Research
Complete and safe resection of challenging retroperitoneal tumors: anticipation of multi-organ and major vascular resection and use of adjunct procedures
1 Divisions of Surgical Oncology, University of California at San Francisco (UCSF), 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
2 Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California at San Francisco (UCSF), 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
3 Current address: Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, Texas 77030 USA
World Journal of Surgical Oncology 2011, 9:143 doi:10.1186/1477-7819-9-143
Published: 4 November 2011Abstract
Background
Retroperitoneal tumors are often massive and can involve adjacent organs and/or vital structures, making them difficult to resect. Completeness of resection is within the surgeon's control and critical for long-term survival, particularly for malignant disease. Few studies directly address strategies for complete and safe resection of challenging retroperitoneal tumors.
Methods
Fifty-six patients representing 63 cases of primary or recurrent retroperitoneal tumor resection between 2004-2009 were identified and a retrospective chart review was performed. Rates of complete resection, use of adjunct procedures, and perioperative complications were recorded.
Results
In 95% of cases, complete resection was achieved. Fifty-eight percent of these cases required en bloc multi-organ resection, and 8% required major vascular resection. Complete resection rates were higher for primary versus recurrent disease. Adjunct procedures (ureteral stents, femoral nerve monitoring, posterior laminotomy, etc.) were used in 54% of cases. Major postoperative complications occurred in 16% of cases, and one patient died (2% mortality).
Conclusions
Complete resection of challenging retroperitoneal tumors is feasible and can be done safely with important pre- and intraoperative considerations in mind.
