Initial experience with retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy: use of a double-balloon technique.
OBJECTIVE
To report the initial experience with retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy for symptomatic, end-stage vesicoureteral reflux.


METHODS
Two patients underwent a nephroureterectomy by a four-port retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach. In 1 patient, a double-balloon technique was used to dissect the pelvic extraperitoneal space and gain access to the juxtavesical ureter. In the second patient, the distal ureter was mobilized with routine laparoscopic dissection techniques.


RESULTS
Operative time was 6 and 5.5 hours, respectively, and mean hospital stay was 4 days. Mean patient follow-up is 17.5 months.


CONCLUSIONS
The technique of retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy is in evolution; until now, a major concern has been the inadequate access to the distal ureter through a completely retroperitoneoscopic approach. Described herein is a double-balloon technique that significantly facilitates dissection of the juxtavesical ureter during a retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephroureterectomy.
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D009399:Nephrons / Q000601:surgery*; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods; D014513:Ureter / Q000601:surgery*; D014718:Vesico-Ureteral Reflux / Q000601:surgery*