Surgical outcome and long-term follow up after laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis

Sexual function in women undergoing surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis: a comparison with healthy women

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a chronic and progressive condition of women of reproductive age. It is strongly associated with significant impairment of sexual function.

AIM

To objectively evaluate the impact of laparoscopic excision of endometriosis on sexual function in patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) compared to healthy women.

SETTING AND DESIGN

Prospective study, including 250 patients with a diagnosis of DIE scheduled for laparoscopic surgery and 250 healthy women.

METHODS

A sexual activity questionnaire, SHOW-Q (Sexual Health Outcomes in Women Questionnaire), was used to collect data pertaining to women's satisfaction, orgasm, desire and pelvic problem interference with sexual function. Women with DIE underwent complete excision of endometriotic lesions. All participants were asked to complete the SHOW-Q questionnaire before and after surgery.

RESULTS

SHOW-Q scores in the endometriosis group before and 6 months after surgery were compared with the healthy group scores. A significant improvement was found between pre- and post-treatment in the scores of the satisfaction scale, desire scale and pelvic problem interference scale of SHOW-Q. The distribution of post-surgery SHOW-Q scores was comparable to healthy women's scores apart from the orgasm scale score, which was unchanged in the post-surgery group.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical approach to treatment has a positive impact not only on organ impairment but also on sexual function in women affected by DIE.

Clear cell thymic carcinoma: a case report

Clear cell thymic carcinoma is a rare and invasive tumor of the mediastinum for which there are no uniform treatment guidelines. The combination of carboplatin plus paclitaxel seems to be the most effective regimen for this disease. We report a case of locally advanced clear cell thymic carcinoma treated with this schedule, in which we observed a relevant and rapid tumor shrinkage.

Laparoscopic treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis: results of the combined laparoscopic gynecologic and colorectal surgery

BACKGROUND

The short-term results of a retrospective consecutive series of multidisciplinary laparoscopic approach to deep infiltrating endometriosis with intestinal involvement requiring segmental bowel resection procedures are presented.

METHODS

Patients with radiologically or intraoperative-confirmed endometriosis, who underwent a combined laparoscopic segmental bowel resection by a team of gynecologists and colorectal surgeons, were retrospectively reviewed. The postoperative data were collected in a specific database and analyzed for short-term (30 days) postoperative outcomes with the comparison between two specimen's extraction methods.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients (median age of 36 years, range 25-44) have been operated by a combined team of gynecologist and colorectal surgeons. The median operative time was 247.5 min (range 155-375), and median estimated blood loss was 300 ml (range 100-1300). In 20 patients, the surgical specimens were extracted transvaginally, while in 21 cases, a sovrapubic transverse Pfannenstiel minilaparotomy was used. No intraoperative complications or conversion to laparotomy were reported. An acceptable cumulative rate of postoperative morbidity was observed (6/41, 15 %), without any postoperative deaths. Comparing the two subgroups of patients with different modalities of specimen retrieval, postoperative pain (assessed by visual analog scale) was significantly reduced in the transvaginal extraction group (median: 1 and range: 0-2 vs median: 3, 5 and range: 1-6; p = 0.002), without any statistically significant differences in terms of complications.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic bowel segmental resection combined with gynecologic surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis with intestinal involvement is a valid treatment option with a low rate of postoperative complications. Transvaginal specimen extraction allows the same results of minilaparotomic incision, minimizing surgical trauma and warranting a clear benefit in terms of reduction of postoperative pain.

Long-term symptoms, quality of life, and fertility after colorectal resection for endometriosis: extended analysis of a randomized controlled trial comparing laparoscopically assisted to open surgery

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the long-term symptoms, quality of life (QOL), and fertility after colorectal resection for endometriosis.

METHODS

Extended analysis of a randomized controlled trial including 52 patients with colorectal endometriosis, comparing laparoscopically assisted to open colorectal resection. All included patients were invited to complete questionnaires evaluating the presence and intensity of symptoms and QOL using the SF-36 and fertility at a mean (SD) follow-up of 50.7 (13.8) months. We compared symptoms intensity and QOL before and after surgery at short- (mean follow-up of 19 months) and long-term (mean follow-up of 51 months).

RESULTS

Persistent improvement in QOL was noted after surgery without differences between short and long term. Self-catheterization >6 months was the sole factor decreasing the long-term QOL (P = 0.02). No difference in symptoms and QOL was noted according to the route. Among the 28 patients (53.8%) wishing to conceive, 12 (42.9%) conceived within a mean (SD) time of 17 (13) months. No difference in fertility including pregnancy after IVF was noted between the routes, but spontaneous pregnancy occurred only after laparoscopy (P = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Symptoms and QOL improvements after colorectal resection last for over 4 years without difference between the routes. Thank to a lower intra- and postoperative complications and higher spontaneous pregnancy rate, laparoscopic colorectal resection should be the first surgical approach.

