Retroperitoneoscopic resection of retroperitoneal nonadrenal ganglioneuromas: our technique and clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE To report our experience of retroperitoneoscopic technique in semi-lateral decubitus position for the retroperitoneal nonadrenal ganglioneuromas in 18 patients, and to evaluate its clinical outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS From January 2012 to May 2016, 18 patients with retroperitoneal nonadrenal ganglioneuromas underwent retroperitoneoscopic resection. With the patients in semi-lateral decubitus position, a 4-port retroperitoneal approach was used. Data were collected on the tumor size, tumor location, perioperative outcomes, pathology, and lastknown disease status. We reviewed the operative videos to identify surgical tips and tricks. RESULTS All procedures were carried out successfully without converting to open surgery. The tumors had an average size of 5.2cm. The mean operative time was 86.5 min, with a mean estimated blood loss of 85.4mL. There were three patients suffering from intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, all patients achieved an uneventful recovery; the mean postoperative hospital stay was 5.5 days. The postoperative pathology revealed to be retroperitoneal ganglioneuromas. With a mean follow-up of 39.5 months, all patients were recurrence free. The review of the operative videos revealed several tips and tricks, including keeping peritoneum and posterior Gerota fascia intact to provide a favorable operative exposure of tumors, and placing the harmonic scalpel through different ports during tumor dissection. CONCLUSIONS With the patient in semi-lateral decubitus position and a 4-port retroperitoneal approach, retroperitoneoscopic resection of retroperitoneal nonadrenal ganglioneuroma is a feasible, effective, and safe procedure. This approach has distinct advantages including direct access to the tumor, optimal exposure of tumor and less intraperitoneal interference.