Prevalence of endometrioma and deep infiltrating endometriosis at transvaginal ultrasound examination of subfertile women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of endometrioma and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE), assessed by systematic transvaginal ultrasound examination, in women with subfertility accepted for their first assisted reproductive treatment and to describe the prevalence of endometriotic lesions in different anatomical locations of the pelvis.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University hospital.

PATIENT(S)

A total of 1,191 women with subfertility aged 25-39 years accepted for their first assisted reproductive treatment between December 2018 and May 2021.

INTERVENTION(S)

All women underwent a systematic transvaginal ultrasound examination. The endometriotic lesions visible on ultrasound examination were described according to the International Deep Endometriosis Analysis group consensus opinion for systematic approach to assess endometriotic lesions.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Prevalence of endometrioma and DIE in women with subfertility and prevalence of endometriotic lesions in various anatomical locations of the pelvis.

RESULT(S)

Endometriosis prevalence was 21.8%, with endometriotic lesions found in 260 of the 1,191 women. Overall, 125 (10.5%) women had endometrioma and 205 (17.2%) women had DIE. Of these 260 women, 197 (75.8% of women with endometriosis) did not have any previous knowledge about having endometriosis. The most common location for endometriotic lesions was the uterosacral ligaments, with lesions found in 151 (12.7%) of all women. The second most common location was the ovaries containing endometrioma, found in 125 (10.5%) women. Most women had 1 (n = 121, 10.2%) or 2 (n = 82, 6.9%) endometriotic lesions.

CONCLUSION(S)

The prevalence of endometrioma and DIE in women with subfertility, diagnosed by systematic transvaginal ultrasound examination, was 21.8%. Of these, three-fourth of women had no knowledge about the presence of disease.

Clinical characteristics and surgical management of endometriosis-associated infertility: A multicenter prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To study clinical, surgical characteristics and the relationship between endometriosis lesion types and conception rate after surgery in infertile women with endometriosis.

METHODS

A prospective, multicenter cohort of 204 women (age 20-35 years) with endometriosis was followed up post-surgery between November 2017 and February 2020 at three tertiary-care hospitals.

RESULTS

Based on the severity of endometriosis lesion type, deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) (81/204, 39.7%) was the most common lesion; followed by ovarian endometriosis (OMA) (64/204, 31.4%), and superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SUP) (59/204, 28.9%). Endometriosis patients had a single lesion type (94/204, 46.1%), two lesion types (77/204, 37.7%), or three lesion types (33/204, 16.2%) with significant differences between regions (P < 0.001). Around 40% (37/95) of obese women had SUP (P = 0.003) whereas 78% (14/18) of underweight women had DIE (P < 0.001). Significant differences in mean Endometriosis Fertility Index scores between endometriosis lesion types and patients with one, two, and three types of lesions were observed (P < 0.001). The majority (22/32, 68.8%) of the women conceived naturally after the surgery. Half (16/32; 50%) of the women with a single lesion type conceived after the surgery; of which most (13/16, 81.2%) had SUP, followed by OMA (2/16, 12.5%), and DIE (1/16, 6.3%).

CONCLUSION

Women with SUP and only one type of endometriotic lesion were more likely to conceive post-surgery.

Effect of Surgical Findings on Prediction of Postoperative Ovarian Reserve in Patients with Ovarian Endometrioma

Objective

Revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) classification for endometriosis is considered to have limited ability to predict fertility after surgery. This study evaluated the effect of surgical findings described by the rASRM classification on postoperative change in serum Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in endometriosis.

Study Design

We retrospectively analyzed 112 patients with endometrioma who underwent laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy. The ovarian score was defined as the sum of the endometrioma score from the size and depth of endometrioma and the adhesion score from the extent and types of ovarian adhesion described in the rASRM classification. The ovarian score was correlated with the AMH levels before surgery (AMH0), 3 (AMH3), and 6 months (AMH6) after surgery. To design a model for predicting AMH6, using ovarian score and AMH0, we calculated the unstandardized predictive value of AMH6/AMH0 (UPV) by linear regression analysis. The predicted AMH6 (pAMH6) could be calculated by multiplying the UPV by AMH0. When AMH6 is less than 1.0 ng/mL, it was defined as a poor ovarian reserve group (PORG), and the accuracy of the predictive model was validated.

