Treatment of lymphocele in renal allograft recipients

Physical activity in elderly kidney transplant patients with multiple renal arteries

INTRODUCTION

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the gold standard for treatment of patients with end- stage-renal disease. To expand the donor reserve, it is necessary to use marginal/suboptimal kidneys.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the short/long-term outcome of 34 KT elderly patients who received allografts with vascular abnormalities (MRA group), in comparison with 34 KT patients who received a kidney with a single renal artery (SRA group) pair-matched by age, length of time on dialysis, comorbidity and donor age.

RESULTS

All participants completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire at KT, and then 4, 8, and 12 weeks after transplantation. Our data indicate that kidney with vascular anatomical variants may be successfully transplanted, since the overall rate of surgical complications was 20.6% in the SRA group and 17.6% in the MRA group and that the 5-year survival rate after KT was 100% in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The data also underline that individualized physical activity programs induced similar excellent results in both groups, improving physical capacities, arterial pressure, lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, quality of life and physical and mental status.

Consensus on definition and severity grading of lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

The incidence of lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation varies considerably in the literature. This is partly because a universally accepted definition has not been established. This study aimed to propose an acceptable definition and severity grading system for lymphatic complications based on their management strategy.

METHODS

Relevant literature published in MEDLINE and Web of Science was searched systematically. A consensus for definition and a severity grading was then sought between 20 high-volume transplant centres.

RESULTS

Lymphorrhoea/lymphocele was defined in 32 of 87 included studies. Sixty-three articles explained how lymphatic complications were managed, but none graded their severity. The proposed definition of lymphorrhoea was leakage of more than 50 ml fluid (not urine, blood or pus) per day from the drain, or the drain site after removal of the drain, for more than 1 week after kidney transplantation. The proposed definition of lymphocele was a fluid collection of any size near to the transplanted kidney, after urinoma, haematoma and abscess have been excluded. Grade A lymphatic complications have a minor and/or non-invasive impact on the clinical management of the patient; grade B complications require non-surgical intervention; and grade C complications require invasive surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

A clear definition and severity grading for lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation was agreed. The proposed definitions should allow better comparisons between studies.

Unusual lymphocele following radical cystectomy with orthotopic neobladder

A 65-year-old male patient, a known case of carcinoma bladder, underwent radical cystectomy with ileal neobladder in 2016. Eleven lymph nodes were identified in the specimen. Histopathology revealed reactive lymphadenitis with sinus histiocytosis. The patient presented with a swelling in the right thigh, associated with dull pain, about 6 months after the procedure. Ultrasound of the right thigh and computed tomography of the region showed an isolated, large, loculated, cystic collection measuring 15 cm × 6 cm with internal septation in the pectineus and adductor longus muscles. Complete aspiration of fluid from the right thigh was done with ultrasound guidance and sent for analysis. The fluid appeared to be lymph, and the lesion turned out to be a lymphocele. There was no recurrence or infection following the aspiration till last follow-up visit. We report this rare lymphocele presentation (in the thigh without any extension from pelvis or groin) after 6 months, following radical cystectomy with neobladder, which was treated by one-time aspiration.

Iatrogenic-related transplant injuries: the role of the interventional radiologist

As advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care continue to improve outcomes, the use of solid organ transplants as a treatment for end-stage organ disease is increasing. With the growing population of transplant patients, there is an increasing need for radiologic diagnosis and minimally invasive procedures for the management of posttransplant complications. Typical complications may be vascular or nonvascular. Vascular complications include arterial stenosis, graft thrombosis, and development of fistulae. Common nonvascular complications consist of leaks, abscess formation, and stricture development. The use of interventional radiology in the management of these problems has led to better graft survival and lower patient morbidity and mortality. An understanding of surgical techniques, postoperative anatomy, radiologic findings, and management options for complications is critical for proficient management of complex transplant cases. This article reviews these factors for kidney, liver, pancreas, islet cell, lung, and small bowel transplants.

Bleomycin sclerotherapy for severe symptomatic and persistent pelvic lymphocele

Background. Pelvic lymphoceles are frequently described as a complication of pelvic lymphadenectomy performed for surgical staging of gynaecologic malignancies. Case Report. A 72-year-old woman presented with severe symptomatic and refractory lymphocele associated with persistent lower limb lymphedema and recurrent erysipelas. After four CT fluoroscopy scan guided percutaneous catheter drainages, the lymphocele complicated with infection finally resolved with two sessions of bleomycin sclerotherapy. Conclusion. Symptomatic persistent lymphoceles require treatment and nowadays the first option is interventional radiologic procedures. Bleomycin is a safe and effective sclerosing agent and therefore should be regarded as a first-line treatment choice.

