Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of non-seminomatous testicular cancer.

Objective: To assess the results of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) of residual masses in patients with disseminated non-seminomatous germ cell tumour treated with cisplatin-based chemotherapy, both in terms of extension of surgery, morbidity and survival.

Patients And Methods: Retrospectively, all patients treated for non-seminomatous germ cell tumour at the University Hospital of Antwerp were studied from January 1987 till December 1997. In patients with non-seminomatous testicular cancer more than stage I, the 'wait and see' strategy changed and patients were treated with chemotherapy.

Long-term results of surgical resection of lung metastases.

Between 1990 and 2000, 56 consecutive patients underwent lung resection for removal of metastatic disease. Mortality, disease-free interval, and overall survival were studied. Only patients with a complete follow-up were included and data were collected conform the protocol of the International Registry of Lung Metastases.

Congenital right-sided diaphragmatic hernia in an elderly patient. A case report.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a rare condition in adulthood. It is even more exceptional when located on the right side. We describe a case of right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a 74-year old woman.

Rectovaginal fistulas.

The treatment of rectovaginal fistulas is controversial. The choice of the technique used for repair depends on many factors. Therefore the classification, etiology and treatment are discussed, in order to help decision making in the management of this troublesome disease.

Effect of gentamicin-containing sponges on the healing of colonic anastomoses in a rat model of peritonitis.

Objective: To study the influence of gentamicin-containing sponges on the healing of colonic anastomoses in a rat model of peritonitis.

Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Setting: University hospital, Belgium.