Energy sources for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: critical appraisal

Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) has emerged as a viable alternative for the conventional open nephron-sparing surgery (NSS). So far, an adequate renal parenchymal cutting and hemostasis, as well as caliceal repair remains technically challenging. Numerous investigators have developed techniques using different energy sources to simplify the technically demanding LPN. Herein we review these energy sources, discussing perceived advantages and disadvantages of each technique.