Introduction: Both transperitoneal (TP) and retroperitoneal (RP) laparoscopic nephrectomies (NT) have been described for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (APKD), and no conclusive evidence exists about the best approach. We present in this video the step-by-step procedure for both techniques. Perioperative data of a single-institutional case-series are reported. Methods: A retrospective review of the NTs in APKD patients in between June 2020 and April 2022 was conducted. The TP approach requires the positioning of three 12-mm ports and one 5-mm ports, the mobilisation of the colon, the incision of Gerota’s fascia and the development of the psoas plane to identify the renal pedicle. Renal vessels and ureter are clipped by Hem-o-lok ® and divided. The RP approach usually requires the positioning of a first 12-mm trocar at the apex of the XII rib; the RP space is developed using a dedicated balloon; two more 12-mm trocars are placed at the posterior axillary line and in the iliac fossa. The psoas plane allows an early access to the renal pedicle; the renal vessels and the ureter are ligated by Hem-o-lok ® and divided. In both approaches, the puncture and the suction of the major cysts is frequent during dissection; adrenal-sparing approach was feasible in all cases; a modified Gibson incision is made for kidney extraction. Results: Six consecutive patients were enrolled, 3 of whom were treated by TP and 3 by RP-NT. Two patients were on haemodialysis and 2 had already undergone a renal transplantation. Mean age was 49 and 57 years, maximum kidney diameter was 28.25 and 30 cm and mean operative time was 171 and 210 min, respectively for RP and TP. No conversion to open surgery was made. The reason for NT was represented by symptomatic polycystic kidney in 5 cases; surgery was required solely in preparation to kidney transplantation in 1 TP case. No Clavien 3 grade complications or greater were recorded; postoperative sepsis occurred in 2 TP patients, haematoma in 1 TP and 1 RP cases, blood transfusions were required in 2 TP and 1 RP cases, 1 RP patient experienced a deep venous thrombosis. The hospitalization time ranged from 5 to 31 days. No significant worsening of the renal function was observed at discharge. Conclusions: At present, the scarce existing data do not suggest the superiority of an approach over the other one. Both RP and TP approaches for nephrectomy of polycystic kidneys are feasible in experienced hands and the choice must be tailored on patient characteristics and surgeon’s preference. SOURCE OF Funding: None
