Case Report: Laparoscopic Removal of 10-cm Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma

Abstract

Liposarcomas are the second most frequent tumors in the retroperitoneal space and classically present as a large mass with minimal symptoms and a high local recurrence rate. The gold standard of treatment remains surgical excision. We describe the first successful removal of a well-differentiated retroperitoneal liposarcoma using a laparoscopic approach. An asymptomatic patient presented a large fatty mass in the retroperitoneal space on CT imaging. A transperitoneal laparoscopic approach was planned. A well-capsulated mass was exposed under Gerota's fascia that was dissected easily and removed completely without complications. Histologic examination revealed a well-differentiated liposarcoma. No recurrence was found at 12 months' followup. Resecting the mass completely remains the most important predictor of local recurrence and overall survival in liposarcoma. Thus, the success of radical surgical treatment is very important. The laparoscopic approach is technically safe and successful in maintaining oncologic principles and avoiding recurrences in retroperitoneal liposarcomas, representing a feasible alternative to open surgery.