Robot-assisted laparoscopic resection of large retroperitoneal paraganglioma - initial experience from China.

Abstract

There have been only four cases of robot-assisted laparoscopic resection of retroperitoneal paraganglioma (PGL) in the literature. Here we present our experience on robot-assisted laparoscopic resection of large PGL in four patients to further evaluate its safety and efficacy. From March 2013 to January 2015, four patients with large PGL underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic resection. The tumors were located on the left side and adjacent to the aorta. Patients' demographics, intraoperative and postoperative data were collected, including intraoperative hemodynamic outcomes. In all cases, the PGLs were successfully removed robotically without conversion to open surgery and no intraoperative or postoperative complication occurred. The operative time ranged from 58-113 min, and estimated blood loss ranged from 50-350 mL. There were no significant intraoperative hemodynamic instabilities. The postoperative hospital stay ranged from 4-6 days. With the advantages of robotic system, robot-assisted resection of large retroperitoneal PGL is feasible, safe and efficient. The robotic system has the potential to expand surgical treatment modalities for complex PGL. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.