OBJECTIVE[corrected] To evaluate the method and technique of single-port laparoscopic radical nephrectomy.

METHODSForm January 2009 to September 2011, 22 patients with renal carcinoma were treated with single-port laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. An incision about 5 cm in length was made through the umbilicus or in the postaxillary line under the 12th rib to establish the peritoneal or retroperitoneal working space. A single-port cannulation was deployed and the operation was carried out using standard and crooked laparoscopic equipment.

RESULTSThe operations were completed successfully in all the 22 cases without conversion to open surgery, but additional trocar was needed in 5 cases. The mean operative time of radical nephrectomy was 150 min (90-240 min). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 7.6 days (3-15 days). The operation left a roughly 5-cm-long scar in all the cases.

CONCLUSIONSingle-port laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is safe and feasible with good cosmetic effect and shows much potential in radical resection of renal carcinoma.