Polymer ligating clips in urologic laparoscopic surgery

Abstract

Introducing polymer ligating clips (PLC) or Hem-o-lok clips was a useful alternative to titanium clips in order to perform a safe, efficient and rapid ligation of the vascular structures during laparoscopic and/or conventional surgical procedures. In urologic surgery they are useful during ablative laparoscopic surgery for renal tumor, urothelial tumors, non-functional kidney, bladder tumors and prostate tumors. Polymers' properties depend on the structure of molecules and vary from flexible substances to expandable rigid materials. They have a high resistance to shock, considerable abrasion resistance and precise durability. Polymers can easily take the desired shape, due to different processing modes. They also have the property of resistance to sustainable action of external forces. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PLC used during renal pedicle ligation in retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal tumors, high urothelial tumors and nonfunctional kidney.