Systematic review of endometriosis pain assessment: how to choose a scale?

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies concerning endometriosis and pain have been reported. However, there is no consensus on the best method to evaluate pain in endometriosis and many scales have been used. Moreover, there are only a few descriptions of minimal clinically important differences after treatment (MCID) to evaluate variations in pain. In our study, we aim to identify pain scales used in endometriosis pain treatment, to address their strong and weak points and to define which would be the ideal scale to help clinicians and researchers to evaluate endometriosis-related pain.

METHODS

A search of the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was carried out for publications in English, French or Portuguese from 1980 to December 2012, for the words: endometriosis, treatment, pain. Studies were selected if they studied an endometriosis treatment and a pain scale was specified. A quantitative and a qualitative analysis of each scale was performed to define strong and weak points of each scale (systematic registration number: CRD42013005336).

RESULTS

A total of 736 publications were identified. After excluding duplications and applying inclusion criteria 258 studies remained. We found that the visual analog scale (VAS) is the most frequently used scale. Both VAS and the numerical rating scale (NRS) show a good balance between strong and weak points in comparison with others such as the Biberoglu and Behrman scale. Concerning MCID, only VAS, NRS and Brief Pain Inventory scales have reported MCID and, among these, only VAS MCID has been studied in endometriosis patients (VAS MCID = 10 mm). Adding the Clinical Global Impression score (CGI) to the pain scale allows calculation of the MCID.

CONCLUSIONS

When using pain scales their strengths and weaknesses must be known and included in the analysis. VAS is the most frequently used pain scale and, together with NRS, seems the best adapted for endometriosis pain measurement. The use of VAS or NRS for each type of typical pain related to endometriosis (dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia and non-menstrual chronic pelvic pain), combined with the CGI and a quality-of-life scale will provide both clinicians and researchers with tools to evaluate treatment response.

Feasibility and first long-term results after laparoscopic rectal segment resection and vaginal specimen retrieval for deep infiltrating endometriosis

INTRODUCTION

Radical resection of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE), including bladder and bowel resection, provides relief from pain in symptomatic patients. The laparoscopic approach to treatment is well established for bowel resection but normally requires additional abdominal incisions for specimen retrieval. Here we describe our technique of laparoscopically assisted rectal resection and transvaginal specimen retrieval (LARRT) and provide follow-up information on pain scores and complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective observational monocentric study on all DIE patients with rectal infiltration treated between 2008 and 2010 with LATRR at our department. Follow-up was obtained for at least 3 years, including baseline 1-year and 3-year pain scores.

RESULTS

We identified four patients undergoing LARRT available for follow-up. DIE was confirmed by histology in all cases. There were no intraoperative complications. Two patients had transient postoperative urinary retention, one patient developed recto-vaginal fistula and required transient colostomy. One patient suffered from persistent vaginal dryness. All patients, however, reported persistent pain relief, including at the end of follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

LARRT is a feasible variation of laparoscopic bowel resection for DIE with rectal infiltration. In our study it has promising results with respect to pain control. Larger studies will, however, be required to determine the safety of this procedure.

The Impact of Socioeconomic and Anamnestic Characteristics on Quality of Life and Sexual Function in Women with Endometriosis

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of sociodemographic and anamnestic characteristics of women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) on the quality of life and sexual function.

Methods

It is a prospective cohort study including 200 women with pre-operative clinical and ultrasound diagnosis of DIE. They completed a pre-operative questionnaire regarding sociodemographic and anamnestic characteristics, a sexual activity questionnaire (Sexual Health Outcomes in Women Questionnaire [SHOW-Q]) and a quality of life questionnaire (Short Form-36 Health Survey [SF-36]).

Results

The mean values obtained for the SF-36 (50.7 ± 21.1) and SHOW-Q (56.4 ± 21.1) questionnaire showed an impairment of quality of life and sexual function. Women with a history of previous surgery had significantly lower scores of SF-36 and SHOW-Q questionnaires than women without (p< 0.05). The increase of body mass index (BMI) was positively correlated with an improvement of sexual function (p = 0.008). Postsecondary education was significantly associated with a better quality of life (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with DIE have an impairment of quality of life and sexual function. Educational level, BMI and previous surgery may influence quality of life and sexual function of women affected by DIE.