Results

The level of AMH declined more in rASRM stage IV compared to stage III after surgery. The ovarian score had a significant variable in the linear regression analysis with the ratio of AMH6/AMH0 (p = 0.001). The UPV was correlated with ovarian score negatively. The pAMH6 correlated with AMH6 positively and with age negatively. The pAMH6 showed sensitivity 0.564, specificity 0.909, positive predictive rate 0.786, and negative predictive rate 0.800 in the prediction of PORG (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The pAMH6 predicted the PORG at 6 months after surgery. Based on the results of our study, the surgical findings, including the size and depth of the endometrioma and extent and types of adhesion could be useful indicators for ovarian reserve after surgery.

Impact on ovarian reserve and fertility using carbon dioxide laser for endometriosis treatment: a systematic review

BackgroundThe application of carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser for laparoscopic gynecologic surgery was introduced in 1979 and spread after improving instrumentation, due to the versatility of the CO₂ laser technology and the parallel increase of laparoscopic use. In a gynecologic setting, laser laparoscopy has been demonstrated to be effective in treating infertility and pain associated with mild to severe endometriosis.Aim and methods: This document aims at conducting a systematic review to provide a comprehensive literature overview regarding the rationale, indications, safety, and efficacy of CO₂ laser treatment of endometriosis and related outcomes on ovarian reserve and fertility.ResultsCO₂ laser seems to lead to lower heat damage in the ovarian tissue than bipolar energy during endometriomas treatment. Moreover, several reports have pointed out that laser vaporization allows to selectively destroy the endometrioma wall's internal surface, preserving the pericystic fibrotic capsule or the adjacent healthy ovarian cortex. Despite this, robust data we have so far indicates that the most effective laparoscopic approach for managing endometriomas is the traditional excisional technique providing better postoperative outcomes than drainage and electrocoagulation, and laser treatment. Data about fertility after treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) using dioxide laser are emerging but very poor.ConclusionsCurrent scientific evidence in this field is inconclusive, and the debate about the safety and efficacy of the CO₂ laser on fertility outcomes is still ongoing. Further randomized case-control studies are mandatory to attain more consistent evidence.

The Development of Predictive Nomogram of Recurrence for Patients With Endometrioma After Cystectomy Who Were Younger Than 45 Years Old and Received Postoperative Therapy

Objective:

This study aimed to establish an effective prognostic nomogram for the postoperative recurrence of endometrioma or endometriosis-related pain for patients with endometrioma after long-term follow-up, who were younger than 45 years old and received postoperative therapy.

Methods

The predictive nomogram was based on 323 patients who underwent cystectomy for endometrioma at Perking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2009 to April 2013, and the last follow-up occurred in September 2018. We collected information on all included patients, including preoperative data, intraoperative data, and long-term follow-up data after surgery. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to evaluate the prognostic effects of multiple clinical parameters on recurrence. The survival curve was depicted based on Kaplan-Meier method and compared by log-rank method. The Index of concordance (C-index) and calibration curves were used to access the discrimination ability and predictive accuracy of the nomogram respectively, and the results were further validated via bootstrap resampling. In addition, calculating the area under the curve (AUC) via risk scores of patients aimed to further access the prediction ability of the model.

Results

On multivariate analysis of derivation cohort, independent factors for recurrence such as dysmenorrhea degree, sum of both cyst diameters, presence of adenomyosis, and other essential factors for recurrence such as age at surgery, presence of uterine fibroids were all selected into the nomogram. The C-index of the nomogram for predicting recurrence was 0.683 (95% CI, 0.610- 0.755). The calibration curve for probability of recurrence for 7 years and 9 years showed great agreement between prediction by nomogram and actual observation. Furthermore, the AUCs of risk score for 7-year and 9-year were 0.680 and 0.790 respectively.

Conclusion

This research tried to develop the predictive nomogram of recurrence for patients with endometrioma after cystectomy. The C-index and calibration curve of nomogram, as well as the AUC of the nomogram was potential to predict the recurrence probability. In addition, this predictive nomogram needs external data sets to further validate its prognostic accuracy in the future.

Endometriosis at all ages: diagnostic ultrasound

Endometriosis is a gynecological disease affecting about 10% of the female population. The multifactorial hormonal, inflammatory, genetic, mental and behavior pathogenesis can result in chronic pelvic pain, blooding disorders and infertility causing disruption of quality of life. Correct diagnosis of the extension and topography is substantial in defining the adequate therapeutic strategy. In an increasing proportion of the cases, endometriosis is being managed medically and para-medically; diagnostic or therapeutic surgery can often be avoided or delayed. Transvaginal sonography is considered being the first-line imaging method in the diagnosis of pelvic endometriosis. The paradigm shift from the belief that endometriosis only affects women of reproductive age has drawn attention to endometriosis in both premenarchal and postmenopausal patients. This review resumes the actually recommended ultrasound signs in the case of patients in menstrual age. Specific diagnostic approaches in adolescent and menopausal patients are highlighted.

