Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy assisted by a water-cooled, high-density, monopolar device (TissueLink Floating Ball).
Methods: Transperitoneal laparoscopic partial nephrectomy was performed without vascular control for four renal tumors in 3 patients. A flexible ultrasound probe was used to confirm tumor location and depth. Gerota's fascia was opened distant from the tumor site. Renal fat was dissected from the renal parenchyma except for the fat overlying the tumor. The tumor resection area was marked 1 cm outside the boundaries of the tumor. After application of the TissueLink Floating Ball at the planned surgical margin, the tumor was resected with cold laparoscopic scissors. Bleeding from the vessels of the divided renal parenchyma was controlled with the Floating Ball if necessary. The specimen was sent for frozen section to confirm margin status.
Results: Mean estimated blood loss per tumor was 275 mL. The dissection extended to the collecting system in 2 of 4 cases. In 1 patient, a minor postoperative urine leak resolved spontaneously.
Conclusions: Use of the TissueLink Floating Ball facilitated resection of small renal tumors without renal vascular control. Although further study is necessary, water-cooled, high-density monopolar energy may have a role in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.