V03-08: Bilateral robotic nephrectomy using a supine robotic approach without repositioning through 8-18mm incisions in a young female with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis: a video case report
Introduction: Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a histologic pattern that is associated with nephrotic syndrome in children and adults and represents an important cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. The underlying podocytopathy is a consequence of multiple pathways either individually or collectively. The associated heavy proteinuria represents a perioperative risk factor for complications after transplantation. Therefore, a bilateral nephrectomy before transplantation is recommended to stop protein loss by the kidneys. Methods: A 19 years-old woman with therapy resistant FSGS had a persistently low serum albumin level requiring 70g human albumin supplementation each week. A bilateral kidney embolization or surgical removal before listing for a kidney transplantation was required. To improve perioperative outcomes and cosmesis in a young female patient, she was scheduled for a robotic subumbilical access to avoid scar tissue in the upper abdomen. The patient was positioned in a supine position with 30° head down. Four robotic 8mm trocars were placed in a subumbilical line and a 5mm and 12mm assistant trocar were positioned laterally of the medial umbilical ligaments. No repositioning of the patient during the whole case was required. The peritoneum was incised at the level of the ileocecal valve up to the ligament of Treitz. A hammock-like barrier is created by suturing both lateral edges of the parietal peritoneum to the anterior abdominal wall. Subsequently the renal hilus was dissected and the kidney mobilized. The renal vessels were clipped. A 18mm laparoscopic morcellator was introduced after extending the 12mm assistant trocar incision and the kidneys were removed through the morcellator. Results: Blood loss was <50 mL and theatre time 325 minutes. After the surgery the patient had mild bruises on both shoulders because of the long-time period in the Trendelenburg position but resolved without further treatment. Postoperative length of stay was 4 days. After successful removal of both kidneys, the patient was listed for a kidney transplant with priority given her age < 20 years. Conclusions: Bilateral robotic nephrectomy using a subumbilical access and removal of the kidney using a morcellator is technically demanding but feasible. SOURCE OF Funding: None
