Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy has gained in popularity as an accepted treatment modality for localized renal cell carcinoma at many centers worldwide. Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy may be performed via a transperitoneal or retroperitoneal approach. Mostly, the transperitoneal approach is used. Current indications for laparoscopic radical nephrectomy include patients with T(1)-T(3a)N(0)M(0) renal tumors. Herein, transperitoneal as well as retroperitoneal laparoscopic approaches are described. Surgical outcomes and complications from published series are reviewed with comparison to open surgery. Special related concerns as oncologic principles, organ retrieval, lymphadenectomy, and concomitant adrenalectomy are addressed. In conclusion, laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is now established with considerable advantages; decreased postoperative morbidity, decreased analgesic requirements, improved cosmesis, shorter hospital stay and convalescence. Although no long-term follow-up is available, short and intermediate follow-up results confirm the effectiveness of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy.