We successfully performed a laparoscopic partial nephrectomy to treat an exophytic renal cell carcinoma, 22 x 15 mm, located in the middle pole. The total operative time was 2 hours and 40 minutes. The operation was accomplished via a complete retroperitoneal route without balloon dissection. The surgical margin was free of tumor. A follow-up sonogram showed good recovery of the parenchyma defect and no evidence of recurrence at 6 months postoperatively.