Laparoscopic Heminephrectomy for Benign Disease of the Horseshoe Kidney

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Minimally invasive surgery plays a definitive role in the management of complications associated with the horseshoe kidney (HK). Aberrant vessels, the renal isthmus, and renal ectopia are all unique features of this anomaly that make the laparoscopic approach a challenge. We report our experience with this technique in 2 patients. METHODS Two patients with an HK were evaluated for recurrent urinary tract infection. In both cases, the nonfunctioning renal moiety was demonstrated by renal scan. A transperitoneal laparoscopic heminephrectomy was performed. The Endostapler device was used to divide the renal isthmus. RESULTS The operative time was less than 3 hours. Blood loss was negligible. No intraoperative complications occurred. The hospital stay was 48 hours. Postoperative discomfort was minimal. CONCLUSION Laparoscopic heminephrectomy is a safe and feasible approach for benign diseases of the HK. The Endostapler is a useful adjunct in the division of the renal isthmus.