Laparoscopic Evaluation of Lymphomas

Whereas in the past, the surgeon's role in the treatment of patients with abdominal lymphoma was to provide staging through celiotomy to accomplish liver biopsy, periaortic node dissection, and splenectomy. During the last several years, laparoscopic diagnosis and staging of patients with Hodgkin's disease has proven to be a valuable tool for complete evaluation of patients with abdominal lymphoma. Although the role of splenectomy continues to be controversial, safe and effective liver biopsy, nodal sampling, and full abdominal visualization are possible using laparoscopic techniques. Although the role of abdominal staging is less valuable in patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, safe biopsy can be performed in these patients so that an early and appropriate diagnosis can be made.