Inferior vena cava resection and reconstruction: Technical considerations in the surgical management of renal cell carcinoma with tumor thrombus

The mainstay of treatment for renal cell carcinoma with invasion of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is complete surgical extirpation. Cases complicated by adherent or invasive tumor thrombus represent a special technical challenge due to the need for resection of a large segment of the IVC. The aim of this review is to describe the indications and surgical approach for radical nephrectomy with en bloc resection of the IVC with or without venous reconstruction. In addition, special attention is paid to the relevant anatomical and hemodynamic considerations related to the development of venous collateral pathways secondary to IVC obstruction.