Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic heminephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma in horseshoe kidneys has been previously reported, but reports on the retroperitoneal approach remain limited. This paper presents a case demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of this surgical technique. CASE PRESENTATION: A 74-year-old woman was diagnosed with two renal cell carcinomas in the right side of a horseshoe kidney in contrast-enhanced computed tomography. A laparoscopic right heminephrectomy was performed using a retroperitoneal approach. This approach allowed for effective management of the complex vasculature supplying the isthmus. Additionally, the inferior mesenteric artery served as a reliable anatomical landmark, facilitating the identification of the optimal site for isthmus transection. CONCLUSION: Retroperitoneoscopic heminephrectomy is a safe and effective surgical option for renal cell carcinoma in patients with horseshoe kidneys and represents an anatomically rational approach.