Quality of life and sexual function 1 year after laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection for endometriosis

AIM

Endometriosis is relatively common condition in fertile women and may affect the alimentary tract. Laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection for endometriosis has been found to be both feasible and safe. The aim of the present study was to prospectively evaluate the quality of life and sexual function of patients who have undergone rectosigmoid resection for endometriosis.

METHOD

All patients undergoing rectal or sigmoid resection for endometriosis in two specialist hospitals were prospectively recruited in the study. Details regarding demography, endometriosis-related symptoms, procedure and postoperative recovery were collected. One year after the operation patients were sent a postal questionnaire asking about endometriosis-related symptoms, quality of life and sexual functioning. The 15D Questionnaire and McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire were used for this purpose.

RESULTS

A total of 26 patients responded to the 15D questionnaire. Endometriosis-related bowel symptoms decreased significantly after the operation. The responses showed improvements in the overall score and scores for five different dimensions (usual activities, P = 0.04; discomfort and symptoms, P < 0.001; distress, P < 0.001; vitality, P < 0.001; sexual activity, P < 0.001). Sexual satisfaction was greater 1 year after the operation (P = 0.01). Sexual problems and partner satisfaction scores had not changed significantly.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic rectal and sigmoid resection for endometriosis significantly reduce endometriosis-related symptoms and improve quality of life and sexual well-being.

Clinical outcome after laparoscopic radical excision of endometriosis and laparoscopic segmental bowel resection

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To present the clinical outcome after laparoscopic radical excision of deeply infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) with colorectal extension and laparoscopic segmental bowel resection.

RECENT FINDINGS

In three different studies including mostly patients with recurrent DIE with colorectal extension, we showed that radical reconstructive CO2 laser laparoscopic resection of DIE with colorectal extension in a multidisciplinary setting resulted in a low complication rate, a low cumulative reintervention and recurrence rate and a high cumulative pregnancy rate, also when bowel resection reanastomosis was performed. In a systematic review to assess the clinical outcome of surgical treatment of DIE with colorectal involvement, data were reported in such a way that comparison of different surgical techniques was not possible. A checklist is proposed to achieve standardized reporting of presenting symptoms, preoperative tests, inclusion criteria, preoperative and postoperative care, complications, follow-up, patient-centered assessment of pain and quality of life, fertility and recurrence corrected for postoperative use of hormonal suppression or infertility treatment.

SUMMARY

CO2 laser laparoscopic radical excision of DIE with colorectal extension and laparoscopic segmental bowel resection in centers of expertise is associated with good clinical outcome. To make real progress, international agreement is needed on terms and definitions used in surgical endometriosis research.

Effects of Surgical Excision of Endometriosis regarding Quality of Life and Psychological Well-Being: A Review

The aim of the present work is to give a critical and detailed reflection on the effects of surgical resection of deep infiltrating endometriosis regarding reduction of symptoms, psychological well-being and quality of life. The current evidence strongly supports the effectiveness of radical laparoscopic resection in relieving endometriosis-associated symptoms and enhancing psychological well-being. In addition, studies suggest a general improvement of quality of life, however, further studies are needed to support this observation.

Segmental bowel resection for colorectal endometriosis: is there a correlation between histological pattern and clinical outcomes?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic segmental resection as a treatment for intestinal endometriosis can be supported by favorable clinical outcomes, but carries a high risk of major complications. The purpose of this study is to evaluate histopathological patterns of colorectal endometriosis and investigate potential relationships between histological findings and clinical data.

METHODS

We consecutively included 47 patients treated with laparoscopic segmental resection because of symptomatic colorectal endometriosis. All patients underwent follow-up for a median of 18 months (range: 6-35). We examined the histological patterns of colorectal endometriosis and evaluated the relationships between histological findings (satellite lesions, positive margins and vertical infiltration) and clinical outcomes (incidence of recurrence, quality of life and symptom improvement). Moreover, we observed if satellite lesions could influence preoperative scores of the short form-36 health survey (SF-36) questionnaire and visual analogue score (VAS) for pain symptoms.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in terms of anatomical and pain recurrences, pain symptoms and quality of life improvement among patients with or without positive margins, satellite lesions and different degrees of vertical infiltration (P > 0.05). Furthermore, women with or without satellite lesions were no different in terms of preoperative VAS of pain symptoms and SF-36 scores (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of satellite lesions or positive resection margins does not seem to influence clinical outcomes of segmental colorectal resection. Similarly, satellite lesions do not appear to have a major role in determining preoperative clinical presentation. These results may be useful to reconsider the surgical strategy for bowel endometriosis.

