Open vs laparoscopic donor nephrectomy in renal transplantation

Living-donor nephrectomy has the potential to reduce the shortage of kidneys available for transplantation. The morbidity of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy appears less than that of open donor nephrectomy. Several studies on laparoscopic donor nephrectomy have shown less pain, shorter hospital stay and an earlier return to work. The disadvantages of the laparoscopic procurement of kidneys are longer operating time and higher operative costs, because of the use of disposable instruments. The long-term renal graft function of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy appears to be equal to that of open donor nephrectomy.