[Laparoscopìc pyeloplasty in pediatric patients. Our initial cases and lessons learned].

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the initial experience in our first patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) treated by laparoscopic surgery.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

All laparoscopic Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasties performed from July 2007 to April 2009 were analyzed. Before surgery, patients underwent a renal ultrasound and isotope renogram. A double J catheter was left in place and subsequently removed. Patients were followed up by ultrasound and renography.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients with a median age of 8.6 years were analyzed. Preoperative ultrasound showed a median renal pelvis diameter of 34.5 mm. Median operating time was 235 min, and median hospital stay 5.5 days. Median renal pelvis diameter decreased in all patients (13.5 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopy is an effective procedure for UPJO correction in children, although operating times are still long.