Laparoscopy in pediatric urology: challenge and opportunity.

The development of operative laparoscopic techniques in Pediatric Urology has been generally cautious. It is premature to attempt an assessment of the ultimate impact of laparoscopy in pediatric urology, yet several areas of application have significant potential. Diagnostic laparoscopy for cryptorchidism has evolved into operative laparoscopy for intra-abdominal testes, and a significant number of cases have been performed successfully, with the possibility of improved results over open techniques. Laparoscopic nephrectomy and nephroureterectomy have been spring-boards for complex reconstructive renal surgery, although it is clear that new tissue joining technologies are needed. Complex reconstructive surgery is just beginning, yet may have a role in practice. These developments and the current status of laparoscopy in pediatric urology will be reviewed.