Symptomatic Lymphoceles Following Cadaveric Renal Transplantation: Single Center Experience

Abstract

Post-transplantation lymphoceles are uncommon but troublesome problems. This study aimed to describe our experience of diagnosing and managing post-renal transplantation lymphoceles. We performed a retrospective chart-review of 94 consecutive cadaveric renal transplant recipients from March 2005 to August 2012 and identified five cases of lymphoceles occurring after transplantation. The demographic characteristics, comorbidities, occurrence of lymphoceles, and treatment modalities were analyzed. Five (5.3%) patients developed symptomatic postoperative lymphoceles; among them, four were male adults. In 80% of cases, diagnosis was made within 3 months after surgery. None of the lymphoceles were found within the first month after transplantation. Treatment with ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage had a high success rate (80%) and was performed as first line therapy in all cases. One case experienced persistent drainage and required laparoscopic treatment. The mean follow-up period was 26±8 months (range: 15 - 38 months). All patients had improved renal function after the drainage procedure. No procedure-related complication occurred. Lymphoceles following cadaveric renal transplantation often occur in the second or third months after cadaveric renal transplantation, and can usually be managed with percutaneous drainage procedures. Treatment of lymphoceles also improved graft functions in the current study.