To report our technique using a modified muscle-sparing Gibson incision for hand-assisted retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy (HARN) and open bladder cuff excision.

Thirty-four patients with upper tract transitional cell carcinoma received HARN and open bladder cuff excision using the modified muscle-sparing Gibson incision—an approach through a window behind the rectus abdominis muscle with the patient in a supine position with the legs extended and abducted at 45-60° with the surgeon standing between the legs of the patient. The window behind the rectus muscle was identified with ease. HARN and open bladder cuff excision were performed uneventfully using this incision. Mean estimated blood loss was 119 mL. Mean operation time was 139 minutes. Morphine was required for pain relief for 1-3 days (mean 16.5 mg). Mean time to oral intake was 1.5 days and to ambulation was 2.1 days. No lower abdominal bulge was found during a 15.4-month follow-up.

This modified muscle-sparing Gibson incision for retroperitoneal hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy has the benefit of easier retroperitoneal approach of the Gibson incision. Iliohypogastric nerves can be spared under direct vision. By merely retracting and not incising or splitting the rectus abdominis muscle, this incision may decrease wound-related morbidity. This window could be an important portal for hand-assisted laparoscopic surgeries.