World journal of surgery
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World journal of surgery · Jun 2004
Liver transplantation techniques with preservation of the natural venovenous bypass: effect on surgical resection of renal cell carcinoma invading the inferior vena cava.
Although renal tumors invading the inferior vena cava (IVC) are unusual, they represent a challenge to the surgical team because their accessibility is difficult. Liver transplantation techniques have been developed that preserve the venous collaterals, enhance the exposure, increase the safety of the resection, and avoid cardiopulmonary bypass. We describe our technique for dealing with renal tumors that have invaded the IVC, a combined experience of two centers, and the safety of the procedure and subsequent low morbidity. ⋯ The median follow-up was 36 months, during which time 6 patients developed metastatic disease and 37 were disease-free. We concluded that liver transplantation techniques enhance the surgical management of complicated urologic tumors. Patients with tumor thrombus extending to the IVC can be treated while avoiding thoracotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass.