VS 03 - BN Laparoscopic Excision of Aortic Schwannoma

Abstract Background This video presentation describes a laparoscopic approach to the excision of a large retroperitoneal cyst in a 39 year old female presenting with generalised abdominal pain. The patient had a background of Type 2 Diabetes, as well as a laparoscopic hysterectomy. Method The patient presented acutely with the above symptoms. CT and MRI both confirmed a large retroperitoneal cyst measuring 8x9cm. EUS was performed showed a thin walled cyst and a normal pancreas. FNA cytology was benign, hydatid serology was negative Results MDT decision was to go ahead with formal surgical resection. Laparoscopic excision of the cyst was performed, demonstrating that the pancreas was displaced anteriorly, with the coeliac axis displaced to the right. The cyst did not involve the pancreas or adrenal gland. Post operative histology found the cyst to be an aortic schwannoma. Conclusion This video demonstrates the complex retroperitoneal dissection that can be performed laparoscopically. The patient was discharged on post op day 8 with surveillance follow up