Operative strategy in laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Nephrectomy is a debilitating procedure because of the trauma to the abdominal wall. Laparoscopy could be a solution in this matter. Four patients underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy. In 3 patients with renal cancer, the transperitoneal route was used in order to obtain quicker access to the hilus. In the fourth patient with benign disease, a retroperitoneal route was chosen. There was no morbidity or mortality. Mean hospital stay was 5 days. Laparoscopic nephrectomy is safe and effective. Larger series are needed for evaluation of the long-term results in the treatment or renal cancer.