Chyloretroperitoneum following anterior spinal surgery

Injury to the lymphatic channels is a rare and relatively unknown complication of anterior approaches to the lumbar spine and can cause fluid to build up in the retroperitoneal space, resulting in a lymphocele. If they enlarge sufficiently, these collections of chyle in the abdomen can cause pain and bowel ischemia, and can compress nearby organs. The authors report 4 cases in which anterior approaches to the lumbar spine were complicated by a postoperative retroperitoneal chylous fluid collection. They describe the anatomy of the lymphatic system and pathophysiology of this disease entity, review the sparse literature on this subject, and recommend a treatment algorithm. Maintaining a high index of suspicion for this clinical entity in patients who have recently undergone an anterior approach to the thoracic or lumbar spine is vital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Management of primary symptomatic lymphocele after kidney transplantation: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Management of lymphoceles after kidney transplantation is highly variable. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the different approaches of lymphocele management among kidney transplant recipients.

METHODS

MEDLINE and EMBASE were systematically searched for case studies published between 1954 and 2010. Inclusion criteria were symptomatic lymphoceles developing in recipients of deceased or living donor kidneys with specified intervention and outcome. Primary outcome was the rate of recurrence. Secondary outcomes were the rate of conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery, hospital stay, and complication rates.

RESULTS

Fifty-two retrospective case series with 1113 cases of primary lymphocele were selected for review. No randomized controlled trials or prospective cohort studies were located. Primary treatment modalities included were as follows: aspiration (n=218), sclerotherapy (n=155), drainage (n=219), laparoscopic surgery (n=333), and open surgery (n=188). Of the 218 cases of lymphocele managed with aspiration alone, 141 recurred with a recurrence rate of 59% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 52-67). Among those who received laparoscopic and open surgery, the recurrence rates were 8% (95% CI: 6-12) and 16% (95% CI: 10-24), respectively. The conversion rate from laparoscopic to open surgery was 12% (95% CI: 8-16).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic fenestration of a symptomatic lymphocele is associated with the lowest risk of lymphocele recurrence. However, the evidence base to support a recommendation for laparoscopic surgery as first line treatment is weak and highlights the need for a multicenter prospective cohort study to examine the benefits of incorporating initial simple aspiration into the management of lymphocele after kidney transplantation.

Retroperitoneal lymphocele after lumbar total disc replacement: a case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Retroperitoneal lymphoceles (RPLs) caused by injury to the lymphatics are commonly seen after pelvic lymphadenectomy, renal transplantation, and gynecologic tumor resection surgeries. Degenerative disc disease still remains the major cause of low-back pain. Anterior lumbar spinal procedures, such as anterior lumbar interbody fusion and anterior lumbar arthroplasty, have been increasingly performed for treatment of axial back pain. RPLs, as an approach-related complication, though infrequent, have been reported after anterior lumbar spinal surgery. We report a case of RPL after total disc replacement of the lumbar spine. To our knowledge, there has been no prior report of RPL after total disc replacement managed by percutaneous aspiration only.

METHODS

A 49-year-old woman who underwent total disc replacement at the L4-5 level presented with a postoperative complication of RPL. The imaging findings, clinical course, and treatment are discussed, and a review of literature is presented.

RESULTS

The patient presented with significant abdominal swelling and discomfort at 4 weeks after surgery without any signs or symptoms of infection. Investigations showed an RPL. She was treated by multiple aspirations under ultrasound guidance. At 12 months' follow-up, the patient had no further abdominal symptoms and had gone back to her routine activities and work with significant improvement in back pain.

CONCLUSIONS

RPL is an uncommon complication after anterior lumbar surgery and can be managed effectively if detected and diagnosed early. Although repeated aspiration is associated with high recurrence and infection, it is a safe and minimally invasive procedure to manage RPL.

