Videosurgery in oncological pediatrics

As a recent innovation, videosurgery (VS) has enjoyed rapid and widespread development. While colon cancers in adults are quite commonly removed using laparoscopic techniques, children could also benefit from the improved diagnostic and interventional possibilities using VS techniques. From January 1992 to February 1994, we carried out 15 procedures. Eight thoracic operations were performed on 7 patients: diagnostic in 5 cases and metastasis resection in 3. Six patients underwent 7 laparoscopic operations for biopsies (5) or lymph-node harvesting (2). Based on this experience, we discuss the advantages of VS (noninvasive technique for primary or second-look exploration, guided biopsies, and removal of tumors) and its risks (spillage of malignant cells, subjective palpation) in the management of pediatric malignancies.