Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
retroperitoneal lymph node dissection
Surgical removal of lymph nodes behind the abdominal cavity, often for testicular cancer staging.
Full Definition
A surgical procedure involving systematic removal of lymph nodes in the retroperitoneal space, particularly the para-aortic and paracaval regions. This procedure is commonly performed for staging and treatment of testicular cancer, as these lymph nodes are the primary drainage site for testicular tumors. The surgery can be performed via open laparotomy or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, with careful attention to preserving sympathetic nerves to maintain ejaculatory function.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate 'lymph node' compound but not 'retroperitoneal lymph node'.
In Context
- "Nerve-sparing retroperitoneal lymph node dissection was performed to preserve fertility." — Operative report
- "The role of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection in clinical stage I testicular cancer remains controversial." — Clinical review
Also known as
RPLND
retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy
Don't confuse with
inguinal lymph node dissection
pelvic lymph node dissection