An overview of renal transplantation: current practice and use of ultrasound

Imaging has played a major role in monitoring the well-being of the renal graft. Ultrasound, in particular, has been extremely helpful for the detection of postoperative complications related to the transplant kidney. From an imaging perspective, the complications of renal transplantation can be categorized into vascular complications, complications related to the collecting systems (urological complications), perinephric fluid collections, and parenchymal complications. Additionally, there are some complications that may occur, secondary to a transplant renal biopsy. To be able to correctly identify the complications associated with renal transplants, one should have a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the transplant procedure and be familiar with the normal or expected findings after a transplant. This article provides an overview of renal transplantation and discusses the use of various imaging modalities in its evaluation. The various complications associated with renal transplant as well as renal biopsy are elaborated in this article with special emphasis on the use of ultrasound.

Evaluation and management of abdominal lymphoceles after anterior lumbar spine surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the management of abdominal lymphoceles after anterior spine surgery and to review the existing literature on lymphoceles after access to the spine.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Abdominal lymphoceles are a rare complication of anterior spinal approaches.

METHODS

Case report and review of the literature.

RESULTS

In this article, we describe the management of 2 lymphoceles. In the first case, immediate operative drainage was required because of worsening abdominal pain and distention. In the second patient, conservative management was attempted, but the lymphocele ultimately persisted and required surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

Lymphoceles are often difficult to distinguish from ureteral injury, cerebrospinal fluid-leaks and hematomas using conventional imaging techniques. Although surgery remains the gold standard for the treatment of lymphoceles, expectant observation may be reasonable in some situations.

Laparoscopic Marsupialization of Postrenal Transplantation Lymphoceles

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Clinically significant post-transplantation lymphoceles are not uncommon. Surgical marsupialization with internal peritoneal drainage is the treatment of choice. We describe the successful laparoscopic formation of a peritoneal window for post-transplantation lymphocele drainage as an effective and minimally invasive procedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between August 1995 and September 2001, 135 consecutive renal transplantations were performed, and 9 patients developed clinically significant lymphoceles. Four of the nine patients were treated by laparoscopic drainage via a peritoneal window. Analysis of predisposing risk factors commonly associated with lymphoceles was performed. The surgical outcome was assessed.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic drainage was successful in all patients. The average operative time was 40 minutes. The mean hospital stay was 1.5 days for patients undergoing laparoscopic drainage versus 5 days for those having open surgical drainage. Accidental division of the right native ureter occurred in one patient, which was identified intraoperatively. None of the patients had developed recurrence of lymphocele after a mean follow-up of 10.7 months (range 6-22) months.

CONCLUSION

In patients with a clinically significant post-transplantation lymphocele of appropriate size and location, laparoscopic drainage is easy, safe, and effective. It decreases hospital stay and hastens convalescence.

Long-Term Outcome of Cadaveric Renal Transplant After Treatment of Symptomatic Lymphocele

PURPOSE

Between January 1993 and December 2002 a total of 1,289 renal transplants were performed at our institution. Symptomatic post-transplant lymphocele presenting as increased creatinine and hydronephrosis of the allograft was recorded at 0.02%. Records of the 27 patients in whom symptomatic lymphocele developed and of those who underwent contralateral kidney transplant (control group) were compared to determine the long-term effects of lymphocele formation on allograft function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 37 procedures for the treatment of lymphocele were performed in 24 patients. Open marsupialization (12) and laparoscopic marsupialization (3) procedures were performed as primary treatments. Two patients underwent repeat open marsupialization. Aspiration and percutaneous catheter drainage were performed as a primary procedure in 7 and 1 cases, respectively. Percutaneous nephrostomy was required in 4 cases before definitive treatment.

RESULTS

The mean time to development of a lymphocele was 121 days (range 35 to 631). Symptomatic lymphocele did not require treatment in 3 patients. Of 19 patients undergoing primary marsupialization, recurrence in 2 necessitated repeat surgery. However, aspiration and percutaneous drainage proved to be definitive in only 2 cases. In total 8 patients required more than 1 procedure. At a mean followup of 63 months (SD 30.3) 21 allografts continued to function with a mean serum creatinine of 152 mumol/l (SD 67.9). In the control group 3 patients experienced graft failure and mean serum creatinine was 154 mumol/l (SD 51.9). Five patients died in the lymphocele group, 2 with functioning grafts compared to 4 deaths in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical marsupialization is the preferred primary treatment for symptomatic lymphocele and is associated with excellent long-term allograft outcome.

