Testicular cancer often spreads in a predictable pattern. Retroperitoneal node are usually the first landing place for the cancer metastasis. These nodes are often situated around the two major vessels of the body, aorta and inferior vena cava (IVC).
Retroperitoneal node dissection (RPLND) is an operation, where the nodes of the retroperitoneum are removed. It can be done as a primary treatment for selected early stage testicular cancer patients or as a secondary treatment for patients with prior chemotherapy who have disease recurrence or residual masses after chemotherapy. RPLND is a risky operation and the patients undergoing this procedure often require a lengthy hospital stay. The main risk of this operation includes: bleeding, infection, lymphatic leakage, slow return of bowel function, problems with ejaculation and prolonged hospital stay. This type of surgery should be performed in tertiary referral centres expertise and high volume experience.
What is Robotic retroperitoneal node dissection (RPLND)?
Robotic surgery has enabled surgeons to perform the same type of surgery without using large incisions. Subsequently patients experience significantly lower pain, blood loss as well as complications and achieve a much faster recovery following surgery. Dr Ahmadi is a high volume robotic cancer surgeon with dedicated fellowship training in robotic surgery. Currently, he has performed the highest volume of robotic-RPLND in Australia. Along with his team at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, he offers robotic RPLND to suitable patients with testicular cancer. If you wish to obtain more information, contact our friendly team for an appointment.