Duodenal stenosis due to small lymphocele after para-aortic lymphadenectomy: A case report and review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE: We present an unusual case of a small para-aortic lymphocele causing duodenal stenosis after lymphadenectomy and discuss its treatment. CASE REPORT: Our case involved a 57-year-old woman with endometrial cancer who underwent surgery, including para-aortic lymphadenectomy. On postoperative day 7, projectile vomiting occurred. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a small lymphocele in the dorsal duodenum, causing duodenal stenosis. Transpercutaneous and transduodenal puncture or surgical procedures were difficult because the cyst was too small. Per endoscopic and gastrointestinal series findings on the postoperative day 22, a liquid diet was presumed to be able to pass through the narrow portion. Hence, concentrated liquid food was administered orally; no vomiting occurred. At 2 months postoperatively, CT showed no lymphocele. CONCLUSION: Conservative treatment involving waiting for spontaneous lymphocele reduction with a concentrated fluid diet may be considered in such cases if fluid passage is confirmed with endoscopy and gastrointestinal series.

Intranodal embolization for lymphocele after revascularization procedure in the groin.

Early postoperative wound complications in revascularization procedures in the groin very often include complications associated with injury to the lymphatic system such as lymphocele and lymphorrhea with subsequent local infectious complications and the risk of infection of prosthetic grafts. We present a case report of successful treatment of postoperative lymphocele with subsequent lymphatic fistula and dehiscence of the surgical wound by intranodal embolization of the injured lymph node with Histoacryl tissue glue.

Primary Lymphovenous Anastomosis After Extended Soft Tissue Resection in the Medial Thigh for Reduction of Lymphocele and Lymphedema.

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative chronic lymphocele and lymphedema represent severe burdens for soft tissue sarcoma patients who are already physically handicapped after an extensive surgery and a long recovery time. Incidences are high in the upper medial thigh. We have shifted our focus to lymphedema and lymphocele risk reduction with immediate lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) after sarcoma resection. METHODS: We performed immediate lymphatic reconstruction in 11 patients after soft tissue sarcoma resection in the upper medial thigh. The postoperative course was followed up closely, and postoperative occurrence of lymphocele and lymphedema was clinically assessed. A literature search outlining the latest clinical data, current treatment strategy landscape, and their application into clinical practice was added to the investigation. RESULTS: A total of 19 LVA and 2 lympho-lymphatic anastomoses were performed in 11 patients immediately after tumor resection in an end-to-end manner. We found a postoperative lymphedema rate of 36% and a postoperative lymphocele rate of 27%. Mean follow-up time was 17 months. Average tumor volume was 749 cc. Our literature search yielded 27 articles reporting on immediate LVA in cancer patients. Incidences of secondary lymphedema after LVA for lymphedema prevention vary between 0% and 31.1%. Lymphocele prevention with LVA is poorly studied in sarcoma patients. CONCLUSION: Immediate lymphatic reconstruction improved the overall postoperative course of our patients. The current literature does not serve with high-quality studies about primary LVA preventing lymphedema and lymphocele formation. We conclude that this technique should be seen as an additional concept to achieve overall better postoperative outcomes in these challenging surgical settings. We strongly recommend to either anastomose or ligate severed lymphatics under the microscope primarily after sarcoma resection in the upper medial thigh area.

Step-by-step Peritoneal Bladder Flap Bunching (PBFB) technique: an innovative approach following lymph node dissection in robotic radical prostatectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) has become a popular surgical approach for localized prostate cancer due to its favorable oncological and functional outcomes, as well as lower morbidity. In cases of intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer, bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy (PLND) is recommended as an adjunct to RARP (1-3). Despite its benefits, PLND can lead to surgical complications, with postoperative lymphocele formation being the most common. Most postoperative lymphoceles are clinically insignificant with variable incidence, reaching up to 60% of cases 4. However, a small percentage of patients 2-8% may experience symptomatic lymphoceles (SL), which can cause significant morbidity (4, 5). SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: We perform our RARP technique with our standard approach in all patients (6). After vesicourethral anastomosis a modified PF created to prevent symptomatic lymphocele. We start by suturing the peritoneal fold on the right side, medially to the vas deferens, followed by a similar stitch on the left side to approximate the edges in the midline. A running suture bunches the bladder peritoneum from both sides, passing through the pubic bone periosteum to secure it in place (7). This approach keeps the lateral pelvic gutters open for lymphatic drainage, while allowing fluid drainage from the true pelvis into the abdomen. A pelvic ultrasound was done for all patients at 6 weeks post operative, and additional clinical follow-up was carried out at 3 months following surgery. CONSIDERATIONS: We have demonstrated a modified technique of peritoneal flap (PBFB) with an initial decrease in postoperative symptomatic lymphoceles, the technique is feasible, safe, does not add significant morbidity, and does not require a learning curve.

Comparison of peritoneal interposition flaps and sealants for prevention of lymphocele after robotic radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection: a systematic review, meta-analysis, Bayesian network meta-analysis, and meta-regression.

Lymphocele is one of the most common complications after radical prostatectomy. Multiple authors have proposed the use of vessel sealants or peritoneal interposition techniques as preventive interventions. This study aimed to aggregate and analyze the available literature on different interventions which seek to prevent lymphocele through a Bayesian Network. A systematic review was performed to identify prospective studies evaluating strategies for lymphocele prevention after robot assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy + pelvic lymph node dissection. Data was inputted into Review Manager 5.4 for pairwise meta-analysis. Data was then used to build a network in R Studio. These networks were used to model 200,000 Markov Chains via MonteCarlo sampling. The results are expressed as odds ratios (OR) with 95% credible intervals (CrI). Meta-regression was used to determine coefficient of change and adjust for pelvic lymph node dissection extent. Ten studies providing data from 2211 patients were included. 1097 patients received an intervention and 1114 patients served as controls. Interposition with fenestration had the lowest risk of developing a lymphocele (OR 0.14 [0.04, 0.50], p = 0.003). All interventions, except sealants or patches, had significant decreased odds of lymphocele rates. Meta-analysis of all the included studies showed a decreased risk of developing a lymphocele (OR 0.42 [0.33, 0.53], p < 0.00001) for the intervention group. Perivesical fixation and interposition with fenestration appear to be effective interventions for reducing the overall incidence of lymphocele.

Sclerotherapy of the Post renal Transplant Lymphoceles: A Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the effectiveness of sclerotherapy in treating lymphoceles after kidney transplantation, focusing on factors such as recurrence rates and procedural success. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective studies using sclerotherapy as the only form of treatment for postrenal transplant lymphoceles were included. All studies used percutaneous transcatheter sclerotherapy as treatment, and the success rate of the intervention was recorded. Sixty-one references were obtained by manually searching the MEDLINE (n = 20), Embase (n = 41), and Cochrane Library databases (n = 0) for retrospective research studies that included the keywords "sclerotherapy post renal transplant lymphoceles." After removing 3 duplicates, 50 of the remaining articles were excluded after the screening, and the remaining studies were extracted for demographic data and our primary outcome of the success rate of sclerotherapy. RESULTS: A descriptive analysis of the outcomes and complication rates associated with sclerotherapy interventions for lymphoceles is provided. A high degree of variation across the different studies was observed. According to the Kruskal-Wallis test, there was no correlation between the sclerosant used and the sclerotherapy complication rate (P = .472) or the success rate (P = .591). There was also no correlation between the gender of the patient and the success rate; however, there was a significant difference in the complication rate by gender (P < .005). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, different sclerosant products have been used for therapy with no consensus on the most efficacious product because the success rate has been variable. In addition, the gender of the patient may influence the complication rates associated with sclerotherapy for lymphoceles in patients post-kidney transplant.

How Might the Number of Lymph Nodes Removed during RARP Impact the Postoperative Outcomes?

