[Single trocar laparoscopic surgery: a report of 45 cases].

Objective: To report the initial urological applications of single trocar laparoscopic surgery.

Methods: From April to December 2010, a total of 45 urologic patients underwent single trocar laparoscopic surgery. The procedures included high ligations of spermatics vessels (n = 17), unroofing of renal cysts (n = 24) and ureterolithotomy (n = 4). Transperitoneal approach: A 15 mm incision was made in umbilicus and CO(2) pneumoperitoneum created. A 10-mm trocar was inserted into enterocoelia. After the installation of single punch laparoscope (STROZ), the operating instruments were guided through integrated working channel to complete operative procedures. Retroperitoneal approach: A 15 mm incision was made above the diseased-side crista iliaca for around 4 cm. Retroperitoneal cavity was prepared for retroperitoneoscopy with the IUPU (Institute of Urology, Peking University) technique. In the same way, a 10-mm trocar was inserted. And the single punch laparoscope was installed to complete operative procedures.

Results: The procedures were successful in 41 cases. But the others (renal cysts, n = 2; ureteral calculus, n = 2) were successfully managed by adding a 5 mm trocar. Operation time: transperitoneal approach, 23 - 70 min; retroperitoneal approach, 45 - 175 min. The intra-operative volume of blood loss was minimal. And the hospital stay was 1 - 5 days. No significant postoperative complication occurred.

Conclusion: For some relatively simple procedures, a new and more minimally invasive approach of single trocar laparoscopic surgery may be attempted.