Endometriosis and Infertility: A Long-Life Approach to Preserve Reproductive Integrity

Laparoscopic surgery was originally considered the gold standard in the treatment of endometriosis-related infertility. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) was indicated as second-line treatment or in the case of male factor. The combined approach of surgery followed by ART proved to offer higher chances of pregnancy in infertile women with endometriosis. However, it was highlighted how pelvic surgery for endometriosis, especially in cases of ovarian endometriomas, could cause iatrogenic damage due to ovarian reserve loss, adhesion formation (scarring), and ischemic damage. Furthermore, in the last few years, the trend to delay the first childbirth, recent technological advances in ultrasound diagnosis, and technological progress in clinical and laboratory aspects of ART have certainly influenced the approach to infertility and endometriosis with, ART assuming a more relevant role. Management of endometriosis should take into account that the disease is chronic and involves the reproductive system. Consequently, treatment and counselling should aim to preserve the chances of pregnancy for the patient, even if it is not associated with infertility. This review will analyse the evolution of the management of infertility associated with endometriosis and propose an algorithm for treatment decision-making based on the most recent acquisitions.

Prevalence of endometriosis and adenomyosis at transvaginal ultrasound examination in symptomatic women

INTRODUCTION

Prevalence of endometriosis is commonly reported based on surgery findings and varies widely depending on study population and indication for surgery. Symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, dyspareunia, dysuria, and dyschezia can be associated with endometriosis and adenomyosis. Transvaginal ultrasound examination is proposed to be the first-line diagnostic method, nevertheless there are no published ultrasound-based studies reporting prevalence of endometriosis and adenomyosis in symptomatic women other than those scheduled for surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of endometriosis and adenomyosis as assessed by transvaginal ultrasound in women with symptoms suggestive of endometriosis and adenomyosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study performed at a tertiary-care center including 373 symptomatic women who were systematically examined with transvaginal ultrasound by an experienced ultrasound examiner. Before ultrasound examination women filled in a questionnaire including self-assessment of the severity of their symptoms (dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, dysuria, dyschezia) using a visual analog scale. Abnormal findings in the uterus, ovaries, bowel, urinary bladder, uterosacral ligaments, and rectovaginal septum were noted, and their size and location were described. Prevalence of endometriosis, adenomyosis, endometrioma, and deep endometriosis in different anatomical locations was reported.

RESULTS

Prevalence of ovarian endometrioma and/or deep endometriosis was 25% and of adenomyosis was 12%. Prevalence of endometrioma was 20% and of deep endometriosis was 9%, for each location being 8% in the bowel, 3% in the uterosacral ligaments, 3% in the rectovaginal septum and 0.5% in the urinary bladder.

CONCLUSIONS

In symptomatic women examined with transvaginal ultrasound by an experienced ultrasound examiner, ovarian endometrioma and/or deep endometriosis was found in one of four women and adenomyosis in one of nine women. Deep endometriosis was present in one of 11 women. Despite having symptoms, half of the women had no abnormal ultrasound findings.

A prospective study examining the effect of dienogest treatment on endometrioma size and symptoms

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the effect of dienogest on cyst volume, symptoms, and quality of life in patients with endometrioma.

METHOD

This prospective cohort study included 37 patients diagnosed with endometrioma and planned for medical treatment. Subjects were treated with a 3-month oral dose of dienogest 2 mg/day. Pre-treatment and post-treatment endometriosis measurements were assessed via 3D ultrasonography, pain symptoms via 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS), and quality of life via Short Form-36.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 36.0 ± 6.6 years. The mean endometrioma volume was significantly reduced by 31% after treatment (26.7 ± 19.7 mm³) compared to the pre-treatment volume (17.4 ± 11.2 mm³, p < .001). Post-treatment VAS scores of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain VAS values were significantly decreased by 35.5% (p < .001), 37.5% (p < .001), and 38.5% (p < .001), respectively. The mean physical function score and mental health score significantly increased by 15% (p = .009) and 28% (p < .001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed dienogest treatment at oral doses of 2 mg/day for 3 months significantly reducing the size of endometrioma, reducing pain level, and increasing quality of life in women with endometriosis.

