Urolog. pro Praxi, 2010; 11(6): 319-322

Laparoscopic modified retroperitoneal lymph node dissection

MUDr.Marek Schmidt, FEBU, MUDr.Pavel Hanek, MUDr.Štěpán Veselý, Ph.D., MUDr.Pavel Dušek

Urologická klinika UK, 2. lékařské fakulty a Fakultní nemocnice v Motole, Praha

Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) is among the methods used in the treatment of non-seminoma testicular cancers. It

involves a complete or modified removal of the retroperitoneal lymph nodes, the site of the first metastases. Prior to the introduction

of chemotherapy, RPLND was the only treatment method following radical orchiectomy. Particularly due to the challenging nature and

numerous complications of classic open RPLND, adjuvant chemotherapy is the method of choice in non-seminoma testicular cancers.

The introduction of a modified and nerve-sparing technique has reduced the rate of complications; however, open RPLND still remains

a demanding surgical procedure. The laparoscopic technique of lymphadenectomy provides an excellent benefit in terms of intraoperative

morbidity, has a lower rate of intraoperative complications and significantly improves the postoperative course.

Keywords: laparoscopy, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, testicular tumors

Published: December 14, 2010  Show citation