Simplifying Laparoscopic Nephrectomy for Beginners: Double Window Technique With En Bloc Hilar Stapling

Laparoscopic nephrectomy is a commonly performed procedure. As with any surgical procedure, this too has a significant learning curve. The management of renal hilum is the most critical part of this surgery. It requires a meticulous intra-hilar dissection to identify the renal artery and vein. The kidneys are extremely vascular structures and any injury to these vessels during dissection can result in life-threatening bleeding. Hence, it is obvious that beginners most often face difficulty and apprehension at this step of the laparoscopic nephrectomy. We describe a simple technique of laparoscopic nephrectomy which includes the creation of two windows, one at the lower pole and the second at the upper pole, isolation of the hilum, and en bloc stapling of the renal hilar vessels. This method safeguards against collateral damage to the surrounding structures. It also avoids the need for intra-hilar dissection, hence decreasing the chances of vascular injuries.