A Technique for Excision of Abdominal and Pelvic Neuroblastomas

INTRODUCTION: As neuroblastomas usually envelope major vessels, excision poses a significant technical problem. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Over a 22-year period, 234 infants and children have undergone attempted surgical excision of abdominal or pelvic neuroblastomas using a consistent surgical approach. This entails a systematic dissection of the involved vessels prior to removal of the tumour. RESULTS: Macroscopically complete or near complete tumour clearance was achieved in 89% of cases. Three aortic injuries occurred which required repair. CONCLUSIONS: The described technique is safe and reproducible and allows tumour clearance in the majority of affected children.