Laparoscopic pyelolithotomy in a horseshoe kidney.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Horseshoe kidney is the most common renal anomaly, affecting 0.25% of the population.
• Renal pelvic stones in horseshoe kidneys present unique surgical challenges due to anatomical variations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of successful laparoscopic pyelolithotomy for renal pelvic stones in a patient with a horseshoe kidney.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic pyelolithotomy in this specific patient population.

Main Methods:

• A 50-year-old male patient with a horseshoe kidney and left kidney stones was treated.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy was considered high-risk due to pelviocalyceal malrotation and potential bowel interposition.
• Laparoscopic pyelolithotomy was performed as the preferred surgical approach.

Main Results:

• The patient was rendered stone-free following the laparoscopic pyelolithotomy.
• No complications were observed during or after the procedure.
• The patient was discharged within 72 hours post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic pyelolithotomy is a safe and effective treatment option for renal pelvic stones in the context of a horseshoe kidney.
• This approach can be advantageous when percutaneous nephrolithotomy poses significant risks.