Salpingo-oophorectomy or surveillance for ovarian endometrioma in asymptomatic premenopausal women: a cost-effectiveness analysis

BACKGROUND

The lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is 1.9% among women with endometriosis compared with 1.3% among the general population. When an asymptomatic endometrioma is incidentally discovered on imaging, gynecologists must weigh the procedural complications and the potential for subsequent surgical menopause against future ovarian pathology or cancer.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine if performing unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is a more cost-effective strategy for the prevention of death than surveillance for asymptomatic endometriomas.

STUDY DESIGN

We created a cost-effectiveness model using TreeAge Pro (TreeAge Software Inc; Williamstown, MA) with a lifetime horizon. Our hypothetical cohort included premenopausal patients with 2 ovaries who did not desire fertility. Those diagnosed with asymptomatic endometrioma underwent either unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy or surveillance (ultrasound 6-12 weeks after diagnosis, then annually). Our primary effectiveness outcome was mortality, including death from ovarian cancer or surgery and all-cause mortality related to surgical menopause (± hormone replacement therapy) if the contralateral ovary is removed. We modeled the probabilities of surgical complications, occult malignancy, development of contralateral adnexal pathology, surgical menopause, use of hormone replacement therapy, and development of ovarian cancer. The costs included surgical procedures, complications, ultrasound surveillance, hormone therapy, and treatment of ovarian cancer, with information gathered from Medicare reimbursement data and published literature. Cost-effectiveness was determined using the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of Δ costs / Δ deaths with a willingness-to-pay threshold of $11.6 million as the value of a statistical life. Multiple 1-way sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate model robustness.

RESULTS

Our model demonstrated that unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is associated with improved outcomes compared with surveillance, with fewer deaths (0.28% vs 1.50%) and fewer cases of ovarian cancer (0.42% vs 2.96%). However, it costs more than sonographic surveillance at $6403.43 vs $5381.39 per case of incidental endometrioma. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio showed that unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy costs $83,773.77 per death prevented and $40,237.80 per case of ovarian cancer prevented. As both values were well below the willingness-to-pay threshold, unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is cost-effective and is the preferred strategy. If unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were chosen over surveillance for premenopausal patients with incidental endometriomas, 1 diagnosis of ovarian cancer would be prevented in every 40 patients and 1 death averted in every 82 patients. We performed 1-way sensitivity analyses for all input variables and determined that there were no reasonable inputs that would alter our conclusions.

CONCLUSION

Unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is cost-effective and is the preferred strategy compared with surveillance for the management of incidental endometrioma in a premenopausal patient not desiring fertility. It incurs fewer deaths and fewer cases of ovarian cancer with costs below the national willingness-to-pay thresholds.

Progestin-Primed Ovarian Stimulation Protocol for Patients With Endometrioma

Objective

To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes of progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) protocol for patients with endometrioma underwent in vitro fertilization/intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET).

Design

Observational retrospective cohort study.

Setting

University affiliated reproductive center.

Study Participants

605 infertile patients with endometrioma underwent IVF/ICSI-ET from January 2016 to March 2021 were included in this study.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the independent effect of controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocols on reproductive outcomes of first embryo transfer (ET) cycles. The live birth was primary outcome, the implantation rate, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy were secondary outcomes.

Results

Compared to PPOS protocol, the probability of implantation showed no significant difference with ultra-long gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) protocol and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonist (GnRHant) protocol (OR 1.7, 95% CI 0.9-3.1, OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.7-2.1, respectively). The PPOS protocol was correlated with a significantly lower biochemical pregnancy and clinical pregnancy than ultra-long GnRHa protocol in the multivariable logistic regression analysis (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-4.9, OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1-5.3, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in terms of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy between PPOS and GnRHant protocol (OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.7-2.7, OR 1.3, 95% CI 0.7-2.4, OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.6-2.3, respectively). In addition, compared to PPOS protocol, ultra-long GnRHa protocol and GnRHant protocol demonstrated no statistical difference in ongoing pregnancy (OR 2.0, 95% CI 0.9-4.5, OR 2.1, 95% CI 0.6-2.3, respectively). Notably, the ultra-long GnRHa protocol was associated with a significant higher probability of live birth than PPOS protocol both in crude analysis and multivariable logistic regression analysis (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3-5.1, OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1-5.7, respectively). Nevertheless, no statistical difference was found in live birth between PPOS and GnRHant protocol either in crude analysis and multivariable logistic regression analysis (OR1.2, 95% CI 0.6-2.3, OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.6-2.5, respectively).

