A technique for excision of abdominal and pelvic neuroblastomas.
BACKGROUND
As neuroblastomas usually envelope major vessels, excision poses a significant technical problem.


METHODS
Over a 22-year period, 234 infants and children have undergone attempted surgical excision of abdominal or pelvic neuroblastomas using a consistent surgical approach. This entails a systematic dissection of the involved vessels prior to removal of the tumour.


RESULTS
Macroscopically complete or near complete tumour clearance was achieved in 89% of cases. Three aortic injuries occurred which required repair.


CONCLUSIONS
The described technique is safe and reproducible and allows tumour clearance in the majority of affected children.
Kiely
Edward
E
Department of Paediatric Surgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK. edwardkiely@mac.com
D000008:Abdominal Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D009447:Neuroblastoma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D010386:Pelvic Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed