Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy with CME, CVL, and Right Gastroepiploic Vessel Division

Overview

This case report details a laparoscopic approach to right hemicolectomy incorporating complete mesocolic excision (CME), central vascular ligation (CVL), and infrapyloric lymph node dissection via division of the right gastroepiploic vessels. The technique is demonstrated in an elderly patient with high-risk features for nodal metastasis, emphasizing safe dissection to minimize complications.

Background

Complete mesocolic excision with central vascular ligation is an advanced surgical technique aimed at improving oncologic outcomes in right-sided colon cancer by thorough lymphadenectomy. Infrapyloric lymph node dissection remains controversial and is not routinely performed but may be indicated in patients with elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels and obstructive symptoms. The right gastroepiploic vessels are key landmarks in safely accessing the infrapyloric region during laparoscopic surgery. Meticulous technique is required to reduce risks of bleeding and chyle leakage during this extended lymphadenectomy.

Data Highlights

No new datasets were generated or analyzed in this case report; the article focuses on surgical technique and indications.

Key Findings

• Laparoscopic infrapyloric lymph node dissection can be safely performed as part of CME in selected right colon cancer patients.
• Division of the right gastroepiploic vessels is a critical step to access and clear the infrapyloric lymph nodes.
• Indications for extended lymphadenectomy include elevated CEA (>17 ng/ml) and obstructive symptoms, reflecting higher metastatic risk.
• Meticulous dissection techniques minimize intraoperative bleeding and chyle leakage.
• The procedure was successfully performed in an 88-year-old patient, demonstrating feasibility in elderly populations.

Clinical Implications

Surgeons should consider infrapyloric lymph node dissection during laparoscopic right hemicolectomy in patients with high-risk features for nodal metastasis. Mastery of the anatomy around the right gastroepiploic vessels and careful dissection techniques are essential to minimize complications. This approach may enhance oncologic clearance without compromising patient safety.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with CME, CVL, and division of right gastroepiploic vessels for infrapyloric lymph node dissection is a feasible and safe technique in selected patients. It offers a potential oncologic benefit by addressing extended nodal basins in right-sided colon cancer.

References

1. Ng ZQ, Tan JH (2025) Laparoscopic radical right hemicolectomy with CME, CVL and division of right gastroepiploic vessels. Tech Coloproctol
2. Mazzarella G et al (2021) Complete mesocolic excision and D3 lymphadenectomy with central vascular ligation in right-sided colon cancer: a systematic review. Surg Endosc
3. Sica GS et al (2023) Definition and reporting of lymphadenectomy and complete mesocolic excision for radical right colectomy: a systematic review. Surg Endosc
4. Piozzi GN et al (2022) Infrapyloric and gastroepiploic node dissection for hepatic flexure and transverse colon cancer: a systematic review. Eur J Surg Oncol
5. Liu J et al (2021) Clinical analysis of metastatic characteristics of infrapyloric lymph nodes in right colon cancer. World J Surg Oncol