Editorial on “Transperitoneal laparoscopic approach for retroperitoneal tumors in adults”

Abstract

In this issue of Revista Argentina de Cirugía, Minetti et al.1 reported the results obtained in a retrospective series with the transperitoneal laparoscopic resection of retroperitoneal tumors. Although the series is not large, it makes evident the great heterogeneity that exists among primary retroperitoneal tumors. Thus, this definition excludes tumors originating in totally or partially retroperitoneal organs (urinary system, adrenal glands, pancreas, or rectum, among others) and the retroperitoneal extension or recurrence of tumors in other locations (lymphomas, germinal tumors, and gastrointestinal tumors with lymph node recurrence). These tumors originate from the vascular, adipose, lymphatic, muscle or neural tissue of the retroperitoneum. Although conventional surgery has been the preferred approach, the use of laparoscopy in several retroperitoneal tumors is increasing.