Retroperitoneal Anatomy: A Guide to Laparoscopic Pelvic Sidewall Dissection

Abstract

Video Objective This educational video reviews the important retroperitoneal anatomy of the pelvic sidewall, including the ureter, the uterine artery as it emanates from the internal iliac artery, and the pararectal and paravesical spaces. Setting Knowledge of retroperitoneal anatomy and the ability to safely explore the pelvic sidewall are essential skills for any gynecologic surgeon. Interventions A simple schematic is shown to demonstrate the anatomic relationship between important retroperitoneal structures. Then, a surgical video is presented to demonstrate the same anatomy in an actual case. Conclusion This video presents the essential retroperitoneal anatomy of the pelvic sidewall in a clear manner, and demonstrates a simple technique for laparoscopically identifying these structures. This educational video reviews the important retroperitoneal anatomy of the pelvic sidewall, including the ureter, the uterine artery as it emanates from the internal iliac artery, and the pararectal and paravesical spaces. Knowledge of retroperitoneal anatomy and the ability to safely explore the pelvic sidewall are essential skills for any gynecologic surgeon. A simple schematic is shown to demonstrate the anatomic relationship between important retroperitoneal structures. Then, a surgical video is presented to demonstrate the same anatomy in an actual case. This video presents the essential retroperitoneal anatomy of the pelvic sidewall in a clear manner, and demonstrates a simple technique for laparoscopically identifying these structures.