Radiologic imaging and percutaneous treatment of pelvic lymphocele

Pelvic lymphocele, also known as lymphocyst, is a cystic structure caused by lymphatic injury usually secondary to pelvic lymphadenectomy and renal transplantation. Lymphoceles can cause morbidity and rarely mortality by compression of adjacent structures and infectious complications. This review discusses etiology and treatment options for pelvic lymphoceles including surgical and percutaneous methods with emphasis on percutaneous techniques particularly in conjunction with sclerotherapy. Percutaneous catheter drainage with sclerotherapy procedure with various sclerosing agents is described in detail. Ethanol, povidone-iodine, tetracycline, doxycycline, bleomycin, talc and fibrin glue can be used as sclerosing agents. Combination of sclerosing agents to percutaneous catheter drainage significantly improves success rate in the treatment of pelvic lymphoceles. Infected lymphoceles are usually treated solely with percutaneous catheter drainage. Percutaneous treatment can be tailored according to volume of lymphoceles. We generally prefer single session sclerotherapy and 1 day catheter drainage in lymphoceles less than 150 mL, and larger ones are treated by multi-session sclerotherapy until daily drainage decreases below 10 mL. Percutaneous treatment preferably with sclerotherapy should be considered as the first-line treatment modality for pelvic lymphoceles due to its effectiveness, widespread applicability on an outpatient basis, ease of procedure and low complication rate.

Laparoscopic fenestration of lymphoceles after kidney transplantation with diaphanoscopic guidance

In laparoscopic fenestration of lymphoceles after kidney transplantation, identification of the correct site of incision is sometimes difficult. We developed a new technique, using diaphanoscopy in 3 patients. After ultrasound-guided puncture and dilation, the correct incision site is identified by white light with a cystoscope inserted into the lymphocele cavity.

Laparoscopic treatment of post renal transplant lymphoceles

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, a post transplant lymphocele (PTL) is drained by widely opening the wall connecting the lymphocele cavity to the intraperitoneal space via laparotomy. We hypothesize that laparoscopic techniques can be effectively used for the treatment of PTL.

METHODS

Patients requiring intervention for PTL between 1993 and 2002 were identified via a retrospective review. Results of drainage via laparotomy and laparoscopy were compared.

RESULTS

During the study period 685 renal transplants (391 cadaveric, 294 living) were performed. The incidence of lymphocele was 5% [34/685 (36 cases)]. The indications for surgical drainage were local symptoms (69%), graft dysfunction (14%), or both (17%). The mean time to surgical therapy was 4.9 months. Laparoscopic drainage was performed in 25 patients (74%) and open drainage in 9 patients (26%). Open procedures were performed in cases for: previous abdominal surgery (5), undesirable lymphocele characteristics or location (2), or with concomitant open procedures (3). There were no conversions or operative complications in either group. There was no difference in operative time for the laparoscopic group vs the open group (108 +/- 6 vs 123 +/- 18 min, p = 0.8). Hospital stay was significantly shorter for the laparoscopic group (1.7 +/- 0.8 vs 3.8 +/- 1.0, p = 0.0007), with 88% of laparoscopic patients being either overnight admissions or same day surgery. Two patients (5%) developed symptomatic recurrences requiring reoperation [1 laparoscopic (4%), 1 open (10%)].

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic fenestration of a peritransplant lymphocele is a safe and effective treatment. The large majority of patients treated with laparoscopic fenestration were discharged within one day of surgery. Unless contraindications exist, laparoscopy should be considered first-line therapy for the surgical treatment of posttransplant lymphocele.

Scintigraphic patterns of lymphocele in post-renal transplant

Lymphocele is a common cause of fluid collection in post-renal transplant patients. Most of these patients are routinely followed up with 99mTc diethylenetriaminepentaacetate renal dynamic scintigraphy. The present study retrospectively reviews the range of findings with renal dynamic scintigraphy in documented lymphoceles. A lymphocele was diagnosed when there was a pelvic collection on ultrasonography with a similar biochemical composition to plasma. Four types of scintigraphy patterns were noted in lymphocele in a total of 13 patients. In nine patients there was an initial photopenic area, which progressively filled up with tracer activity equal to that of the background level in delayed images. In two other patients, the activity in the initial photopenic area exceeded the background activity in delayed images. A persistently photopenic area was seen in early and delayed images in the two remaining patients. In addition, a rim of increased tracer activity was noted surrounding the photopenic area in four patients in the early images. In conclusion, an initial photopenic area (with or without a surrounding rim of increased tracer activity), which fills up with tracer in delayed images seems to be the most common pattern seen in lymphoceles in scintigraphic studies of renal transplants. The presence of a rim sign may add confidence to the reporting of a collection as a lymphocele.

