Laparoscopic Live Donor Nephrectomy: An Initial Moroccan Experience

Introduction Laparoscopic nephrectomy is the gold standard for kidney removal in living donors, offering advantages such as reduced pain and quicker recovery. In Morocco, where end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a growing concern, this approach could significantly impact the demand for kidney transplants. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy in the Moroccan healthcare system. Materials and methods Fifteen laparoscopic nephrectomies were analyzed, focusing on donor demographics, procedure details, and outcomes. Key parameters included donor age, BMI, operative time, warm ischemia time, and blood loss. Complications and graft outcomes were also assessed. Results The procedure was safe and effective, even in obese donors. Donors were predominantly female (80%), with an average age of 49.4 years. Obese donors had longer operative times (282 minutes vs. 220 minutes). Left kidney retrieval was preferred (95%). Warm ischemia averaged 6.27 minutes and blood loss was 207 mL. One donor had elevated creatinine postoperatively, while most maintained stable renal function. Eighteen complications, mostly minor, were reported. Conclusion Laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy is a safe and adaptable procedure in Morocco, offering low complication rates and favorable outcomes. It is effective for a diverse donor population, including older and obese individuals, and may help address the country's growing transplant needs.