Intranodal Lymphangiography during Surgical Repair of Pelvic Lymphorrhea after Radical Cystectomy

Abstract

Lymphorrhea can develop after various types of surgeries. Surgical closure of the lymphatic leakage point is an effective treatment option. However, it is difficult to identify the leakage point sometimes. Here, we report a case of pelvic lymphorrhea after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Identification of the leakage point was difficult during laparoscopic surgical repair of lymphorrhea. Intranodal lymphangiography was performed via the inguinal lymph node by injection of lipiodol, followed by injection of indigo carmine. Laparoscopy revealed extravasation of lipiodol and indigo carmine from the pelvic wall. The leakage point was successfully cauterized using an electric scalpel. Lymphorrhea improved after the surgical repair. This case suggests that intranodal lymphangiography may be useful for detecting the site of lymphatic leakage during the surgical repair of lymphorrhea.