Maintenance of pneumoperitoneum in retroperitoneoscopy: point of technique.

Background: Retroperitoneoscopic surgery has become an established armamentarium in the hands of urologist. We present a simple and cost-effective technique that aids in the maintenance of pneumoretroperitoneum.

Methods: Between June 2003 and December 2004, 150 retroperitoneal nephrectomies were performed with maintenance of the pneumoretroperitoneum using our technique.

Results: The retroperitoneal space was maintained in all patients with minimal or no leakage of carbon dioxide from the port site.

Conclusion: Our simple, cost-effective technique is highly reliable for the maintenance of pneumoretroperitoneum.