Lymph node dissection in the management of renal cell carcinoma

Radical nephrectomy and regional lymphadenectomy have been the cornerstone of therapy for renal cell carcinoma for several decades; however, debate regarding the potential advantages of lymph node dissection for renal cell carcinoma continues. Currently, there are no definitive data indicating a survival advantage to lymphadenectomy, and systematic complete lymph node dissection adds time to the procedure and requires manipulation of the great vessels, which some surgeons may find challenging. This article examines the rationale for lymphadenectomy in the management of renal cell carcinoma and reviews the limited literature on the subject.