2011 Volume 24 Issue 1 Pages 83-87
Objective：To describe our initial experience with retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy utilizing a GelPort as the main access platform together with a muscle-splitting approach.
Patients and methods：Between March and August 2009, we performed 8 retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomies utilizing a GelPort. A transverse incision was made along the skin fold, and the flank abdominal muscles were split without cutting. We used standard straight instruments throughout the dissection process.
Results：The median operative duration and median estimated blood loss were 215 min（range 140-380 min）and 65 ml（range 20-280 ml）, respectively. All cases were completed without conversion or serious complications. Complete convalescence took a mean of 24.8 +/-6.5 days. Postoperative follow-up at 1 month showed good cosmetic appearance of wounds as well as high patient satisfaction.
Conclusion：Retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy utilizing a GelPort together with a muscle-splitting approach is technically feasible. The required convalescence period is short, and excellent cosmesis is achievable.
