Purpose of review: To highlight the latest improvements and modifications aimed at better outcomes in laparoscopic live-donor nephrectomies.
Recent findings: Because the most important consideration is the safety of the donor, there are strict instructions on the usage of vascular instruments. Decreasing the cost of the procedure is also important. Deviceless techniques were introduced. Multiple renal arteries, venous variations and right kidney removal are no longer absolute contraindications; preoperative planning is mandatory. Increasing positive experiences have been reported with novel procedures such as laparoendoscopic single site and transvaginal live-donor nephrectomy.
Summary: Minimally invasive laparoscopic nephrectomy became a prevalent procedure in the field of live kidney donation. The surgical technique must be developed and refined continually in order to secure the integrity and safety of the donor. Recent surgical innovations - represented by laparoendoscopic single site and transvaginal live-donor nephrectomy - successfully result in excellent patient and graft outcomes and better cosmesis.