Laparoscopic approach for retrorectal tumors—results of a series of 11 cases

Abstract

Background: Retrorectal tumors (RRTs) are infrequent entity. They originate from totipotential cells located in the retrorectal space, which allows the development of an important diversity of tumors with different potential of malignancy. Their anatomical location can make difficult the surgical approach, and in the recent years, minimally invasive surgical approach has been proposed. The aim of the present study is to analyze the results by laparoscopic approach in a series of 11 cases treated in a 19-year period. Methods: From 1998 to 2016, 11 patients (4 males, 7 females, mean age 54 years) with RRT were treated by laparoscopy and retrospectively reviewed. The tumor size ranged from 5 to 11 cm. Results: The mean operative time was 160 minutes. Con-version to open surgery was observed in one case. Among complications were observed two pelvic abscesses and one surgical wound infection. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 7.5 days. Definitive histology included fibrous tumor [1], neurofibroma [2], hamartoma [2], teratoma [1], schwannoma [2], tail gut [1], salivary gland [1], glomus tumor [1]. At a mean follow-up of 48 months, no recurrences were observed. Conclusions: The minimally invasive approach, for the treatment of RRTs in any site, is a satisfactory option.