Venous resection in urological surgery.

PURPOSE

Complete removal of retroperitoneal and pelvic tumors may require resection or ligation of major retroperitoneal, pelvic and mesenteric venous structures. We provide an overview of venous anatomy and collateral drainage, and review the veins that can be safely resected.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed major anatomical texts, and performed a directed MEDLINE literature search of retroperitoneal, pelvic and mesenteric venous anatomy. Resection and reconstruction of these vessels were also reviewed with an emphasis on collateral blood flow and post-resection sequelae.

RESULTS

The infrarenal inferior vena cava, iliac veins, left renal vein, lumbar veins, inferior mesenteric vein and splenic vein may be resected or ligated without reconstruction. Resection of the right renal vein results in renal demise in the majority of instances. The portal vein may not be resected without reconstruction. Venous reconstruction may be performed with autologous or synthetic graft material.

CONCLUSIONS

Most major veins in the body can be safely resected or ligated with minimal sequelae. However, it is imperative to understand venous anatomy and collateral blood flow to minimize intraoperative and postoperative complications.