Inferior Vena Cava Leiomyosarcoma: Is Reconstruction Necessary after Resection?

Abstract

Leiomyosarcoma of the IVC is a treatable malignancy. Preoperative external-beam radiation facilitates marginally negative resection, although our study is too small to demonstrate a survival benefit. Reconstruction of the IVC is not necessary for resection of tumors below the level of the hepatic veins in most if not all cases. Lower-extremity edema after ligation of the IVC is well tolerated. Acute renal failure can be a common, albeit transient, early postoperative complication. Extensive periaortic dissection can be associated with chylous leak, which can be managed with internal or external drainage.