title: Retroperitoneal laparoscopic node dissection for non testicular pathology.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The wide use of imaging tests has increased the number of patients with abdominal and retroperitoneal lymph nodes that should be studied with biopsy. The laparoscopic approach has been used to identify lymph nodes of gynecologic origin and lymphomas among others. We present a series of four patients submitted to laparoscopic resection for non-testicular pathology.
  
  
  METHODS
  From July 2008 until May 2009, four patients have undergone laparoscopic resection, using the same technique and dissection pattern of testicular carcinoma.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All surgeries were completed by laparoscopic approach. All patients achieved a resected lymph node suitable for pathologic diagnosis. Mean operative time was 95 min (40-135). The average estimate bleeding was 60 cc (0-80). There were no perioperative complications.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In patients with abdominal lymph nodes not from testicular origin it is possible to perform laparoscopic resection with low morbidity and excellent effectiveness.
authors.affiliation: Hospital Clinico FUSAT, Rancagua, Chile. gonzomachali@yahoo.es
authors.forename: Gonzalo
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Valero Fuentealba
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods; D008197:Lymph Node Excision / Q000379:methods*; D008206:Lymphatic Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012187:Retroperitoneal Space