Laparoscopic drainage of lymphocele after kidney transplant

Lymphocele can develop after renal transplantation. Surgical internal drainage to the abdominal cavity through a standard laparotomy is indicated for symptomatic persistent lesions. Internal drainage can be performed laparoscopically. In this report, we describe our laparoscopic surgical technique for drainage and analyze our results in five patients with lymphoceles that developed after kidney transplantation. All the patients were male, with a mean age of 29 +/- 10 years. The volume of fluid in the lymphoceles ranged from 500 to 1000 mL. Percutaneous drainage was selected as the initial treatment without success. A laparoscopic peritoneal window was created in all patients under intraoperative ultrasonographic guidance. The mean operative time was 90 minutes. In all patients, the fluid collections resolved after laparoscopic internal drainage without complications. During a mean follow-up of 3 +/- 2 years, all patients remained asymptomatic, and no additional fluid collections were identified.

Incidence, therapy, and consequences of lymphocele after sirolimus-cyclosporine-prednisone immunosuppression in renal transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

In a retrospective study we sought to dissect the factors associated with an increased occurrence of clinically significant perinephric fluid collections and lymphoceles among sirolimus-treated renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

We compared the incidence, predisposing factors, and consequences of these fluid collections among patients treated with sirolimus-cyclosporine (CsA)-prednisone (Pred) (n=354, group I) versus CsA-Pred with or without azathioprine (n=136, group II).

RESULTS

More group I patients (135/354; 38.1%) displayed perinephric fluid collections (denoted as group III) then group II patients (24/136; 17.6%) (denoted as group IV) (P <0.001). In both subgroups the serum creatinine levels were elevated at the time of diagnosis from a nadir of 2.04+/-1.61 to 4.09+/-2.95 mg/dL (group III) and from 2.53+/-2.34 to 4.36+/-2.90 mg/dL (group IV). A significantly greater number of patients required treatment for lymphoceles among group I (56/354; 15.8%) versus group II recipients (6/136; 4.4%; P<0.001). Single or repeated percutaneous drainage procedures successfully treated 35 group I patients versus all 6 group IV patients (P =0.033). No patients in group II versus 21 patients in group I underwent surgical procedures (P <0.001). A significantly higher rate and higher histologic grade of acute rejection episodes, particularly proximate to the onset of the lymphocele, occurred among group IV patients, namely 54.2% (13/24) versus 21.4% (29/135) group III patients (P <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of sirolimus to a CsA-Pred regimen resulted in both a higher incidence and a requirement for more aggressive treatment of perinephric fluid collections and lymphoceles.

Laparoscopic fenestration of posttransplant lymphoceles

BACKGROUND

A lymphocele is a common finding after renal transplantation and occurs in up to 20% of patients. The majority of patients are asymptomatic. However, once a lymphocele has become symptomatic (e.g., through transplant dysfunction) this condition has to be treated. We report our 9-year experience with laparoscopic lymphocele fenestration and discuss the current management options for posttransplant lymphoceles.

METHODS

Since 1993, 19 patients (11 males and 8 females; median age 56 years, range 22-68 years) of a total of 31 patients with a symptomatic posttransplant lymphocele have undergone laparoscopic fenestration of their lymphocele at a median of 66 days (range, 19-111 days) following successful renal transplantation in our department. As a first-line treatment, a percutaneous pigtail drainage catheter was inserted in all patients. In case of failure in resolving the fluid collection, the next step included sclerotherapy by instillation of tetracycline or ethanol into the lymphocele cavity in some cases. In patients with a persistent lymphocele, a laparoscopic lymphocele fenestration via a transabdominal approach was undertaken to achieve adequate drainage.

RESULTS

Primary laparoscopic lymphocele fenestration was successful in all except two patients, who required a conversion. The median operating time was 36 min (range, 20-70 min). Following the procedure, renal transplant function remained stable or returned to individually normal levels in all patients. Median duration of hospital stay was 4 days (range, 1-13 days). At median follow-up of 27 months, all patients were alive with a functioning transplant.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic lymphocele fenestration is reserved for patients in whom temporary drainage with or without sclerotherapy failed to resolve the fluid collection. In these cases the laparoscopic approach offers obvious technical and clinical advantages compared to open operative techniques.

