A new technique of laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy optimizes perioperative outcome

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to introduce a new technique for laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy (PAL): an invented retroperitoneum suspension needle combined with modified trocar placement. METHODS: This prospective pilot study randomly categorized women with cervical cancer of stage I–II into 2 groups. The patients in the study group would have laparoscopic PAL with our new technique, while those in the control group with control method. Patients' characteristics and perioperative outcomes were compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: A total of 37 patients were included in our study, of which 20 cases in the study group and 17 cases in the control group. As a result, the mean number of para-aortic lymph nodes (PALNs) resected in the study group was significantly more than that in the control group (p<0.001). The time for resecting PALNs (p<0.001) and total operative time (p<0.001) in the study group decreased significantly than those in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: For laparoscopic PAL, this new technique was effective and practical.