopy

The spectrum of laparoscopic surgery in children has undergone a dramatic evolution. Initially used as a diagnostic modality for many pediatric urologists, complex as well as reconstructive procedures are now being performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic orchiopexy and nephrectomy are well established and are being performed at many centers. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy, adrenalectomy, and dismembered pyeloplasty series have reported shortened hospital stays and operative times that are comparable to that of open techniques or are decreasing with experience. The initial experiences with laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation and laparoscopic-assisted bladder reconstructive surgery have been described, reporting encouraging results with regards to feasibility, hospital stay, and cosmetic outcome. This report will provide a directed review of the literature to establish the current indications for laparoscopy in pediatric urologic surgery.