Laparoscopic Nephrectomy in Children: Experience at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University
Worawat Kaewwichian MD*, Kachit Pacheerat MD*, Ekkarin Chotikawanich MD*
Affiliation : * Urology Division, Department of Surgery, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
Background : Laproscopic nephrectomy has become a popular procedure since first being introduced in 1990.
Objective : Evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of laparoscopic pediatric nephrectomy.
Material and Method: The authors reviewed the in-patient medical records at Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kean University
between 2007 and 2011. Laparoscopic nephrectomy was performed on 9 pediatric patients. The demographic data, indications
for surgery, route of approach and peri-operative outcomes were analyzed.
Results : Ten nephrectomies (6 L; 4 R) were performed on the nine patients (mean age 8.8 years: 7 males; 2 females). One
patient underwent a bilateral nephrectomy at a different time. A trans-and retro-peritoneal approach was used on 1 and 9
cases, respectively. The respective mean operative time and hospital stay was 108.8 minutes and 5.8 days. The mean
estimated blood loss was 31.8 ml (minimal-100 ml): no blood transfusion was required. Post-operatively, there were no
major complications and the mean pain score was 2.3 (0-5). Only one patient was converted to an open nephrectomy and that
due to massive adhesion.
Conclusion : Laparoscopic pediatric nephrectomy has been a feasible and safe procedure at our institution.
Keywords : Laproscopic nephrectomy, Operative time, Pain score
