Laparoscopic and retroperitoneoscopic pediatric urology

Abstract

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in pediatric urology has gained a great interest in the past few years. Early uses of laparoscopy had diagnostic purposes and were related to the management of non-palpable testes (1970s). MIS is now used for more complex and challenging procedures, and it accounts for 10–15 % of all pediatric laparoscopic surgeries performed by urologists. The evolution of pediatric MIS is the result of recent advances in camera technology and instrumentation and of the recognition of its safety. The benefits of laparoscopic surgery include reduced postoperative pain and hospital stay, quicker recovery, reduced complication rate, and excellent cosmetic results. MIS achieves good outcomes and high acceptance between parents despite the fact that there are still controversies.