Conclusions

Based on the reproductive outcomes of the first ET cycles in patients with endometrioma, PPOS protocol may associated with inferior reproductive outcomes in terms of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth than ultra-long GnRHa protocol. However, there was no significant difference in implantation rate, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy and live birth between PPOS and GnRHant protocol.

Comparison of the effect on the ovarian reserve of modern methods of treatment of endometrioid cysts

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in laparoscopy and transvaginal sclerotherapy for the treatment of endometrioid cysts for maintaining ovarian reserve.

METHODS

The study included 71 women under age 35 years with primary and secondary infertility. Twenty women underwent sclerotherapy of endometrioid cysts followed by autologous PRP injection into ovarian tissue, and 21 underwent laparoscopic cyst removal by stripping followed by autologous PRP injection. The control group consisted of 30 women who underwent laparoscopic cystectomy by stripping without autologous PRP injection. We assessed ovarian reserve for all patients before surgery as well 3 and 6 months after surgery by measuring serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels and calculating antral follicle count using ultrasound.

RESULTS

In the control group, AMH levels had decreased significantly at 3 and 6 months post-surgery, whereas levels in laparoscopy and PRP group remained almost unchanged from initial levels. In the sclerotherapy group, we observed a tendency towards increased AMH levels, but it was not statistically significant when compared with initial results. Follicle count changes were similar to AMH patterns.

CONCLUSION

In this study, sclerotherapy in combination with PRP therapy for ovarian endometriomas was associated with improved measures of ovarian reserve, and the combination of laparoscopic excision of the endometrioma with PRP therapy facilitated ovarian reserve preservation.

Abdominal wall endometriosis: a case report

Abdominal wall endometriosis is the development of endometrial tissue in the anterior abdomen usually due to an operation in which the uterus is manipulated. We herein delineate the presentation, clinical investigation, and surgical treatment of an abdominal wall endometriosis case. A 42-year-old female presented with acute abdominal pain in the lower quadrants in the margins of an old cesarean scar. Two masses in the abdominal wall highly suspected of consisting of endometrial tissue were found during the investigation of the patient. These ones were removed in surgery and endometrial tissue secondary to previous cesarean section was confirmed after histological analysis. Consequently, although rare, if a painful mass in a surgical scar, such as a Pfannenstiel incision, is found in women of reproductive age with a history of obstetric surgery, the differential diagnosis shall include endometriosis. There is a portion of cases in which endometriosis recurs within five years following conservative surgery.

Long-Term Follow-Up Of Anti-Mullerian Hormone Levels After Laparoscopic Endometrioma Cystectomy

Objective: The study aims to evaluate long-term ovarian reserve change by serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level and determine the factors that affect the changes after laparoscopic endometrioma cystectomy. Methods: In a prospective longitudinal study, 104 patients with unilateral (n=77) and bilateral (n=27) endometrioma underwent laparoscopic endometrioma cystectomy. AMH levels were measured preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to determine factors related to AMH level changes. Results: Median preoperative AMH levels significantly declined from 3.77 ng/mL to 1.60 ng/mL (P<0.001), 1.66 ng/mL (P<0.001), 1.67 ng/mL (P<0.001), and 1.72 ng/mL (P<0.001) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, respectively. The rate of decrease in AMH was unchanged six months after surgery, 52.2%, 53.7%, 54.8% at 1, 3, 6 months, respectively, and declined to 43.2% at 12 months. Although most factors were associated with AMH level changes in monovariant linear regression, multivariant linear regression analysis showed only three factors that reached the statistical significance, including bilateral endometriomas, mean size of the endometrioma, and preoperative AMH levels. Conclusions: Serum AMH levels decline significantly after laparoscopic cystectomy of endometriomas but recovered at 12 months compared with the first 6 months with unilateral endometrioma. Bilateral endometriomas, size of the cyst, and preoperative AMH levels might independently affect AMH levels at 12 months after surgery.

Endometrioma surgery-a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect on antral follicle count and anti-Müllerian hormone

OBJECTIVE

Accurate preoperative counseling about whether an endometriotic cystectomy has a detrimental effect on the ovarian reserve has been a considerable challenge, because studies assessing the postoperative antral follicle counts and anti-Müllerian hormone levels have reported conflicting results. Our objective was to explore the impact of endometriotic cystectomy on both the anti-Müllerian hormone levels and antral follicle counts, with focus on prospective studies in which both variables were measured for each woman concurrently (overcoming unmeasured confounding), in the same setting (overcoming surgical technique differences), and at the same 3 postoperative time points, namely early (1-6 weeks), intermediate (2-6 months) and late (9-18 months), to overcome time-sensitive changes.

