INTRODUCTION
The transverse hypogastric Pfannenstiel incision is one of the possibilities for specimen extraction after a laparoscopic nephrectomy. Its advantages include low morbidity and a favorable cosmetic result.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Retrospective and comparative observational study of 105 patients who underwent nephrectomy in our center. Group 1: renal extraction through Pfannenstiel incision. Group 2: renal extraction using other techniques. The presence of infection, incisional hernia and pain (visual analogue scale-VAS) was evaluated in each patient. Additionally, a telephone survey was conducted on the cosmetic results.
RESULTS
105 patients: 68 group 1 (Pfannenstiel incision) and 37 group 2 (other incisions).
The median size of the nephrectomy specimen was 14 cm (group 1 15cm, group 2 13cm).
27 patients (26%) had pain in the area of the hypogastric incision in the early postoperative period with a median on the VAS scale of 4 (16 group 1 vs 11 group 2).
3 patients (2.8%) presented incisional hernia (0 group 1 vs 3 group 2).
3 patients presented wound infection (0 group 1 vs 3 group 2).
70% of the patients in group 1 (48/68) answered the survey on cosmetic satisfaction: 93% were satisfied with the scar and its location. 49% of the patients in group 2 (18/37) answered the survey on cosmetic satisfaction: 83% were satisfied with the scar and its location.
CONCLUSIONS
The Pfannenstiel incision is a valid and safe alternative for laparoscopic nephrectomy specimen extraction with a favorable complication and cosmetic profile compared to other common techniques for nephrectomy specimen extraction.
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