Retroperitoneal Dissections

Retroperitoneal dissection is the name typically reserved for a procedure that is performed to remove lymph nodes that are in the retroperitoneum. However, retroperitoneal approach is frequently utilized during pelvic surgery to isolate important structures, for example, ureters, nerves, and vasculature to avoid injury to these structures. In addition, uterine artery ligation at its origin can be performed via retroperitoneal dissection at the time of a difficult hysterectomy to avoid significant blood loss. In certain circumstances, this approach may be the only safe method of controlling blood supply to the uterus with a significantly distorted anatomy due to extensive scarring, fibroids, endometriosis, or malignancy.