Relevant anatomy in minimally invasive surgery

Minimally invasive surgery plays an important role in diagnosing and treating urological diseases in children. Increasing availability, integration, and innovations in techniques and technology continue to expand the role of laparoscopic and robotic surgery in the field. However, performing minimally invasive surgery in the pediatric patient differs from the adult patient, and requires specific considerations beyond a difference in scale. The following chapter highlights important anatomical structures and differences to take into account during laparoscopic and robotic treatment of urological diseases in pediatric patients. An understanding of anatomy is critical for successful minimally invasive access and surgical outcomes. Here we cover the anatomy of the abdominal wall as it is relevant to access, as well as the retroperitoneum.