Laparoscopic Resection of Retrocaval Non-functioning Paraganglioma

Abstract

Retroperitoneal paraganglioma is located primarily at the para-aortic area and functioning tumor, however, non-functioning and retrocaval located tumors are rare. Laparoscopic retrocaval paraganglioma resection is technically challenging due to vena cava close relation. A 49-year-old male was referred for a retroperitoneal tumor, detected by FDG-PET scan. He had undergone right thyroidectomy for papillary carcinoma one year ago. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan showed a mass measuring 2 cm in size located behind the inferior vena cava (IVC), which deviate IVC anteriorly. I123-metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan also demonstrated abnormal focal activity. Result of preoperative adrenal function test was normal. A laparoscopic retrocaval tumor excision was performed successfully. The operative time was 160 minutes. The patient’s postoperative recovery was uneventful and he was discharged on the fourth postoperative day. Pathologic examination was consistent with the diagnosis of paraganglioma. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on laparoscopic resection of a retrocaval non-functioning paraganglioma. In conclusion, laparoscopic retrocaval paraganglioma resection is safe and feasible.