Pelvic lymphocele following motor vehicle collision

The development of lymphocele has been described in the mediastinum following thoracic duct injury from blunt trauma or surgery, in lower extremity surgery or trauma, and in the pelvis following renal transplant or staging lymphadenectomy. We describe a case of pelvic lymphocele following blunt trauma from a motor vehicle collision in which the patient did not sustain any fractures. The patient subsequently experienced right lower extremity pain and swelling thought to result from a deep venous thrombosis. Venogram demonstrated external compression of the right iliac vein, and computed tomography revealed a pelvic fluid collection. The patient underwent successful pigtail catheter placement under ultrasound guidance, and his symptoms resolved completely following 4 weeks of external drainage. A brief review of the diagnosis and management of lymphocele follows.

Laparoscopic treatment of lymphoceles in patients after renal transplantation

Postoperative lymphoceles after renal transplantation appear in up to 18% of patients, followed by individual indisposition, pain or impaired graft function. Therapeutic options are percutaneous drainage, needle aspiration with sclerosing therapy, or internal surgical drainage by conventional or laparoscopic approach. The laparoscopic procedure offers short hospitalisation time and quick postoperative recovery. From 1993 to 1997, 16 patients underwent laparoscopic fenestration of a post-renal transplant lymphocele, and were presented in a retrospective analysis. Three patients have had previous abdominal surgery. Following preoperative ultrasound and CT scan, 16 patients underwent laparoscopic drainage after drainage and staining of the lymphocele with methylene blue. No conversion was necessary. Mean operation time was 42 min, no intraoperative complications were seen. Oral nutrition and immunosuppression were continued on the day of surgery, and patients were discharged between the 2nd and 5th (median hospital stay 3.3 d) day after surgery. No recurrence was evident in a follow-up time of 15-54 months (median 31.4 months). Renal function remained unchanged in all patients postoperatively.

Laparoscopical marsupialization of symptomatic post-transplant lymphoceles

Post-transplant lymphoceles after kidney transplantations occur with an incidence between 2 and 15%. In the last two years we observed four patients with symptomatic lymphoceles. After an infection or urinoma had been ruled out all cases were operated on laparascopically. All goals of open surgery in lymphoceles were achieved by this minimally invasive technique within an operating time between 40 and 70 min. No complications or recurrences occurred during a mean follow-up period of 17.8 months. Symptomatic post-transplant lymphocele is a rare event and represents an ideal indication for laparoscopic marsupialization.

Laparoscopic marsupialization of lymphocele after combined pancreas-kidney transplantation

Early definitive treatment of symptomatic posttransplant lymphoceles offers good results with fewer graft losses and reduced morbidity. If interventional therapy fails, laparoscopic internal marsupialization to the peritoneal cavity may be performed with excellent results and at low cost. In combined pancreas-kidney transplantation the transperitoneal laparoscopic access may be difficult due to adhesions caused by the intraabdominal positioning of the pancreatic graft and posttransplantation pancreatitis. Both posttransplantation lavage of the abdominal cavity as well as immunosuppression reduce formation of intraabdominal adhesions subsequent to combined pancreas-kidney transplantation. Thus, posttransplant lymphoceles may be treated safely even after combined kidney-pancreas transplantation.

Percutaneous sclerotherapy of lymphoceles related to renal transplantation

PURPOSE

To determine the advantages of using transcatheter sclerotherapy to treat renal allograft-related lymphoceles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen patients first seen with symptomatic lymphoceles secondary to renal transplantation were treated with povidone-iodine percutaneous sclerotherapy. Percutaneous catheters were place by means of sonographic, computed tomographic, or combined fluoroscopic and sonographic guidance. Sclerotherapy was initiated while patients were in the hospital, and the patients then instilled povidone-iodine twice a day at home.

RESULTS

One patient had an inadequate trial period of therapy and was not included in the analysis. Seventeen lymphoceles were adequately sclerosed. Average length of treatment was 35 days. Three lymphoceles recurred and were effectively treated percutaneously. Follow-up studies showed no recurrence 1 month to 2 years after completion of therapy. No patient needed surgery for lymphocele repair.

CONCLUSION

Because of its safety and efficacy, percutaneous transcatheter sclerotherapy with povidone-iodine should be the treatment of choice in patients with lymphoceles that develop after renal transplantation.