DATA SOURCES

Databases of PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EBSCO were searched between January 2000 and October 2020.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Only prospective cohort studies that evaluated the impact of endometriotic stripping cystectomy on anti-Müllerian hormone levels and antral follicle counts in the same women, at matching time points, and in the same setting were eligible.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS

Two authors performed the screening and data extraction independently.

RESULTS

A total of 14 prospectively designed studies were eligible for the meta-analysis and included 650 women. The included studies had a low risk of bias. The postoperative weighted mean differences in serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels dropped significantly when compared with the preoperative levels by an estimated 1.77 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, 0.77-2.77; P<.001), 1.17 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, 0.66-1.67; P<.001), and 2.13 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, 1.61-2.65; P<.001) at the early (1-6 weeks), intermediate (2-6 months), and late (9-18 months) time points, respectively. This corresponded to a mean reduction in serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels at each of the 3-time points of 44.4%, 35.1%, and 54.2%, respectively. Conversely, the postoperative weighted mean difference in the antral follicle count estimates did not change significantly at any of the 3 time points; the early antral follicle count was 0.70 (95% confidence interval, -2.71 to 3.56; P=.63), the intermediate count was -0.94 (95% confidence interval, -2.53 to 0.65; P=.25), and the late count was 2.58 (95% confidence interval, -0.43 to 5.58; P=.09). Overall, high levels of heterogeneity were encountered (I² ranging between 92% and 94% for the anti-Müllerian hormone levels and between 94% and 98% for the antral follicle counts at the 3 time points), which were attenuated when similar anti-Müllerian hormone assays were compared, and the meta-regression suggested that age did not contribute to heterogeneity.

CONCLUSION

Endometriotic cystectomies are associated with a significant reduction in the serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels but not in the antral follicle counts, with the detrimental effects on the anti-Müllerian hormone levels consistently detectable at the early-, intermediate-, and late-postoperative time points. In women with endometrioma, the anti-Müllerian hormone level may provide a more accurate assessment of the risk for iatrogenic depletion of the ovarian reserve.

Perioperative outcomes in a nationwide sample of patients undergoing surgical treatment of ovarian endometriomas

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the perioperative outcomes of premenopausal women undergoing cystectomy or oophorectomy for ovarian endometriomas (OMAs) and other benign neoplasms.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Clinical database containing information from 580 US hospitals.

PATIENT(S)

Women 18 to 50 years old who underwent ovarian cystectomy or oophorectomy for benign indications between 2010 and 2020.

INTERVENTION(S)

We compared procedure route, length of hospital stay, and complication rates by surgical indication (OMA vs. other benign neoplasms) and surgical procedure (cystectomy vs. oophorectomy).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Thirty-day perioperative adverse events following adnexal surgery, including conversion to laparotomy, blood transfusion, ileus, urinary tract injury, bowel injury, readmission, and death.

RESULT(S)

We identified 120,208 ovarian cystectomies (28,182 OMAs and 92,026 other indications) and 53,476 oophorectomies (8,622 OMAs and 44,854 other indications). During cystectomy, patients with OMAs more commonly experienced conversion to laparotomy (5.1% vs. 3.1%) and readmission (8.5% vs. 7.1%). For oophorectomies, patients with OMAs less frequently had minimally invasive surgery (55.8% vs. 64.8%) or outpatient procedures (33.8% vs. 41.8%). Urinary tract and bowel injuries were rare. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that the presence of OMA predicted composite complications during cystectomy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18-1.28) but not during oophorectomy (aOR 1.05, 95% CI 0.99-1.12). Patients with OMAs had 1.37 times the odds of a composite complication during oophorectomy than during cystectomy (95% CI 1.28-1.47).

CONCLUSION(S)

Patients undergoing ovarian cystectomy for OMAs had higher rates of perioperative adverse events than patients undergoing ovarian cystectomy for other benign neoplasms. Laparotomies were performed more often during oophorectomies for OMAs than for other benign indications.

