The incidence and treatment of lymphoceles after radical retropubic prostatectomy.

Abstract

To determine the incidence and treatment of lymphoceles after retropubic radical prostatectomy (RP). Up to January 2004, 260 patients who had a retropubic RP in one institution by one surgeon were assessed retrospectively, using the patients' notes or the computerized results system to determine whether a lymphocele was suspected and then confirmed by imaging studies (computed tomography or ultrasonography). Nine patients developed symptomatic lymphoceles; eight of these were detected by imaging. Four lymphoceles required intervention while the remainder regressed spontaneously. No complications were reported in the group that was treated. The rate of symptomatic lymphocele formation was low after RP, with an overall incidence of 3.5%. Ultrasonography was effective in detecting lymphoceles and ultrasonographically guided percutaneous drainage an effective treatment.