Retroperitoneoscopy: the Washington University Medical School experience.

OBJECTIVE

To describe our initial experience with balloon dilatation of the retroperitoneum.

METHODS

In 12 patients undergoing laparoscopic renal surgery, the retroperitoneum was dilated using the technique of balloon dilatation. This technique is described and the operative procedure performed in each patient is outlined. The postoperative recovery data and complications are also presented.

RESULTS

This procedure provided excellent exposure of the anatomic structures within the retroperitoneal space and simplified the surgical dissection by staying out of the abdominal cavity.

CONCLUSIONS

Access to the retroperitoneal space is easily and quickly performed utilizing the technique of balloon dilation and may minimize the risk of injury to peritoneal organs.