A Prospective Study Comparing Quality of Life after Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy versus Open Donor Nephrectomy

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Transplant Surgery
• Quality of Life Research

Background:

• Open donor nephrectomy (ODN) is associated with donor recovery, but its long-term quality of life (QOL) impact is less understood.
• Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) offers surgical benefits like reduced bleeding and pain, but comparative QOL data is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the QOL, cosmesis, and patient satisfaction between laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) and open donor nephrectomy (ODN).

Main Methods:

• A prospective study included 228 kidney donors (100 LDN, 128 ODN) from 2013-2015.
• QOL was assessed using WHOQOL-BREF and HADS questionnaires preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively.
• Cosmesis and satisfaction were evaluated using specific questionnaires at 3 and 6 months.

Main Results:

• LDN demonstrated superior QOL scores across all domains at 3 and 6 months compared to ODN.
• The LDN group showed long-term improvements in psychological and social QOL domains, while ODN showed decreases.
• LDN resulted in significantly better cosmesis and higher donor satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) significantly enhances donor quality of life and satisfaction compared to open donor nephrectomy (ODN).
• LDN minimizes the negative surgical impact on donors' well-being, particularly in psychological and social aspects.
• LDN is a preferred technique for kidney donation due to improved QOL and cosmetic outcomes.