Laparoscopic resection of an intra-abdominal cystic mass: a cystic mesothelioma
Birch, D.W.; Park, A.; Chen, V.
Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien de Chirurgie 41(2): 161-164
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0008-428X PMID: 9576001 Document Number: 487517
The clinical features of a patient with an intra-abdominal cystic mass do not lead to a specific diagnosis. Aspiration is usually ineffective because the mass recurs and cytologic investigation is often non-diagnostic. Conservative management is unsuccessful because symptoms often persist. Surgical management of cystic masses is required for definitive management and pathologic diagnosis. A laparoscopic approach to the diagnosis and treatment can provide essential anatomic information and a complete resection with minimal morbidity. A laparoscopic technique using 3 trocars and maintaining the integrity of the mass allows complete excision and removal of large intra-abdominal cystic masses as reported in a 43-year-old patient with a large intra-abdominal cystic mass identified as a benign cystic mesothelioma.