INTRODUCTION: Symptomatic lymphocele remains a relevant complication after pelvic tumor surgery. This study aims to investigate how the number of lymph nodes removed may influence postoperative outcomes and if it increases the probability of detecting lymph node metastasis. METHODS: The study included 500 patients who underwent RARP including lymphadenectomy performed by a single surgeon. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1 consisted of 308 patients with 20 or fewer lymph nodes removed (mean 15), while group 2 had 192 patients with over 20 nodes removed (mean 27). Perioperative data were analyzed, and postoperative outcomes were compared between groups. RESULTS: Overall, lymph node metastasis was detected in 17.8% of men. In detail, out of 19.6 lymph nodes removed, an average of 3.14 lymph nodes per patient showed metastasis, with a slightly higher incidence of 19.7% in group 2 compared to 16.5% in group 1, though not statistically significant (p = 0.175). The number of lymph node metastases was significantly higher in group 2 patients (3.47) versus group 1 (2.37) (p = 0.048). All complications except symptomatic lymphoceles (p = 0.004) were not significantly different between groups. Univariate linear regression analysis revealed no correlation between the number of removed lymph nodes and symptomatic lymphocele. However, it did correlate with catheter days and readmissions. CONCLUSION: A correlation may exist between the number of lymph nodes removed during RARP and an increased incidence of complications, particularly symptomatic lymphocele. A more extensive PLND may result in prolonged catheter days and increased readmissions. With the increased extent of pelvic lymphadenectomy, the probability of detecting lymphogenic metastasis rises. The diagnostic value of PLND is well established. Further randomized trials are needed to weigh its necessity and extent.

The Association of a Peritoneal Interposition Flap With Lymphocele Formation After Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection During Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association of a peritoneal interposition flap (PIF) with lymphocele formation following robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) with pelvic lymph node dissection. METHODS: We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through August 30, 2023, to identify randomized and nonrandomized studies comparing RALP with pelvic lymph node dissection with and without PIF. A random effects meta-analysis was then performed to evaluate the associations of PIF with 90-day postoperative outcomes. RESULTS: Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and four observational studies, including a total of 2941 patients, were included. The use of PIF was associated with a reduced risk of 90-day symptomatic lymphocele formation after RALP when examining only RCTs (pooled odds ratios [OR] 0.44, 95% CI 0.28-0.69; I2 =3%) and both RCTs and observational studies (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.22-0.56; I2 =17%). Similarly, use of PIF was associated with a reduced risk of 90-day any lymphocele formation (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.28-0.56, I2 =39%). There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications between the two groups (OR 0.89; 95% CI 0.69-1.14; I2 =20%). CONCLUSION: Use of the PIF is associated with an approximately 50% reduced risk of symptomatic and any lymphocele formation within 90-days of surgery, and it is not associated with an increase in postoperative complications.

Lymphocele Outcomes After Renal Transplantations Performed by an Experienced Surgeon: Is Meticulously Performed Surgery and Experience Adequate to Prevent Lymphocele?

BACKGROUND The purpose of the present study was to analyze the rate of lymphoceles in kidney transplant operations meticulously performed by the same senior surgeon. MATERIAL AND METHODS The present study included 315 patients who were operated on in our organ transplantation center and followed up in the polyclinic after July 2013. The patients were retrospectively divided into 2 groups: patients with and without lymphocele. Symptomatic lymphocele (SL) has been defined as symptomatic fluid collection around the graft that necessitates an intervention for the graft or patient. RESULTS Lymphocele was observed in 82 (26%) patients. An intervention was needed in 16 (5.1%) of these cases. Demographic data such as age and sex of both groups were similar. Lymphocele cases were mostly asymptomatic, with a size <6 cm (75.6%). However, intervention was needed in 16 (75%) of the patients with a size ≥6 cm that were symptomatic. The length of time on dialysis in the pretansplant period was shorter in the group that developed lymphocele, and a lower rate of graft loss was observed in these patients. No statistically significant difference was found between the 2 groups in terms of rejection rates, serum albumin/globulin levels, and development of de novo DSA. CONCLUSIONS The risk factors reported in the literature related with lymphocele formation were not found to be statistically significant in our study. Complications, except lymphocele, were observed less frequently, but lymphocele formation was encountered in our patients despite meticulous surgery.

Epidemiology of and Risk Factors in Postoperative Complications from Robotically Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy in Contemporary National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Data.