Nerve-sparing laparoscopic eradication of deep endometriosis with segmental rectal and parametrial resection: the Negrar method. A single-center, prospective, clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The weight of surgical radicality, together with a lack of anatomical theoretical basis for surgery and inappropriate practical skills, can lead to serious impairments to bladder, rectal, and sexual functions after laparoscopic excision of deep infiltrating endometriosis. Although the "classical" laparoscopic technique for endometriosis excision involving segmental bowel resection has proven to relieve symptoms successfully, it is hampered by several postoperative long-term and/or definitive pelvic dysfunctions.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, we compare the laparoscopic nerve-sparing approach to the classical laparoscopic procedure in a series of 126 cases. Satisfactory data for bowel, bladder, and sexual function were considered as primary endpoints.

RESULTS

A total of 126 patients were considered for analysis: 61 treated with nerve-sparing radical excision of pelvic endometriosis with segmental bowel resection (group B), and 65 treated with the classical technique (group A). Intraoperative, perioperative, and postoperative complications were similar between the two groups. Mean days of self-catheterization were significantly lower in the nerve-sparing group (39.8 days) compared with the non-nerve-sparing group (121.1 days; p < 0.001). The relapse rate within 12 months after surgery was comparable between the two groups. Patients of group A suffered from urinary retention more frequently between 1 and 6 months (p = 0.035) compared with group B and did not experience any improvement between 6 months and 1 year (p = 0.018). Overall detection of severe bladder/rectal/sexual dysfunctions was significantly different between the two groups, and 56 patients of group A (86.2%) reported a significantly higher rate of severe neurologic pelvic dysfunctions vs. 1 patient (1.6%) of group B (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our technique appears to be feasible and offers good results in terms of reduced bladder morbidity and apparently higher satisfaction than the classical technique. Considering that this kind of surgery requires uncommon surgical skills and anatomical knowledge, we believe that it should be performed only in selected reference centers.

The treatment of rectal endometriosis and the role of laparoscopic surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Rectal endometriosis is a very indolent disease whose treatment has been debated by a range of competing schools. Meanwhile, not all audiences in the scientific community are entirely familiar with the full aspects of the disease. Hence, the purpose of this review is to outline the basic as well as the recent literature pertaining to the disease, thus offering a broader view to the interested reader.

RECENT FINDINGS

Laparoscopic shaving or disc excision for rectal endometriotic nodules may be simple, safe options of controlling the disease. On the contrary, laparoscopic rectal resections, originally reserved for more extensive disease, are now more skillfully mastered by surgeons and gynecologists. Meta-analyses, retrospective, and prospective studies are being published frequently supporting one form of therapy at a time and discrediting another at other times.

SUMMARY

Laparoscopic shaving or disc excisions for rectal endometriotic foci or rectal resections are feasible and efficient methods for treating rectal endometriosis. More complex surgery to the bowel means more risk for complications. With the rising learning curve of the operators, laparoscopic rectal resections have become a safe option that should be offered to patients. The patient's preference to a particular treatment option should be central to the type of surgery to be elected.

[Laparoscopic colorectal resection for deep pelvic endometriosis: Evaluation of post-operative outcome]

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of mid-term functional results and the quality of life after laparoscopic colorectal resection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-three consecutive patients were included in a retrospective monocentric study. Postoperative functional outcomes and quality of life were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median follow-up after colorectal resection was of 24±15.7 months (6-72). Major complications occurred in three cases (12,9%) including one anastomotic stenosis, one digestive and one bladder fistula. A significant improvement in pelvic pain symptoms was observed. De novo constipation and pain on defecation occurred in respectively 23% and 42% of the cases. Transient de novo dysuria occurred in 18% of the cases. The quality of life has been significantly improved.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colorectal resection is associated with unfavourable postoperative digestive and urological outcomes, such as bladder and rectal dysfunction. Radical treatment should be limited to selected patients.

Does laparoscopic management of deep infiltrating endometriosis improve quality of life? A prospective study

Background

Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) can affect importantly patients' quality of life (QOL). The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the laparoscopic management of DIE on QOL after six months from treatment.

Methods

It is a prospective cohort study. In a tertiary care university hospital, between April 2008 and December 2009, 100 patients underwent laparoscopic management of DIE and completed preoperatively and 6-months postoperatively a QOL questionnaire, the short form 36 (SF-36).

Quality of life was measured through the SF-36 scores. Intra-operative details of disease site, number of lesions, type of intervention, period of hospital stay and peri-operative complications were noted.

