Retroperitoneal schwannomas represent 0.5%-3% of all retroperitoneal tumors. Complete surgical removal is the treatment of choice because it permits a correct histological diagnosis and prevents eventual degeneration. Laparoscopic surgery has been reported as safe and effective by several authors. We present a comprehensive review of the literature regarding the role of laparoscopy in surgical resection of retroperitoneal schwannomas, and we present a case showing the technique (with video). Laparoscopic resection in experienced hands is safe and effective, and guarantees excellent postoperative results in terms of patient recovery.
Keywords: Laparoscopic; retroperitoneal; schwannoma.
© 2015 Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery, Asia Endosurgery Task Force and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.