Significant reduction of lymphoceles after radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection

Objectives To reduce the risk of symptomatic lymphocele (SLC), we present a technique using peritoneal fenestration that allows lymphatic fluid to drain into the abdomen, as SLC formation after open retropubic radical prostatectomy (ORP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is a common adverse event. Patients and Methods We identified 1513 patients who underwent ORP with PLND between July 2018 and November 2019. Of those, 307 patients (20.3%) received peritoneal fenestration and 1206 (79.7%) no fenestration. The rate of LCs and the necessity for intervention were analysed by uni- and multivariable logistic regression (MLR) models. A propensity score matching was performed, as well. Results The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 65 (60-70) years. A median (IQR) of 16 (10-22) lymph nodes were dissected, 22 vs 14 lymph nodes in the fenestration vs non-fenestration group (P < 0.001). Overall, 189 patients (12.5%) were diagnosed with a LC after ORP, while 21 patients (6.8%) in the fenestration and 168 (13.9%) in the non-fenestration group had LCs (P = 0.001). In 70 patients (4.7%), LCs required further intervention, categorised as Clavien-Dindo Grade IIIa/b, with a smaller proportion in the fenestration group (2.9% vs 5.0% in the non-fenestration group, P < 0.001). There were no Clavien-Dindo Grade IV or V complications, in particular no abdominal complications in association with peritoneal fenestration observed. In MLR, peritoneal fenestration was associated with a reduced risk of LCs (odds ratio [OR] 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2-0.5; P < 0.001). The risk reduction was also shown after propensity score matching (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.21-0.68; P = 0.001). The number needed to treat was 14. Conclusions Peritoneal fenestration may decrease the rate of SLC after ORP with (extended) PLND. Therefore, it should be part of the operative strategy.

Automated summary

The technique of peritoneal fenestration significantly reduces the risk of symptomatic lymphocele formation after open retropubic radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection, leading to a decreased need for further intervention.