Prolonged lymphatic leak after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection: a case report

Abstract

IntroductionPersistent lymphatic drainage following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testicular tumor is an uncommon complication.Case presentationWe describe a 21-year old man of Caucasian origin who had metastatic non-seminomatous germ cell tumor of the testis, and underwent retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, nephrectomy and partial inferior vena cava excision for a residual mass. The patient subsequently developed persistent lymphatic drainage causing foot drop that eventually responded to conservative medical and surgical measures.ConclusionThis postoperative condition usually responds well to conservative measures but has the potential for serious morbidity if it is not managed appropriately.

Post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in the management of metastatic testis cancer: the 16-year experience in an Irish setting

“…This patient had undergone iliac artery resection because of densely adherent tumour necessitating an aorto-iliac graft during RPLND. One patient with chylous ascites and pleural effusions required prolonged ventilation for 10 days, a chest drain (removed early) and peritoneal drain (removed after 12 weeks) [13]. Minor complications included atelectasis, respiratory tract infection, minor wound infection and prolonged ileus.…”

Successful management of chylous ascite after removal of residual mass in non-seminomatous germ cell tumours following chemotherapy: A single-center experience and review of the literature

“…The three major urological procedures identified in the literature as causing refractory chylous fluid leaks are nephrectomy, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) and excision of the inferior vena cava [ 3 ].…”