Laparoscopic use of the ureteral illuminator

Laparoscopic identification of the ureters is complicated by decreased tactile sensation and magnified video imaging. We report our experience in placing a ureteral illuminator to aid in ureteral identification prior to six laparoscopic urologic procedures. The ureteral illuminator facilitated laparoscopic ureteral identification during five nephoureterectomies and one ureterolithotomy. Illuminator placement required a minimum of anesthetic time and resulted in no complications. Preoperative placement of a ureteral illuminator aids laparoscopic ureteral identification and may reduce the incidence of inadvertent ureteral injury.