A consecutive series of 70 laparoscopic donor nephrectomies demonstrates the safety of this new operation.

Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) has the potential to overcome some of the disincentives to living kidney donation. This study presents the results of a consecutive series of 70 LDN from a single center with an emphasis on postoperative complication rates and donor recovery times. There was no selection bias based on donor body mass index or because of difficult vascular anatomy. All donors received postoperative analgesia using a patient-controlled system and returned to activities and employment at their discretion. There was no donor mortality and no episode of thromboembolic disease. One operation was converted from open to LDN because of renal artery bleeding. Postoperative complications encompassed chest infection (6%), unilateral pulmonary edema (3%), ileus (3%), wound infection (3%), paraesthesia of L1 (4%), testicular pain (3%), persistent wound pain (1.4%), and reoperation for division of adhesions (3%). In conclusion, LDN is a safe procedure with low postoperative morbidity. There were some unexpected complications, but recovery time was short.