Laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in the management of testis cancer

Abstract

Background: The surgical approach to management of testis cancer has been traditionally through an open incision, but in the last decade, several centers have reported their experience with laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (LRPLND).

Methods: We reviewed the English literature, summarized the outcomes, and included our initial experience with the LRPLND procedure.

Results: Improvements in operative time, complications, and morbidity have occurred as surgical experience has increased. The procedure is more challenging in postchemotherapy patients. Outcomes at our institute are comparable to reported series from other institutions, and LRPLND is our current procedure of choice for RPLND.

Conclusions: LRPLND has been shown to be a safe, effective, minimally invasive procedure in the management of testicular cancer patients who require surgery to address the retroperitoneal lymph nodes.