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Updated: Jun 14, 2026

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Single Port Donor Nephrectomy
Published on: March 12, 2011
Laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) retroperitoneal nephropexy with standard laparoscopic instruments
Yao Chou Tsai1, Chen-Hsun Ho, Huai-Ching Tai
1Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Taipei Branch, Taipei, Taiwan. tsai1970523@yahoo.com.tw
Summary
A minimally invasive laparoscopic nephropexy successfully corrected a floating right kidney in a 65-year-old female, resolving flank pain and recurrent infections. This technique offers a safe and effective treatment for nephroptosis.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Nephrology
Background:
- Nephroptosis, or a floating kidney, can cause symptoms like flank pain and urinary tract infections.
- Traditional surgical correction often involves larger incisions and longer recovery times.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old female presented with recurrent urinary tract infections and right flank pain.
- Imaging revealed a right kidney descended by two vertebral bodies (nephroptosis).
Findings:
- A Laparoendoscopic single-site retroperitoneal nephropexy was successfully performed using a homemade port through a 3-cm incision.
- The procedure took 110 minutes with minimal blood loss and no complications.
- Postoperative imaging confirmed a normal kidney position without descent.
Implications:
- Laparoendoscopic single-site retroperitoneal nephropexy is a safe and effective minimally invasive option for treating symptomatic nephroptosis.
- This approach may reduce patient recovery time and morbidity compared to open surgery.
- Further studies are warranted to confirm long-term outcomes.
