Chylous ascites following retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy.

A case of postoperative chylous ascites accumulation after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection is reviewed. Although uncommon, this complication is distressing and because of the close proximity of the cisterna chyli to the renal pedicles it may be encountered with any retroperitoneal procedures involving this area. Avoidance of the complication by specific identification and ligation of these structures appears to be the best treatment. Several forms of operative and non-operative therapy have been noted and survival rates in the iatrogenic form of chylous ascites appear to be good based on a limited series of cases.