[Laparoscopic lymphadenectomy for lymphatic staging in prostatic cancer: preliminary experience]

The current diagnostic methods, primarily transrectal ultrasound scanning (supported with ultrasound-directed biopsy), CAT and tumoral markers, allow an earlier and more reliable diagnosis of prostatic neoplasias. The chances of diagnosing these tumours while in low stages (A, B, and C without affecting the seminal vesicle) imply a higher indication for radical surgery (prostatectomy) with an intention to cure. However, the prognosis and therefore the indication will be determined by the presence of regional nodular affectation. Imaging diagnostic methods (lymphography, CAR, NMR) have been proven incapable of providing an acceptable degree of diagnostic safety, therefore staging lymphadenectomy continues to be mandatory. Laparoscopic lymphadenectomy allows to meet requirements of surgical radicality comparable to those of traditional open surgery while showing an irrefutable decrease of morbidity and being more convenient for the patient. Our early experience with this surgical technique of staging in prostatic neoplastic pathology is illustrated.