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Published on: January 9, 2026
Inferior vena cava anomalies during laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection
Octavio A Castillo1, Rafael Sanchez-Salas, Juan Manuel Alvarez
1Section of Endourology and Laparoscopic Urology, Clínica Santa María, Providencia, Santiago de Chile, Chile. octaviocastillo@vtr.net
Journal of Endourology
|February 9, 2008
Summary
Congenital inferior vena cava (IVC) anomalies are rare but critical findings during laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (LRPLND). Preoperative identification and surgical planning are essential for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Oncology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Congenital anomalies of the inferior vena cava (IVC) are rare but can significantly impact surgical procedures.
- Laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (LRPLND) is a standard oncological procedure for nonseminomatous germ-cell tumors (NSGCT).
Observation:
- This report details the intraoperative identification of congenital IVC anomalies in two patients undergoing LRPLND for NSGCT.
- A left-sided IVC anomaly was encountered in both cases, necessitating intraoperative adaptation of the surgical approach.
Findings:
- Both procedures were completed successfully with no immediate complications and minimal blood loss.
- Patients experienced no tumor recurrence at a median follow-up of 24.5 months.
- Mean operative time was 95 minutes.
Implications:
- Congenital IVC anomalies must be considered in the preoperative assessment and surgical planning for LRPLND.
- Awareness of these anomalies can prevent potential intraoperative complications and ensure successful oncological outcomes.
