Laparoscopic celiac plexus ganglioneuroma resection: A video case report

BACKGROUND: Ganglioneuromas are mature, benign neurogenic tumors that arise from neural crest-derived cells. Given the rarity of these tumors and their often close proximity to major vessels, there is a paucity of reports in the literature of minimally invasive resections of ganglioneuromas near the celiac plexus. We report a case of laparoscopic resection of a retroperitoneal ganglioneuroma adhering to the portal vein and celiac axis. CASE SUMMARY: A 27-year-old female was referred to our medical center with a symptomatic retroperitoneal mass. Using high quality preoperative imaging and biopsies, we confirmed the diagnosis of a 4 cm ganglioneuroma abutting the celiac axis, portal vein, and the caudate lobe of the liver. We elected for laparoscopic resection after careful preoperative planning and discussions with the patient. Laparoscopy enhanced visualization of the tumor and its relationships to surrounding vital structures for optimal dissection. Ultrasonic energy devices and adjusting liver retraction to allow for manipulation of the mass facilitated a safe and effective resection in a tight space. There were no operative complications and the patient was discharged home on postoperative day 1 with no residual symptoms upon follow-up. With sufficient experience in laparoscopic surgery and preoperative imaging and diagnostics, a minimally invasive approach for removing this celiac plexus ganglioneuroma was successful. CONCLUSION: In carefully selected patients, laparoscopic ganglioneuroma resection is appropriate, reducing postoperative morbidity, hospital length of stay, and recovery time.