Laparoscopy, also known as key-hole surgery, refers to operation through small skin incisions using special instruments. Currently many complicated urologic procedures can be performed with laparoscopy. It has the advantages of providing magnified vision of the operative field, less post operative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy
Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is now offered in many dedicated and specialized centers worldwide, including the Hong Kong Urology Clinic, as a treatment option for prostate cancer. The aim is to use laparoscopic instruments and techniques to duplicate the functional results and cancer control as in traditional open surgery.
>Laparoscopic nephrectomy
Laparoscopic kidney surgery can be performed both for cancer or non-cancerous diseases of the kidney. In most cases, the whole of the kidney has to be removed but in selected cases, it is also possible to remove just the tumour part and preserve the rest of the kidney.
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy
The adrenal gland is situated above the kidney and secrets various types of hormone responsible for control of blood pressure, blood sodium, potassium and sugar. Laparoscopic surgery for adrenal tumour has now been accepted as the new standard of treatment.
Laparoscopic pyeloplasty
Ureteropelvic junction obstruction refers to blockage in the ureter leading from the kidney to the bladder. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty enables removal of the narrowed part of the ureter and reconstruction of the connection using minimally invasive techniques.
Laparoscopic varicocele ligation
Varicocele refers to abnormal dilated veins draining the testis. Laparoscopic ligation is an alternative to open operation or radiological intervention.
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair
Keyhole inguinal hernia repair is ideally used for hernia involving both groins but it is also an alternative for hernia on one side. From the inside of the abdominal wall, a mesh of inert sterile material is used to repair the defect. However, we do not encourage laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair for middle age male, for if prostate cancer develops in later life, then laparoscopic radical prostatectomy becomes difficult.