Laparoscopic radical cystectomy with urinary diversion

Purpose of review The laparoscopic approach in urology is now an accepted option for kidney, adrenal, and prostate surgery. We review the current experience with laparoscopic radical cystectomy to identify its role in oncological bladder surgery. Recent findings Pure laparoscopic techniques are being employed for the extirpative portion of laparoscopic radical cystectomy at multiple institutions. Various extracorporeal and intracorporeal techniques are evolving for the reconstructive procedures necessary for urinary diversion. Worldwide experience continues to accumulate with over 150 cases already having been performed. Summary With the gradual growth and experience in laparoscopic radical cystectomy, along with continuing refinements in technique, laparoscopic radical cystectomy is now being performed at many centers worldwide. Long-term oncological and functional outcome data are necessary to determine its proper role for patients with bladder cancer.