Treatment of lymphocele in renal transplant recipients by laparoscopic fenestration after transcutaneous staining

Lymphocele is a rare cause of impairment of graft function after renal transplantation. Treatment ranges from external drainage to laparoscopic internal marsupialization. A therapeutic approach to the treatment of symptomatic lymphocele is described, which employs external drainage, if necessary followed by methylene blue staining and laparoscopic internal drainage, should conservative treatment fail. Five patients developed post-transplant lymphocele of varying size and were treated according to this protocol. Identification of the blue lymphocele at laparoscopy was straightforward and complete marsupialization was performed. After a mean follow-up of 8.4 months all patients are free from symptoms and have well functioning grafts.

Laparoscopic treatment of lymphoceles following kidney transplantation by intraperitoneal fenestration and omentoplasty

The recent development of endoscopic surgery and its use in treating several abdominal and thoracic surgical pathologies lead us to suggest its application in the treatment of posttransplant lymphoceles. The authors report two cases treated by the laparoscopic approach. Recurrence occurred in one of them. The technique is described and its place among other therapeutic modalities is discussed.

Laparoscopic deroofing of post-transplant lymphoceles

Lymphocele is a most common surgical complication following renal transplantation. The indication for treatment is given when the lymphocele becomes symptomatic. We succeeded in laparoscopically deroofing large lymphoceles in nine patients that were causing ureter compression in eight and ipsilateral leg edema in six cases. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the surgery-related hospitalization did not exceed 7 days. Severe adhesions and a thick lymphocele wall, which made preparation difficult, resulted in the transection of the transplant ureter in one case. Techniques and prerequisites that would help to avoid this type of complication are discussed. According to CT scan or sonography, there was no recurrence in any of the patients after a mean follow-up of 11 months. This technique seems to be superior to other methods of treatment because not only is a cure obtained with a single intervention, but there is also a low risk of infection and a short hospitalization.

Laparoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of lymphoceles following renal transplantation

The development of a lymphocele is an uncommon but well-documented complication of renal transplantation. In most patients, lymphoceles remain asymptomatic, and no intervention is required. In some cases, however, lymphoceles become symptomatic and cause systemic and local manifestations. Ultrasonic scanning can easily diagnose and locate the size and position of perirenal fluid collections. Many of these patients can be managed conservatively by aspiration and drainage of the lymphocele under radiologic guidance. However, if the lymphocele remains symptomatic or reaccumulates after aspiration and drainage, surgical intervention may be required. We describe two different ultrasound-guided laparoscopic techniques for drainage of a perirenal lymphocele into the peritoneal cavity. Successful drainage was accomplished in 5 patients, with 1 patient suffering an injury to the ureter of the transplant kidney. Recommendations regarding patient selection and operative technique are presented.

The optimal treatment of lymphoceles following renal transplantation

Lymphoceles are well-recognized complications following kidney transplantation. The authors describe their experience with the treatment of eight clinically significant lymphoceles (incidence 2.7%). In seven patients percutaneous needle aspiration was attempted, often repeatedly, both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In all of the patients the lymphocele recurred within days and internal marsupialization was therefore performed, in the last two patients utilizing minimal access surgery through laparoscopy. There were no postoperative complications or signs of a recurrence of the lymphocele. Patients following the laparoscopic marsupialization had a much briefer hospital stay and postoperative convalescence. Our results confirm that internal marsupialization is the procedure of choice for most post-transplant lymphoceles. Internal marsupialization through laparoscopy should be used in patients who meet the standard criteria for laparoscopy.

Laparoscopic internal drainage of lymphocele in renal transplant

Lymphoceles frequently develop following renal transplant surgery. The conventional methods used to drain lymphoceles are invasive and can be associated with complications. Laparoscopic drainage of posttransplant lymphoceles provides a safer alternative.

Treatment of lymphocele and lymphatic fistula following renal transplantation by laparoscopic peritoneal window

Symptomatic lymphoceles that occur after renal transplantation are managed best by surgical marsupialization with drainage into the peritoneal cavity. We report a case of post-transplant lymphocele associated with a cutaneous lymphatic fistula, which was successfully treated using laparoscopic drainage without a major surgical incision. With this new technique we were able to remove an ellipse of peritoneal wall along with the adjacent lymphocele wall and to lyse all internal lymphocele loculations, allowing for the free flow of lymph into the peritoneal cavity and cessation of cutaneous leakage. We believe that, when technically possible, laparoscopic internal peritoneal drainage is an effective procedure for managing simple and complex symptomatic lymphoceles with or without associated lymphatic fistulas, provided there is no evidence of infection.