Introduction: For localized clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa), robotically assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) is the gold standard surgical treatment. Despite low overall complication rate, continued quality assurance (QA) efforts to minimize complications of RALP are important, particularly given movement toward same-day discharge. In 2019, National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) began collecting RALP-specific data. In this study, we assessed pre- and perioperative factors associated with postoperative complications for RALP to further QA efforts. Materials and Methods: Surgical records of csPCa patients who underwent RALP were retrieved from the 2019 to 2021 NSQIP database, including new RALP-specific data. Multivariate logistic regression evaluated the association between risk factors and outcomes specific to RALP and pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). Input variables included American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, age, operative time, and body mass index (BMI). Variables from the extended dataset with PLND information included number of nodes evaluated, perioperative antibiotics, postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis, history of prior pelvic surgery, and history of prior radiotherapy (RT). Outcomes of interest were any surgical complication, infection, pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, acute kidney injury, pneumonia, lymphocele, and urinary/anastomotic leak (UAL). Results: A total of 11,811 patients were included with 6.1% experiencing any complication. Prior RT, prior pelvic surgery, older age, higher BMI, lack of perioperative antibiotic therapy, longer operative time, PLND, and number of lymph nodes dissected were associated with higher risk of postoperative complications. Regarding procedure-specific complications, there were increased odds of UAL with prior RT, prior pelvic surgery, longer operative time, and higher BMI. Odds of developing lymphocele increased with prior pelvic surgery, performance of PLND, and increased number of nodes evaluated. Conclusion: In contemporary NSQIP data, RALP is associated with low complication rates; however, these rates have increased compared with historical studies. Attention to and counseling regarding risk factors for peri- and postoperative complications are important to set expectations and minimize risk of unplanned return to a health care setting after discharge.

Symptomatic Lymphocele After Robot-Assisted Pelvic Lymphadenectomy as Part of the Primary Surgical Treatment for Cervical and Endometrial Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is part of the primary treatment for early-stage cervical cancer and high-intermediate risk or high-risk endometrial cancer. Pelvic lymphocele is a postoperative complication of PLND, and when symptomatic, lymphoceles necessitate treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors of symptomatic lymphocele after robot-assisted laparoscopic PLND in cervical and endometrial cancer. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTING: Single-center academic hospital. PATIENTS: Two hundred and fifty-eight patients with cervical cancer and 129 patients with endometrial cancer. INTERVENTIONS: Pelvic lymphadenectomy by robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The authors retrospectively included all patients with early-stage cervical cancer and high-intermediate risk or high-risk endometrial cancer who underwent pelvic lymphadenectomy by robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery between 2008 and 2022. Medical records were reviewed for the occurrence of a symptomatic lymphocele. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for developing a symptomatic lymphocele. In total, 387 patients, 258 with cervical cancer and 129 with endometrial cancer, were included in the study. The overall incidence of symptomatic lymphoceles was 9.6% with a median follow-up of 47 months [interquartile range 23-61]. For the entire cohort, smoking was the only significant risk factor for symptomatic lymphoceles identified in univariate (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.19-5.11) and multivariate analysis (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.16-5.07). For cervical cancer, body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00-1.17) and prior abdominal surgery (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.22-6.17) were also identified as significant independent risk factors. For endometrial cancer, age was identified as a significant independent risk factor (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.83-0.97). CONCLUSION: This single-center cohort study demonstrated an incidence of almost 10% of symptomatic lymphoceles after robot-assisted laparoscopic PLND for cervical cancer and endometrial cancer, with a higher risk observed among patients who smoke at the time of diagnosis. Furthermore, risk factors differ between the 2 populations, necessitating further studies to establish risk models.

Prophylactic Sclerotherapy for Lymphatic Complications After Living Donor Renal Transplant: A Single-Center Experience.

OBJECTIVES: Lymphocele formation after kidney transplant is a common complication that causes significant morbidity. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of intraoperative prophylactic povidone-iodine sclerotherapy through the closed suction drain to prevent lymphocele after kidney transplant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective comparative single-institution study, we compared patients who underwent intraoperative prophylactic povidone-iodine sclerotherapy through the closed suction drain (group A) with patients who did not receive sclerotherapy (group B). Patients were treated between September 2017 and July 2023. Atthe end of the kidney transplant surgery, after the closure of the external oblique muscle layer and before skin closure, 10 mL of 10% povidone-iodine in 40 mL of normal saline were instilled via the closed suction drain and dwelled in the cavity for 30 minutes. RESULTS: During the study period, 300 living-related donor kidney transplants were performed. Prophylactic povidone-iodine sclerotherapy was performed in 150 patients (50%).We noted a significantly lower incidence of lymphorrhea and lymphocele in group A. On postoperative days 1 and 5, we noted a significant reduction in drain output in group A (P < .001). One patient in group A and 5 patients in group B required ultrasonography-guideddrainage andpovidone-iodine sclerotherapy. No sclerotherapy-related complications were reported after a median follow-up of 16 months (range, 3-29 months). CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative prophylactic povidoneiodine sclerotherapy appears to be an easy, safe, and effective procedure for preventing lymphatic complications after living donor kidney transplant.

Peritoneal Flap for Lymphocele Prophylaxis Following Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy with Lymph Node Dissection: The Randomised Controlled Phase 3 PELYCAN Trial.

BACKGROUND: Symptomatic lymphoceles (SLCs) after transperitoneal robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) are common. Evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the impact of peritoneal flaps (PFs) on lymphocele (LC) reduction is inconclusive. OBJECTIVE: To show that addition of PFs leads to a reduction of postoperative SLCs. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: An investigator-initiated, prospective, parallel, double-blinded, adaptive, phase 3 RCT was conducted. Recruitment took place from September 2019 until December 2021; 6-month written survey-based follow-up was recorded. Stratification was carried out according to potential LC risk factors (extended PLND, diabetes mellitus, and anticoagulation) and surgeons; 1:1 block randomisation was used. Surgeons were informed about allocation after completion of the last surgical step. INTERVENTION: To create PFs, the ventral peritoneum was incised bilaterally and fixated to the pelvic floor. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The primary endpoint was SLCs. Secondary endpoints included asymptomatic lymphoceles (ALCs), perioperative parameters, and postoperative complications. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: In total, 860 men were screened and 551 randomised. Significant reductions of SLCs (from 9.1% to 3.7%, p = 0.005) and ALCs (27.2% to 10.3%, p < 0.001) over the follow-up period of 6 mo were observed in the intention-to-treat analysis. Operating time was 11 min longer (p < 0.001) in the intervention group; no significant differences in amount (80 vs 103, p = 0.879) and severity (p = 0.182) of postoperative complications (excluding LCs) were observed. The survey-based follow-up might be a limitation. CONCLUSIONS: This is the largest RCT evaluating PF creation for LC prevention and met its primary endpoint, the reduction of SLCs. The results were consistent among all subgroup analyses including ALCs. Owing to the subsequent reduction of burden for patients and the healthcare system, establishing PFs should become the new standard of care. PATIENT SUMMARY: A new technique-creation of bilateral peritoneal flaps-was added to the standard procedure of robotic-assisted prostatectomy for lymph node removal. It was safe and decreased lymphocele development, a common postoperative complication and morbidity. Hence, it should become a standard procedure.

Impact of Peritoneal Interposition Flap on Patients Undergoing Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy and Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

CONTEXT: Symptomatic lymphocele (sLC) occurs at a frequency of 2-10% after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). Construction of bilateral peritoneal interposition flaps (PIFs) subsequent to completion of RARP + PLND has been introduced to reduce the risk of lymphocele, and was initially evaluated on the basis of retrospective studies. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the impact of PIF on the rate of sLC (primary endpoint) and of overall lymphocele (oLC) and Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3 complications (secondary endpoints) to provide the best available evidence. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Meta-Analyses statement for observational studies in epidemiology, a systematic literature search using the MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EMBASE databases up to February 3, 2023 was performed to identify RCTs. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the revised Cochrane RoB tool for randomized trials. Meta-analysis used random-effect models to examine the impact of PIF on the primary and secondary endpoints. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Four RCTs comparing outcomes for patients undergoing RARP + PLND with or without PIF were identified: PIANOFORTE, PerFix, ProLy, and PLUS. PIF was associated with odds ratios of 0.46 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.23-0.93) for sLC, 0.51 (95% CI 0.38-0.68) for oLC, and 0.41 (95% CI 0.21-0.83) for Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3 complications. Functional impairment resulting from PIF construction was not observed. Heterogeneity was low to moderate, and RoB was low. CONCLUSIONS: PIF should be performed in patients undergoing RARP and simultaneous PLND to prevent or reduce postoperative sLC. PATIENT SUMMARY: A significant proportion of patients undergoing prostate cancer surgery have regional lymph nodes removed. This part of the surgery is associated with a risk of postoperative lymph collections (lymphocele). The risk of lymphocele can be halved via a complication-free surgical modification called a peritoneal interposition flap.

The efficacy of peritoneal flap fixation on symptomatic lymphocele formation following robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic lymphocele is the most common complication after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND), of which symptomatic lymphocele (sLC) ranges up to 10% and is associated with poorer perioperative outcomes. Peritoneal flap fixation (PFF) is a promising intraoperative modification to reduce sLC formation but the clinical evidence failed to reach consistency. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized and nonrandomized comparative studies comparing postoperative sLC occurrence with or without PFF after RARP with PLND were identified through a systematic literature search via MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CENTRAL up to July 2023. Outcome data of sLC occurrence (primary) and major perioperative events (secondary) were extracted. Mean difference and risk ratio with 95% CI were synthesized as appropriate for each outcome to determine the cumulative effect size. RESULTS: Five RCTs and five observatory studies involving 3177 patients were finally included in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. PFF implementation significantly reduced the occurrence of sLC (RR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.24-0.50), and the specific lymphocele-related symptoms, without compromised perioperative outcomes including blood loss, operative time, and major nonlymphocele complications. The strength of the evidence was enhanced by the low risk of bias and low inter-study heterogeneity of the eligible RCTs. CONCLUSION: PFF warrants routine implementation after RARP with PLND to prevent or reduce postoperative sLC formation.

Treatment of Postoperative Neck Dissection Cervical Lymphocele With Percutaneous Bleomycin Sclerotherapy.

Lymphatic leak after lymph node dissection is a rare but well-known surgical complication that is often treated with conservative management and ultimately reoperation. The purpose of this report is to offer an alternative treatment for chyle leak that avoids hospitalization and subsequent surgery. Sclerotherapy has been used to treat lymphatic leaks in the past and has been shown to be safe and effective. This report presents a patient with a known cervical lymphocele who was followed through multiple sclerotherapy appointments until resolution of the lymphocele.

Abdominal lymphocele following multi-level anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) managed with a laparoscopic peritoneal window: case report and review of the literature.

PURPOSE: Lymphocele formation following anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is not common, but it can pose diagnostic and treatment challenges. The purpose of this case is to report for the first time the treatment of a postoperative lymphocele following a multi-level ALIF using a peritoneal window made through a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach. METHODS: Case report. RESULTS: A 74-year-old male with a history of prostatectomy and pelvic radiation underwent a staged L3-S1 ALIF (left paramedian approach) and T10-pelvis posterior instrumented with L1-5 decompression/posterior column osteotomies for degenerative scoliosis and neurogenic claudication. Three weeks after surgery, swelling of the left abdomen and entire left leg was reported. Computed tomography of the abdomen/pelvis demonstrated a large (19.2 × 12.0 × 15.4 cm) retroperitoneal fluid collection with compression of the left ureter and left common iliac vein. Fluid analysis (80% lymphocytes) was consistent with a lymphocele. Percutaneous drainage for 4 days was ineffective at clearing the lymphocele. For more definitive management, the patient underwent an uncomplicated laparoscopic creation of a peritoneal window to allow passive drainage of lymphatic fluid into the abdomen. Three years after surgery, he had no back or leg pain, had achieved spinal union, and had no abdominal swelling or left leg swelling. Advanced imaging also confirmed resolution of the lymphocele. CONCLUSIONS: In this case report, creation of a peritoneal window minimally invasively via a laparoscope allowing passive drainage of lymphatic fluid into the abdomen was safe and effective for management of an abdominal lymphocele following a multi-level ALIF.

Lymphocele Complication After Kidney Transplant: Current Literature Review and Management Algorithm.

Kidney transplant is the best treatment option for patients with end-stage renal disease. It reduces mortality and improves the quality of life. However, kidney transplant presents medical and surgical complications, and one of the most common is the posttransplant lymphocele. Lymphocele complication has an incidence of up to 20% and presents with variable clinical symptoms, which are directly associated with the size and compression effect on the adjacent organs. There are reported risk factors that favor the appearance of lymphocele. Despite known factors, there are more relevant factors (male sex, deceased donor, and corticosteroids) to carry out a stricter follow-up. The treatment of lymphoceles can vary according to the severity of the symptoms, characteristics of the collection, and the patient's clinical status. Despite the high recurrence, percutaneous intervention is the initial approach in this condition. If percutaneous aspiration, drainage, and sclerotherapy are unsuccessful, then open or laparoscopic fenestration can be performed; laparoscopy is the standard of treatment since it is highly effective and has few adverse effects.