Benefits of Retroperitoneoscopic Surgery in Pediatric Urology.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this review is to find out the benefits of retroperitoneoscopy for the most common urological diseases in children.

RECENT FINDINGS: The emergence of minimally invasive surgery about 20 years ago revolutionized pediatric urology. In this context, laparoscopy and later retroperitoneoscopy were developed and applied to a wide spectrum of urological diseases. Both approaches have since presented benefits and disadvantages that have been documented in various series. The main indications of retroperitoneoscopy are presented, from the classical ablative surgery, like total or partial nephrectomy, to more advanced reconstructive surgery. The success rate is similar to open surgery. However, few comparative studies have been conducted. According to the most recent findings, retroperitoneoscopic surgery in children is feasible and safe if performed by well-trained surgeons. A pediatric urologist would favor the retroperitoneoscopic access to reach the upper urinary tract and the kidney because this is the "natural" way to treat the most common urological pediatric diseases.