Transperitoneal laparoendoscopic single-site pyeloplasty: initial experiences

The purpose of this study was to present our initial clinical experience with laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) for ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction.

Between May and October 2009, 14 consecutive patients underwent LESS-pyeloplasty (LESS-P) by the same surgeon at our institution. All patients underwent single port transperitoneal Anderson-Hynes laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty using the single incision laparoendoscopic surgery port, inserted through a transumbilical incision. Ultrasonography, intravenous urography (IVU) or diuretic renal scan was performed at the third month and semiannually thereafter. Patients were examined clinically every 3 to 6 months, depending on the symptoms. Radiographic success was defined as improvement of hydronephrosis with a patent UPJ on IVU, or improved drainage on diuretic renal scan.

Anterior crossing vessels, high insertion, and severe adhesion were found in seven (50%), five (35.7%), and two (14.3%) cases, respectively. The mean operating-room time, which includes cystoscopy with retrograde ureteral catheterization and open-end stent placement, was 204.5 minutes (range 160-300 min), and the mean estimated blood loss, including urine, was 102 mL (range 80-170 mL). Mean hospital stay was 2 days (range 1-3 d). Wound infection occurred in one patient. The mean follow-up period was 6.2 months (range, 3-8 mos). The success rate was 100%.

With the advent of the single port and laparoscopic instrument technology, the LESS-P, as minimally invasive surgery, would take the place of the standard laparoscopic pyeloplasty, and it may be a new choice for the management of UPJ obstruction.