Managing endometrioma to optimize future fertility

The management of endometriomas in women wishing to preserve their fertility is complex. While surgery can help to achieve pregnancy in some, it may also have a detrimental effect on a woman's ovarian reserve. The present article reviews the impact of endometriomas on fertility and the different management approaches that should be considered in women who wish to preserve their fertility. This study also reviews the role of assisted reproduction in the setting of endometriomas, and the evolving role of oocyte cryopreservation for this benign but progressive disease. Using evidence from the latest guidelines and major publications, we emphasize the need to consider the woman's future fertility when navigating the diverse range of management strategies available, and outline an evidence-based framework to help facilitate fertility-friendly discussion, counseling and management of this complex disease.

The Effect of Laparoscopic Endometrioma Surgery on Anti-Müllerian Hormone: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Meta-Analysis

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effect of endometrioma surgery on ovarian reserve by measuring anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis included observational studies and randomized clinical trials published in English referenced in MEDLINE, SCOPUS and Cochrane (1982-2019). We included studies that reported AMH levels in the pre and post-operative period of patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for endometrioma. Preoperative AMH was defined as the baseline AMH; short term AMH was measured no later than a month after surgery; medium term AMH was measured between one and six months after surgery; and long-term AMH was measured six or more months after surgery.

Results

Thirty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. A significant decrease was observed in short, medium and long-term post-operative AMH levels when compared with baseline AMH. However, there were no differences between short and long-term post-operative AMH levels, suggesting a non-significant recovery after one year of follow-up. A significant decrease in post-operative AMH was observed in bilateral endometriomas compared with unilateral cases. In addition, patients with endometriomas presented a significant decline in post-operative AMH compared with patients with other benign ovarian conditions. The decrease in post-operative AMH was significantly greater in bilateral cystectomy when compared with vaporization with bipolar energy or laser. We also observed a greater decrease in post-operative AMH with bipolar energy hemostasis compared with suture and hemostatic agents. These results should be taken with caution due to the high heterogeneity of the studies analyzed.

Conclusions

Endometrioma surgery has a deleterious effect on short, medium, and long-term post-operative AMH levels. Bilateral endometriomas and endometriomas greater than 7 cm have been associated with greater decreases in AMH. The mechanical resection of healthy tissue and the inflammatory damage on the ovarian cortex might explain the diminishing of ovarian reserve.

An international terminology for endometriosis, 2021. Hum Reprod Open 2021;2021:hoab029. [PMID: 34693033 PMCID: PMC8530702 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoab029]

STUDY QUESTION

Can a set of terms and definitions be prepared on endometriosis that would be the basis for standardization in disease description, classification and research?

SUMMARY ANSWER

The current paper outlines a list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Different classification systems have been developed for endometriosis, using different definitions for the disease, the different subtypes, symptoms and treatments. In addition, an International Glossary on Infertility and Fertility Care was published in 2017 by the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART) in collaboration with other organisations.

STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION

An international working group convened over the development of a classification or descriptive system for endometriosis. As a basis for such a system, a terminology for endometriosis was considered a condition sine qua non. The working group listed a number of terms relevant to be included in the terminology, documented currently used and published definitions, and discussed and adapted them until consensus was reached within the working group. Following stakeholder review, further terms were added, and definitions further clarified.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS

Although definitions were collected through published literature, the final set of terms and definitions is to be considered consensus-based. After finalization of the first draft, the members of the international societies and other stakeholders were consulted for feedback and comments, which led to further adaptations.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

A list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis is presented, including a definition for endometriosis and its subtypes, different locations, interventions, symptoms and outcomes. Endometriosis is defined as a disease characterized by the presence of endometrium-like epithelium and/or stroma outside the endometrium and myometrium, usually with an associated inflammatory process.

LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION

Future research may require further refinement of the presented definitions.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

The application of the defined terms aims to facilitate harmonization in endometriosis research and clinical practice.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

The meetings and activities of the working group were funded by the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, European Society for Gynecological Endoscopy, European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and World Endometriosis Society. A.W.H. reports grant funding from the MRC, NIHR, CSO, Wellbeing of Women, Roche Diagnostics, Astra Zeneca, Ferring, Charles Wolfson Charitable Trust, Standard Life, Consultancy fees from Roche Diagnostics, AbbVie, Nordic Pharma and Ferring, outside the submitted work. In addition, A.W.H. has a patent Serum biomarker for endometriosis pending. N.P.J. reports personal fees from Abbott, Guerbet, Myovant Sciences, Vifor Pharma, Roche Diagnostics outside the submitted work; he is also President of the World Endometriosis Society and chair of the trust board. S.M. reports grants and personal fees from AbbVie, and personal fees from Roche outside the submitted work. C.T. reports grants, non-financial support and other from Merck SA, non-financial support and other from Gedeon Richter, non-financial support from Ferring Pharmaceuticals, outside the submitted work and without private revenue. K.T.Z. reports grants from Bayer Healthcare, MDNA Life Sciences, Roche Diagnostics Inc, Volition Rx, outside the submitted work; she is also a Board member (Secretary) of the World Endometriosis Society and World Endometriosis Research Foundation, Research Advisory Board member of Wellbeing of Women, UK (research charity), and Chair, Research Directions Working Group, World Endometriosis Society. J.P reports personal fees from Hologic, Inc., outside the submitted work; he is also a member of the executive boards of ASRM and SRS. The other authors had nothing to disclose.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

