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Robotic Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND)

Robot-assisted lymph node dissection for testicular cancer staging and treatment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Robotic Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND)?

Robotic retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) is a minimally invasive procedure used in low-stage non-seminomatous germ cell tumours of the testis and in selected residual masses after chemotherapy. The lumbar, paraaortic, paracaval and interaortocaval lymph nodes are removed.

Compared with open RPLND, the robotic technique offers smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, lower bleeding risk and shorter hospital stay; however, oncological adequacy and antegrade ejaculation preservation are critical concerns.

Technical success requires nerve-sparing or modified template dissection. Operative time, learning curve and surgeon experience directly affect outcomes.

Symptoms

Postoperative abdominal pain
Bleeding and haematoma
Lymphocele
Loss of antegrade ejaculation (without nerve sparing)
Vascular injury
Bowel injury
Postoperative ileus

Risk Factors

Stage I non-seminomatous germ cell tumour
Persistent retroperitoneal mass after chemotherapy
Mature teratoma
Patient with high relapse risk
Older patient and severe comorbidity
Marker recurrence after chemotherapy
Body habitus suitable for surgery

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe abdominal pain or fever after surgery
  • Increasing fluid collection or lymphocele
  • Persistent loss of antegrade ejaculation
  • Lower limb swelling and lymphoedema

Treatment Methods

01
Robotic platform (da Vinci) RPLND
02
Modified template (right or left side)
03
Nerve-sparing technique to preserve antegrade ejaculation
04
Adjuvant chemotherapy when indicated
05
Surveillance with tumour markers and imaging
06
Active follow-up with multidisciplinary team
07
Postoperative early ambulation and recovery protocol

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Üroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.