Extended pelvic lymph node dissection during extraperitoneal laparoscopic or robotic assisted radical prostatectomy

Abstract

Objective: Extraperitoneal access in endoscopic (laparoscopicic or robotic assisted) radical prostatectomy is a standard approach in the management of prostatic cancer with well-established advantages over transperitoneal access. Still, traditionally, extraperitoneal endoscopic radical prostatectomy (EERP) has been associated with an inability to offer an extended pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). The former is due to the fact that in the extraperitoneal space, peritoneal folding covers the majority of common iliac vessels and as a result in extraperitoneal PLND, lymph nodes (LNs) located above the bifurcation of common iliac vessels cannot be dissected. We herein present a simple and easy technique to offer an extended PLND during EERP. Methods: After a conventional extraperitoneal PLND, a peritoneal fenestration cranially to extrernal iliac vessels is performed bilaterally exposing the common iliac vessels. Results: Upon peritoneal fenestration, PLND can be continued in a standard fashion as in transperitoneal approach until the uppermost limit of the extended PLND template which is the ureteral crossing over common iliac vessels. Following LN dissection, both peritoneal fenestrations are left open at both sides, as this approach has been found to decrease the incidence of postoperative lymphocele formation. Conclusions: Peritoneal fenestration over common iliac vessels during extraperitoneal PLND is an easy approach that allows surgeon to reach the uppermost limit of extended PLND template. The latter peritoneal dissection is not time consuming and is expected to decrease the morbidity of the operation reducing the incidence of postoperative lymphocele formation.