EXPERIENCE WITH LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY IN P EDIATRIC UROLOGY

We performed 149 laparoscopic procedures in children between May 1987 and June 1994. Laparoscopy is the most reliable diagnostic tool in chi ldren with cryptorchidism. It also allows simultaneous therapy, such a s laparoscopic orchiectomy or dissection of the testicular vessels in preparation for a Fowler-Stephens procedure. The laparoscopic approach to varicocele repair is simple and has proven to be highly effective. The recurrence rate is low (1,6%). Laparoscopic fenestration of lymph oceles post renal transplantation and excision of sinoidal remnants of the urachus are as efficiously treated with laparoscopy as with open surgery. Laparoscopic nephrectomy and/or nephro-ureterectomy are techn ically more demanding and should only be performed by an experienced t eam. In experienced hands the complication rate is low. At present, ho wever laparoscopy is still expensive due to equipment usage.