Results

Six months postoperatively all the women had a significant improvement in every scale of the SF-36 (p < 0,0005). Among patients with intestinal DIE, significant differences in postoperative scores of SF-36 were not detected between patients submitted to nodule shaving and segmental resection (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the SF-36 scores at 6 months from surgery between patients who received postoperative medical treatment and patients who did not (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic excision of DIE lesions significantly improves general health and psycho-emotional status at six months from surgery without differences between patients submitted to intestinal segmental resection or intestinal nodule shaving.

Comparison of laparoscopic anterior discoid resection and laparoscopic low anterior resection of deep infiltrating rectosigmoid endometriosis

Anterior discoid resection is associated with a shorter operative time, lower blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and lower rate of anastomotic strictures than laparoscopic anterior resection is in the treatment of rectal endometriosis.

Objective:

To compare laparoscopic anterior discoid resection (ADR) with low anterior resection (LAR).

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of a cohort (Canadian Task Force classification II-2) of patients undergoing laparoscopic ADR or LAR at a university hospital. Chart review and telephone questionnaires were conducted to examine long-term outcomes. Preoperative and operative findings, short- and long-term outcomes were compared. SF-12 quality of life scores, need for further interventions, and overall satisfaction were also compared.

Results:

Twenty-two patients underwent laparoscopic ADR (n=8) or LAR (n=14) for rectosigmoid endometriosis between January 2001 and December 2009. Mean follow-up time was 41.26 months (range, 14 to 70). Patients undergoing laparoscopic ADR had significantly less blood loss and shorter operative time and hospital stay. Patients who required LAR had a significantly higher rate of mucosal involvement (61.5% v. 0%). No statistically significant difference was found in the size, depth of invasion, location of lesions, or operative complications. Fifty percent of the LAR group had several lesions as opposed to 12.5% of the ADR group. Median age was significantly higher in patients who required LAR (39) than in patients who required ADR (32). Three patients in the LAR group (21.4%) had anastomotic strictures; 2 required dilation. The ADR group had consistently higher increments of improvement in bowel symptoms and dyspareunia. Overall satisfaction rate with the procedures was 93.3%. SF-12 scores were comparable between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

ADR compared with LAR is associated with decreased operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay and a lower rate of anastomotic strictures. Other outcomes and satisfaction rates are comparable between the 2 procedures.

Multidetector computerized tomography enteroclysis vs. rectal water contrast transvaginal ultrasonography in determining the presence and extent of bowel endometriosis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the accuracy of multidetector computerized tomography enteroclysis (MDCT-e) and rectal water contrast transvaginal ultrasonography (RWC-TVS) in determining the presence and extent of bowel endometriosis.

METHODS

This prospective study included 96 patients of reproductive age with suspicion of bowel endometriosis. Patients underwent MDCT-e and RWC-TVS before operative laparoscopy. Findings of MDCT-e and RWC-TVS were compared with histological results. The severity of pain experienced during MDCT-e and RWC-TVS was measured by a 10-cm visual analog scale.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients had bowel endometriotic nodules at surgery. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy for the diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis were 95.8% (46/48), 100.0% (48/48), 100.0% (46/46), 96.0% (48/50) and 97.9% (94/96) for MDCT-e and 93.8% (45/48), 97.9% (47/48), 97.8% (45/46), 94.0% (47/50) and 95.8% (92/96) for RWC-TVS. MDCT-e was associated with more intense pain than was RWC-TVS.

CONCLUSIONS

MDCT-e and RWC-TVS have similar accuracy in the diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis, but patients tolerate RWC-TVS better than they do MDCT-e.

Bowel endometriosis: Recent insights and unsolved problems

Bowel endometriosis affects between 3.8% and 37% of women with endometriosis. The evaluation of symptoms and clinical examination are inadequate for an accurate diagnosis of intestinal endometriosis. Transvaginal ultrasonography is the first line investigation in patients with suspected bowel endometriosis and allows accurate determination of the presence of the disease. Radiological techniques (such as magnetic resonance imaging and multidetector computerized tomography enteroclysis) are useful for estimating the extent of bowel endometriosis. Hormonal therapies (progestins, gonadotropin releasing hormone analogues and aromatase inhibitors) significantly improve pain and intestinal symptoms in patients with bowel stenosis less than 60% and who do not wish to conceive. However, hormonal therapies may not prevent the progression of bowel endometriosis and, therefore, patients receiving long-term treatment should be periodically monitored. Surgical excision of bowel endometriosis should be offered to symptomatic patients with bowel stenosis greater than 60%. Intestinal endometriotic nodules may be excised by nodulectomy or segmental resection. Both surgical procedures improve pain, intestinal symptoms and fertility. Nodulectomy may be associated with a lower rate of complications.

