Partial Nephrectomy Using a Hook-Shaped Harmonic Scalpel^[○!R] for Synchronous Bilateral Wilms' Tumor

Abstract

In children with bilateral Wilms' tumor (BWT) , it is necessary to consider the possibility of partial nephrectomy for preservation of renal function. We report our experience with bilateral partial nephrectomy for BWT using a combination of the hook-shaped Harmonic Scalpel^[○!R] (HS) and the bipolar cautery equipped with a channel for water dripping (BC). A 16-month-old girl with BWT was admitted to our hospital. After 12 weeks of chemotherapy, bilateral partial nephrectomy without renal vascular clamping using HS and BC was performed. During the resection of the tumors, this technique allowed us less bleeding loss and thermal damage under adequate visual control. She remains disease free with preservation of renal function 11 months after surgery. A hook-shaped HS is a useful modality for coagulation and cutting of the renal parenchyma in partial nephrectomy for BWT.