retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, surgical removal of lymph nodes bilaterally behind the peritoneum, and the lymph channels and fat around both renal pedicles, the vena cava, and the aorta, including the bifurcation of the aorta. The dissection is usually performed in an attempt to eliminate sites of lymphoma or metastases from malignancies originating in pelvic organs or genitalia. Also called radical lymphadenectomy.
