Robot-assisted laparoscopic retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma resection with inferior vena cava graft replacement: a case report

The aim of the present study was to report the initial clinical experience of robot-assisted laparoscopic retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma resection with inferior vena cava graft replacement. The patient was a 45-year-old female with abdominal pain. She was referred to our hospital and found to be with a retroperitoneal mass (46 mm × 45 mm). The inferior vena cava and the distal part of left renal vein were invaded by the tumor and compression was obviously seen from magnetic resonance imaging. The serum level of potassium, epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone and renin angiotensin aldosterone system were all in normal ranges before the surgery. The operation was performed via a six port, robot assisted, transperitoneal laparoscopic approach. The tumor was completely resected and adherent part of inferior vena cava (approximately 5 cm) was dissected. Considering severe impairment of the great vessel, we decided to replace excised caval segment with an extended polytetrafluoroethylene graft and undertook the inferior vena cava reconstruction. The patient was discharged 11 days postoperatively with embolus in the graft. Anticoagulants were routinely administrated and the thrombus seemed to be smaller 3 months after operation. Abdominal pain was resolved and pathological examination finally confirmed that the tumor was leiomyosarcoma with negative margins free from tumor. Leiomyosarcoma of inferior vena cava present a technical challenge to surgeons. Comprehensive preparation should be made preoperatively to facilitate tumor resection and vascular management. In specific cases, robotic resection of leiomyosarcoma from great vessels and vascular repairment might be feasible options in experienced hands.