Follow-up of dysfunctional bladder and rectum after surgery of a deep infiltrating rectovaginal endometriosis

PURPOSE

The radical surgery of the deep infiltrating endometriosis of the rectovaginal septum and the uterosacral ligaments with or without bowel resection can cause a serious damage of the pelvic autonomic nerves with urinary retention and the need of self-catheterization. Major goal of this review article is to compare different surgical techniques of deep infiltrating endometriosis and their follow-up results.

METHODS

The research strategy included the online search of databases [MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS] for the diagnosis of deep infiltrating endometriosis with the indication of an operative resection. The outcome of the follow-up terms were noticed and compared.

RESULTS

All in all, 16 trials could be identified with included follow-up. In all patients at least single-sided resection of the uterosacral ligaments were performed. Follow-up was heterogeneous in all trials ranging from 1 to 92 months. Postoperative symptoms, such as dysmenorrhoea, pelvic pain, and dyspareunia were commonly described in the majority of trials. Nevertheless, a tendency towards lower comorbidity after nerve sparing resection of endometriosis could be observed.

CONCLUSION

Identification of the inferior hypogastric nerve and plexus was feasible in the minority of trials. In comparison with non-nerve-sparing surgical technique, no cases of bladder self-catheterization for a long or even life time was observed, confirming the importance of the nerve-sparing surgical procedure.

Laparoscopic excision of rectovaginal endometriosis: report of a prospective study and review of the literature

AIM

The surgical management of rectovaginal endometriosis is challenging. We present our experience of the laparoscopic management of these difficult cases, together with a review of the current literature.

METHOD

A prospective database was established for all patients undergoing surgery for Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE) with rectovaginal and/or ureteric and bladder nodules. Outcomes analysed include operation performed, conversion and complication rates, and length of stay. These outcomes were compared with other laparoscopic rectal resections for alternative diagnoses recorded in the database and with outcomes seen in a literature review of studies on the surgical management of endometriosis.

RESULTS

Between April 2004 and November 2007, 54 patients underwent laparoscopic excision of rectovaginal endometriosis by a combined colorectal and gynaecological surgical team. Out of the 54 patients, 37% of patients underwent a rectal wall shave, 13% had a disc excision of the rectal wall, and 50% underwent segmental resection. There was a conversion rate of 4%, median duration of stay was 3 days, with 2% requiring transfusion. Major complications occurred in 7% of patients, with 4% requiring reoperation. Patients undergoing segmental resection for endometriosis had a higher complication rate than those having surgery for other diagnoses. There was an increased incidence of anastomotic stenosis, with histopathological results suggesting that the disease process might have contributed to this occurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic resection of rectovaginal endometriosis may be associated with a higher incidence of complications than resections performed for other diagnoses.

Bowel resection for deep endometriosis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

deep endometriosis involving the bowel often is treated by segmental bowel resection. In a recent review of over 10000 segmental bowel resections for indications other than endometriosis, low rectum resections, in particular, were associated with a high long-term complication rate for bladder, bowel and sexual function.

OBJECTIVES

to review systematically segmental bowel resections for endometriosis for indications, outcome and complications according to the level of resection and the volume of the nodule.

SEARCH STRATEGY

all published articles on segmental bowel resection for endometriosis identified through MEDLINE, EMBASE and ISI Web of Knowledge databases during 1997-2009.

SELECTION CRITERIA

the terms 'bowel', 'rectal', 'colorectal', 'rectovaginal', 'rectosigmoid', 'resection' and 'endometriosis' were used. Articles describing more than five bowel resections for endometriosis, and with details of at least three of the relevant endpoints.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

data did not permit a meaningful meta-analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

thirty-four articles were found describing 1889 bowel resections. The level of bowel resection and the size of the lesions were poorly reported. The indications to perform a bowel resection were variable and were rarely described accurately. The duration of surgery varied widely and endometriosis was not always confirmed by pathology. Although not recorded prospectively, pain relief was systematically reported as excellent for the first year after surgery. Recurrence of pain was reported in 45 of 189 women; recurrence requiring reintervention occurred in 61 of 314 women. Recurrence of endometriosis was reported in 37 of 267 women. The complication rate was comparable with that of bowel resection for indications other than endometriosis. Data on sexual function were not found.

