Robot-assisted laparoscopic nephropexy for symptomatic nephroptosis in a pediatric patient

Abstract

Nephroptosis, or “floating kidney,” is a rare condition characterized by abnormal downward displacement of the kidney when transitioning from a supine to an upright position. While many cases are asymptomatic, affected individuals may present with intermittent abdominal or flank pain, nausea, vomiting, and other nonspecific symptoms. Given the rarity of this condition in pediatric patients, diagnosis remains challenging and reports describing operative management are limited. Here, we describe the clinical course of a 15-year-old female with symptomatic right-sided nephroptosis and detail our operative approach to robot-assisted laparoscopic nephropexy, which resulted in complete resolution of her symptoms.