Do techniques of surgical management of ovarian endometrioma affect ovarian reserve? A narrative review

Endometriotic ovarian cysts are one of the more common gynecological disorders found in reproductive-aged and infertile women. The aim of this review is to summarise information regarding the effect of surgical treatment of endometrioma on ovarian reserve. In women with endometrioma ovarian reserve is decreased compared to similarly aged healthy women and surgical management techniques cause an additional reduction. Evidence suggests that laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy via stripping is the preferable surgical technique for management of endometrioma, compared with excisional/ablative techniques, in the fields of pain improvement, spontaneous pregnancy rates, and ovarian cyst recurrences. Ablation techniques, combined technique and three-step approach demonstrate a less decline in anti-Müllerian hormone postoperatively. A successful operation involves not only removal of ovarian pathology, but also maintenance of ovarian function and future reproductive potential. Patients should be counselled about the risks of surgery and the management plan should be individualised to patient's symptoms and reproductive goals.

Ovarian function following use of various hemostatic techniques during treatment for unilateral endometrioma: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of hemostatic techniques (bipolar energy versus hemostatic sealants versus suture) on the ovarian reserve of patients submitted to laparoscopic cystectomy for the surgical excision of unilateral endometrioma.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial conducted in a teaching hospital included 84 patients with unilateral endometrioma. The patients underwent laparoscopic stripping for excision of the unilateral endometrioma between March 2018 and February 2020. Three different hemostatic techniques-bipolar energy (Group 1), hemostatic sealants (Group 2), and suture (Group 3)-were compared. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels were measured before, and 1 and 6 months after surgery to determine changes in ovarian function.

RESULTS

Following surgery, AMH levels decreased in all the groups; however, this decrease was not statistically significant. Comparison between groups showed no statistically significant differences in AMH levels between the three hemostatic techniques used. Six months after surgery, median AMH levels were: 1.65 ng/mL (interquartile range [IQR] 0.62-2.08 ng/mL) in Group 1, 1.87 ng/mL (IQR 1.27-2.97 ng/mL) in Group 2, and 1.53 ng/mL (IQR 1.18-2.44 ng/mL) in Group 3.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggests that there is no difference between the different hemostatic techniques used in laparoscopic cystectomy for the treatment of unilateral endometriomas. Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03430609. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03430609.

Mapping of endometriosis in patients with unilateral endometrioma

To map the distribution of the sites most affected by endometriosis in patients with unilateral ovarian endometriomas.A descriptive case series of 84 patients with unilateral endometriomas undergoing laparoscopy for the treatment of endometriosis. To evaluate the distribution of the sites of endometriosis lesions, the peritoneal compartments were divided into 5 zones: zone 1/the anterior compartment, including the anterior uterine serosa, vesicouterine fold, round ligament, and bladder; zone 2/the lateral compartment, including the left and right ovary, ovarian fossa, tubes, mesosalpinx, uterosacral ligaments, parametrium, and the ureter; zone 3/the posterior compartment, including posterior uterine serosa, the pouch of Douglas, posterior vaginal fornix, and bowel; zone 4 consisting of the abdominal wall; and zone 5 consisting of the diaphragm.Of the 5 zones evaluated, the lateral compartment (zone 2) was the most affected, with 60.7% of the patients having dense adhesions around the left ovarian fossa and 57.1% around the right ovarian fossa. The ovarian endometriomas were more commonly found on the left side (54.8%) compared to the right (45.2%). In the posterior compartment (zone 3), the posterior cul-de-sac was obliterated in 51.2% of the patients. In the anterior compartment (zone 1), there were lesions in the vesicouterine fold in 30.9% of the patients and in the bladder in 19%. Lesions were found in the abdominal wall (zone 4) and diaphragm (zone 5) in 21.4% and 10.7% of patients, respectively.Unilateral endometriomas are important markers of the severity of endometriosis.