CONCLUSIONS

after a systematic review, it was found that the indication to perform a segmental resection was poorly documented and the data did not permit an analysis of indication and outcome according to localisation or diameter of the endometriotic nodule. Segmental resections were rectum resections in over 90%, and the postoperative complication rate was comparable with that of resections for indications other than endometriosis. No data were found evaluating sexual dysfunction.

94 months follow-up after laparoscopic assisted vaginal resection of septum rectovaginale and rectosigmoid in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis with bowel involvement is the most invasive form and can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain and bowel symptoms. Effective surgical treatment of endometriosis requires complete excision of endometriosis and in same case may require segmental rectosigmoid resection.

METHODS

Between December 1997 and October 2003, 55 patients with rectovaginal endometriosis underwent a combined laparoscopic vaginal technique. 30 patients were found at a follow-up and underwent a telephone interview. The questionnaire covered questions about symptoms related to recurrences of intestinal endometriosis, dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea and pregnancy.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven of 30 (90%) women have no clinical symptoms of reported recurrence of endometriosis. Two patients (6.6%) had evidence of recurrence of bowel endometriosis. Dysmenorrhoea disappeared in 28 (93.3%), dyspareunia in 26 (86.7%) and pelvic pain in 27 (90%) patients. 17 patients (31%) tried to become pregnant and 11 of these patients (65%) became pregnant: 9 patients delivered healthy newborns, 18 pregnancies occurred and 19 healthy children were born.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the small number of follow-up patients, our 94-month follow-up data demonstrated that endometriosis with bowel involvement and radical resection was associated with significant reductions in painful and dysfunctional symptoms, a low recurrence rate (6.6%) and high pregnancy rate (36.6%).

Letrozole and norethisterone acetate in colorectal endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

Up to now limited attention has been given to the medical treatment of bowel endometriosis. This study evaluates the efficacy of aromatase inhibitors and norethisterone acetate in treating pain and gastrointestinal symptoms caused by bowel endometriosis.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective pilot study included six women with colorectal endometriosis; all women had intestinal nodules infiltrating at least the muscularis propria of the bowel and did not have a stenosis of the bowel lumen >60%; the patients suffered from pain and intestinal symptoms. The study subjects received letrozole (2.5 mg/day) and norethisterone acetate (2.5 mg/day) continuously for 6 months. The presence and intensity of symptoms were evaluated before starting the treatment, and after 3 and 6 months of treatment.

RESULTS

The double-drug regimen improved pain, non-menstrual pelvic pain, deep dyspareunia, dyschezia, symptoms mimicking diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal cramping, abdominal bloating and passage of mucus in the stools, and 67% of the patients declared that the treatment improved their gastrointestinal symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of letrozole and norethisterone acetate reduces pain and gastrointestinal symptoms of women with colorectal endometriosis, particularly when patients suffer from symptoms mimicking diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.

Acoustic streaming cannot discriminate reliably between endometriomas and other types of adnexal lesion: a multicenter study of 633 adnexal masses

OBJECTIVE

To determine the ability of acoustic streaming to discriminate between endometriomas and other adnexal masses.

METHODS

We used data from 1938 patients with an adnexal mass included in Phase 2 of the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) study. All patients had been examined by transvaginal gray-scale and Doppler ultrasound following a standardized research protocol. Assessment of acoustic streaming was voluntary and was carried out only in lesions containing echogenic cyst fluid. Acoustic streaming was defined as movement of particles inside the cyst fluid during gray-scale and/or color Doppler examination provided that the probe had been held still for two seconds to ensure that the movement of the particles was not caused by movement of the probe or the patient. Only centers where acoustic streaming had been evaluated in > 90% of cases were included. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+, LR-), and positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) of acoustic streaming with regard to endometrioma were calculated.

RESULTS

460 (24%) masses were excluded because they were examined in centers where </= 90% of the masses with echogenic cyst fluid had been evaluated for the presence of acoustic streaming. Acoustic streaming was evaluated in 633 of 646 lesions containing echogenic cyst fluid. It was present in 19 (9%) of 209 endometriomas and in 55 (13%) of 424 other lesions. This corresponds to a sensitivity of absent acoustic streaming with regard to endometrioma of 91% (190/209), a specificity of 13% (55/424), LR+ of 1.04, LR- of 0.69, PPV of 34% (190/559) and NPV of 74% (55/74).

CONCLUSIONS

Acoustic streaming cannot discriminate reliably between endometriomas and other adnexal lesions, and the presence of acoustic streaming does not exclude an endometrioma.

