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Retroperitoneal laparoscopic management of a lymphocele after abdominal aortic surgery: a case report
Masaru Uchinami1, Koichi Morioka, Koji Doi
1Second Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Japan. uchinami@fmsrsa.fukui-med.ac.jp
Abstract:
A retroperitoneal lymphocele is a rare complication of abdominal aortic surgery. We present a case of 77-year-old man who developed a retroperitoneal lymphocele 14 days after undergoing graft replacement for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Paracentesis showed a white and turbid fluid that was determined to be chyle. Conservative therapy, including percutaneous drainage, fasting, and total parenteral nutrition, was unsuccessful. Retroperitoneal laparoscopic ligation of the leaking lymphatics was performed on postoperative day 33. The postoperative course was satisfactory. The laparoscopic approach to retroperitoneal lymphocele treatment after abdominal aortic repair is a safe and minimally invasive therapeutic method.
Insights
A retroperitoneal lymphocele, a rare complication after abdominal aortic surgery, was successfully treated with laparoscopic surgery. This minimally invasive approach offers a safe and effective option for managing this post-operative complication.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Surgical Complications
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Retroperitoneal lymphocele is a rare complication following abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.
- Early conservative management often fails to resolve the condition.
Observation:
- A 77-year-old male developed a chylous retroperitoneal lymphocele 14 days post-abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.
- Initial conservative treatments including percutaneous drainage and total parenteral nutrition were unsuccessful.
Findings:
- Laparoscopic ligation of leaking lymphatics was performed on postoperative day 33.
- The patient experienced a satisfactory postoperative recovery.
Implications:
- Laparoscopic surgery is a safe and minimally invasive therapeutic option for retroperitoneal lymphocele after abdominal aortic repair.
- This approach may reduce patient morbidity compared to open surgical interventions.
