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Controversial technology: the Chunnel and the laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND)
Michael J Schwartz1, Louis R Kavoussi
1Arthur Smith Institute for Urology, North Shore/Long Island Jewish Health System, New Hyde Park, NY, USA.
BJU International
|September 16, 2010
Summary
Laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (L-RPLND) offers an alternative to open surgery but faces slow adoption. This review examines data and barriers to its wider acceptance in surgical practice.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Oncology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (L-RPLND) emerged in 1992 for staging.
- Advancements in laparoscopy have enabled L-RPLND to replicate open procedures.
- L-RPLND adoption lags behind other laparoscopic surgeries like nephrectomy and prostatectomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing data on L-RPLND.
- To identify factors hindering the universal acceptance of L-RPLND by surgeons.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of available data on L-RPLND.
- Analysis of technical challenges and surgeon acceptance factors.
Main Results:
- L-RPLND has evolved to match open retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) capabilities.
- Limited patient numbers and technical difficulties contribute to slow L-RPLND adoption.
Conclusions:
- Despite technical evolution, L-RPLND faces challenges in widespread surgical acceptance.
- Further discussion and data are needed to overcome barriers to L-RPLND adoption.