A multidisciplinary, minimally invasive approach for complicated deep infiltrating endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To present a case of complicated deep infiltrating endometriosis managed by a multidisciplinary minimally invasive approach.

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTING

Tertiary care university hospital.

PATIENT

A 32-year-old woman with deep infiltrating endometriosis involving the rectovaginal septum, the rectum, and the left ureter, complicated by silent left renal function loss.

INTERVENTION(S)

Laparoscopic left nephrectomy, ureterectomy, excision of a left ovarian endometrioma, removal of a large rectovaginal nodule, and segmental bowel resection with minilaparotomic end-to-end anastomosis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Multidisciplinary diagnosis and minimally invasive surgical approach to deep infiltrating endometriosis involving the rectum and the urinary tract.

RESULT(S)

Collaboration between gynecologists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons enabled a successful management of the case in one surgical intervention providing minor risk of complications, shorter hospital stay, and faster functional recovery.

CONCLUSION(S)

Deep infiltrating endometriosis is a global pathology that may involve different structures. A multidisciplinary, minimally invasive approach should be recommended to achieve appropriate disease management.

Norethisterone acetate in the treatment of colorectal endometriosis: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

This pilot study evaluates the efficacy of norethisterone acetate in treating pain and gastrointestinal symptoms of women with colorectal endometriosis.

METHODS

This prospective study included 40 women with colorectal endometriosis, who had pain and gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients received norethisterone acetate (2.5 mg/day) for 12 months; in case of breakthrough bleeding, the dose of norethisterone acetate was increased by 2.5 mg/day. The degree of patient satisfaction with treatment (primary end-point) and the changes in symptoms (secondary end-point) were evaluated. Side effects of treatment were recorded.

RESULTS

Norethisterone acetate determined a significant improvement in the intensity of chronic pelvic pain, deep dyspareunia, dyschezia. Treatment determined the disappearance of symptoms related to the menstrual cycle (dysmenorrhea, constipation during the menstrual cycle, diarrhoea during the menstrual cycle and cyclical rectal bleeding). The severity of diarrhoea, intestinal cramping and passage of mucus significantly improved during treatment. On the contrary, the administration of norethisterone acetate did not determine a significant effect on constipation, abdominal bloating and feeling of incomplete evacuation after bowel movements. At the completion of treatment, 57% of the patients with diarrhoea or diarrhoea during the menstrual cycle continued the treatment with norethisterone acetate compared with 17% of the patients with constipation or constipation during the menstrual cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

In some patients with bowel endometriosis, the administration of norethisterone acetate may determine a relief of pain and gastrointestinal symptoms. This therapy has greater benefits in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, diarrhoea and intestinal cramping.

Transvaginal-laparoscopic anterior rectum resection in a hysterectomized woman with deep-infiltrating endometriosis: Description of a gynecologic natural orifice transendoluminal surgery approach

Deep-infiltrating endometriosis may affect the vagina, the rectum, and the cervicoisthmic part of the uterus, resulting in severe pain, particularly dyschezia, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and diminished quality of life. Advanced surgical techniques, such as laparoscopic-assisted anterior rectum resection, are recognized as safe and effective therapeutic approaches. In some cases, a laparotomy or minilaparotomy has to be performed for technical reasons. This can be avoided in some cases by transvaginal-laparoscopic low anterior rectum resection. The technique is a 4-step procedure, which can be described as follows: step 1 (vaginal) - rectovaginal examination, preparation of the rectovaginal septum, opening of the pouch of Douglas, mobilization of the endometriotic nodule and the rectum, temporary vaginal closure; step 2 (laparoscopic) - removal of additional endometriotic lesions, adhesiolysis, final mobilization of the rectum, mobilization of the rectosigmoid, endoscopic resection using an endoscopic stapler step 3 (vaginal) - transvaginal resection of the lesion, preparation of the oral anvil, closure of the vagina; and step 4 (laparoscopic) - endoscopic transanal stapler anastomosis and underwater rectoscopy, prophylaxis of adhesions, drainage. We used this procedure to treat a 46-year-old woman (gravida 2, para 2) who was admitted to our hospital for severe lower abdominal pain, constipation, dyspareunia, dyschezia, and cyclic rectal bleedings. The symptoms were caused by an endometriotic nodule accompanied by a palpable rectum stenosis. In addition, she reported a past abdominal hysterectomy with complications caused by symptomatic myomatous uterus. As a gynecologic natural orifice surgery approach, the transvaginal-laparoscopic anterior rectum resection may be an additional useful surgical technique that could be offered by surgical gynecologists to some women with deep-infiltrating endometriosis.