Laparoscopy in transplantation.
BACKGROUND
Solid-organ transplantation has become the treatment of choice for patients with end-stage renal disease, end-stage liver failure, and some patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Similarly, surgical expertise and mechanical improvements have led to significant advances in laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic interventions are sometimes not pursued in transplant recipients due to the lack of strong supporting evidence for the use of laparoscopic techniques in these patients.


METHODS
Using an extensive literature search, we review herein the available data on the utility of laparoscopic interventions in transplant recipients, with particular attention to the risks and benefits, indications, and contraindications for this complex patient population.


RESULTS
Although randomized trials are few, multiple case reports indicate that many transplant recipients have benefited from laparoscopic interventions.


CONCLUSIONS
The well-known benefits of laparoscopy could be extended to transplant recipients.
Krajewski
Eduardo
E
Department of Surgery, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19141, USA. krajewskimd@yahoo.com
Soriano
Ian S
IS
Ortiz
Jorge
J
D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D016377:Organ Transplantation; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic