Minimally invasive retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testicular cancer.

ABSTRACT

Testicular cancer is the most common solid organ malignancy in young men between the ages of 15 and 35. Although much of this increase in survival can be attributed to improvements in systemic chemotherapy, surgery retains a critical role in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of testicular cancer. Laparoscopic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection is an effective staging and therapeutic procedure in patients with low-stage testicular cancer. It is an attractive alternative to the open approach, with faster recovery, improved cosmesis, and reduced post-operative morbidity driving its application. In experienced hands, it can be used in postchemotherapy patients.