title: The evolving role of laparoscopic surgery in paediatric urology.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We review the various applications of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted laparoscopy in paediatric urology, as the laparoscopic and robotic approach in this population is gradually being recognised.
  
  
  METHODS
  We searched PubMed for human studies in English that were published between 1990 and the present, focusing on laparoscopic nephrectomies and partial nephrectomies, laparoscopic and robotic pyeloplasties and ureteric reimplantation, laparoscopic orchidopexy and varicocelectomy. We also reviewed robotic-assisted laparoscopic urological major reconstructions. Key articles were reviewed, extracting the indications, techniques, and the advantages and disadvantages.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Laparoscopy has a defined place in modern paediatric urological surgery. Laparoscopic nephrectomies, pyeloplasties and abdominal exploration for the evaluation and management of impalpable undescended testicles have become the standard of care. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery is developing as a safe and effective option even for infant patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Paediatric Urology, UC Irvine and Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Guy
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Hidas
authors.affiliation: Department of Paediatric Urology, UC Irvine and Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Blake
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Watts
authors.affiliation: Department of Paediatric Urology, UC Irvine and Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, CA, USA.
authors.forename: Antoine E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Khoury
keywords: FSO, Fowler-Stephens orchidopexy; L(P)N, laparoscopic (partial) nephrectomy; LO, laparoscopic orchidopexy; LP, laparoscopic pyeloplasty; LUR, laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation; LV, laparoscopic varicocelectomy; Laparoscopic surgery; Nephrectomy; Orchidopexy; Paediatric; Pyeloplasty; Reimplantation; Robotic; UDT, undescended testis; Undescended testes