Laparoscopic surgical technique for internal drainage of pelvic lymphocele

A previously unreported technique of internal drainage of a pelvic lymphocele is described using a laparoscopic approach to create the peritoneal window for drainage in 2 patients. The technique avoids a larger incision and permits a shorter recovery period.

Treatment of lymphocele associated with renal transplant

A new method of operative drainage of lymphoceles following renal transplantation is described. The technique involves intraperitoneal marsupialisation of the lymphocele cavity followed by insertion of a Tenckhoff peritoneal dialysis catheter to splint open the peritoneal window and act as an internal drain.

Povidone-iodine sclerosis of pelvic lymphoceles: a prospective study

Twelve patients presented for percutaneous catheter drainage of 13 postoperative pelvic lymphoceles. Six patients with 7 lymphoceles were treated with povidone-iodine sclerosis prior to catheter removal. Only 1 lymphocele (which continued to drain large amounts of fluid during and after the sclerosis procedure) recurred. Six patients with 6 lymphoceles had their percutaneous catheters removed without sclerosis. Fluid collections recurred in 3 instances, necessitating repeat percutaneous drainage (2 patients) or surgery (1 patient). Percutaneous therapy is the treatment of choice for patients with postoperative lymphoceles. Povidone-iodine sclerosis is often effective in preventing reaccumulation of fluid once the lymphocele cavity is collapsed.

The natural history of and therapy for perirenal fluid collections following renal transplantation

Fluid collections following renal transplantation are not rare and may be associated with serious complications. We studied the incidence, clinical features, pathology and treatment outcome of perirenal fluid collections after kidney transplantation. Between January 1977 and June 1985, 386 consecutive renal transplants were performed at our university. All allografts were studied with B-mode ultrasonography together with a renal scan in the immediate post-transplant period, at 6-month intervals or when clinically indicated. Symptomatic fluid collections, those associated with rejection episodes and those containing more than 50 to 100 ml. fluid were aspirated under sonographic control via aseptic techniques. There were 190 fluid collections (49 per cent) observed during followup (2 to 11 years). Of these collections 98 (51 per cent) were estimated to be less than 50 ml. in volume, were clinically insignificant and resulted in no morbidity. A total of 92 collections was aspirated with 1 aspiration being diagnostic and therapeutic in 57 instances (serous or serosanguinous fluid). The 35 collections remaining were revealed to be lymphoceles on biochemical grounds. Of 13 lymphoceles associated with rejection episodes 8 resolved on initial aspiration. Of the recurrent lymph collections 27 were treated with repeated aspiration, tetracycline sclerotherapy or an operation (10 were treated with marsupialization into the peritoneal cavity). No large collections of urine or blood were detected and 1 infected lymphocele required external drainage. No renal allograft was lost as a result of a fluid collection and over-all graft survival was not affected by the development of perirenal fluid collections. We conclude that perirenal fluid collections are detected commonly in the post-transplant period using B-mode ultrasonography. The majority of these collections are small and will require careful observation only or they will resolve with a single aspiration. Aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic measures are used only for those collections that are symptomatic or result in allograft dysfunction. A rational approach to the diagnosis and treatment of peritransplant fluid collections is described in the form of an algorithm.

Diagnosis and management of lymphoceles after renal transplantation

Eighteen lymphoceles developed after 199 renal transplantations, 11 being asymptomatic. Ultrasound was the most sensitive method of detection. Seven lymphoceles were symptomatic, pelvic mass and decreased renal function being the most frequent signs. Five lymphoceles were successfully treated by instillation of iodate povidone into the lymphatic cavity; there were no complications or recurrences. This is a simple, safe and inexpensive method for the treatment of lymphoceles after renal transplantation.

Percutaneous management of lymphatic fluid collections

Eight lymphatic fluid collections were drained percutaneously. There were no immediate or late complications. Seven patients had follow-up; 1 required surgical drainage of a residual or recurrent lymphocele, and another had reaccumulated fluid in a lymphocele which was detected on autopsy. The remaining lymphatic collections responded to percutaneous drainage. Percutaneous drainage is safe and can be an effective tool in the management of lymphatic collections.