Laparoscopic myomectomy and morcellation: A review of techniques, outcomes, and practice guidelines. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2018;46:99-112. [PMID: 29078975 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2017.09.012]

Dome-type extracorporeal manual morcellation during laparoscopic uterine surgery: Two years' experience in a teaching hospital

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe the dome-type manual morcellation technique, a modified form of C-type incision, its comparative advantages over existing morcellation methods, the perioperative outcomes of trainees with varying experience levels, and the variables influencing morcellation speed based on our two years of experience.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included women who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy or hysterectomy using dome-type morcellation for tissue extraction at a tertiary teaching hospital between May 2020 and September 2022. Morcellation was performed by either a single surgeon or a trainee (resident). Basic patient characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and morcellation time and speed were compared between the surgeon and trainee group. Regression models were employed to analyze variables influencing morcellation speed.

RESULTS

A total of 41 women were enrolled. Among them, 20 procedures were performed by a surgeon alone, while the remaining 21 procedures were completed by trainees under the surgeon's supervision. The median weight of the specimens was 378 g (range 91-1345 g), and the median time for morcellation was 10 min (range 1-55 min). The median morcellation speed of surgeon and trainees was 70.25 and 31.7 g/min, respectively. Trainees' level of experience was found to be associated with morcellation speed, particularly for soft specimens. Additionally, both incision size and specimen stiffness were significantly associated with morcellation speed. No morcellation-related complications or bag ruptures were observed.

CONCLUSION

Dome-type manual morcellation is an intuitive, efficient and safe method for specimen removal and is easy to learn for beginners.

Abnormal uterine bleeding: The well-known and the hidden face

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a bleeding from the uterine corpus that is abnormal in regularity, volume, frequency or duration. It encompasses heavy menstrual bleeding, irregular menstrual bleeding and intermenstrual bleeding, which are common symptoms among women of reproductive age, impacting their overall well-being. Menstruation involves interactions between endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, immune cell influx, and changes in endometrial vasculature. These events resemble an inflammatory response with increased vessel permeability, tissue breakdown, and the arrival of innate immune cells. However, the mechanisms of menstrual cessation are poorly understood. AUB can be related to structural causes (polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy/hyperplasia) and nonstructural conditions (coagulopathy, ovulatory dysfunction, endometrial, iatrogenic). While transvaginal ultrasound is the primary method for the screening of intracavitary lesions, saline infusion sonohysterography is more accurate to detect endometrial polyps and submucous leiomyomas, while hysteroscopy with biopsy remains the reference method for a definitive diagnosis. The main goals in managing AUB are addressing and correcting the underlying primary cause, if possible, and establishing a regular bleeding pattern or amenorrhea, which can be done with antifibrinolytic agents, progestins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists, or surgical interventions, each one with specific indications and limitations. Further research is necessary to assess the effectiveness and the long-term effects of various medical and surgical treatments. Meanwhile, the availability of diagnostic methods such as transvaginal ultrasound and hysteroscopy and the universal distribution of medical treatments for AUB should be prioritized by policymakers to minimize the diagnostic and treatment delay and thus reduce the risk of AUB-related anemia and the need of hysterectomy.

Case report: Spontaneous rupture of leiomyosarcoma uteri 8 months after primary laparoscopic surgery of STUMP

Introduction

Leiomyosarcoma (LMS), together with smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) and benign leiomyomas, belongs to a heterogeneous group of uterine neoplasms. According to the World Health Organization, tumors originating from uterine smooth muscle fibers are the second most frequent tumors. It is challenging to distinguish between STUMP and LMS because of an overlap of symptoms, lack of a precise definition, and unequivocal information obtained using imaging diagnostic methods. Following myomectomy or hysterectomy with laparoscopic or laparotomy surgery and a definitive histological diagnosis of STUMP, the course of treatment is determined by the need to preserve fertility. In 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration published an alert that unprotected laparoscopic morcellation is correlated with a 3-fold higher likelihood of dissemination of malignant cells and disease progression. Unprotected morcellation was independently associated with a higher risk of disease recurrence after demolition or conservative surgery, with a relative risk of 2.94.

Conclusion

Hematoperitoneum resulting from the spontaneous rupture of a uterine tumor is a rare gynecological emergency, with very few cases reported in the last decade.

Exploring Surgical Strategies for Uterine Fibroid Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Literature on Open and Minimally Invasive Approaches

Background and Objectives: Uterine myomas represent one of the most prevalent pathologies affecting the female population. These benign neoplasms originate from the smooth muscular cells of the uterus, and they can be either single or multiple. Often associated with debilitating symptoms such as pelvic heaviness, pain, constipation, and urinary dysfunctions, the surgical management of myomectomy exhibits considerable variability. This diversity in approaches is influenced by factors such as the number and size of myomas, the patient's age, and overall clinical conditions. This study aims to elucidate and compare the advantages and disadvantages of different surgical approaches, specifically endoscopic procedures versus open surgery, providing valuable insights for clinical decision making. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive bibliographic search spanning from 2013 to 2023 was systematically conducted across databases including Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The search utilized keywords such as "myomectomy laparoscopic and open", "myomectomy open and minimally invasive", "myomectomy open and laparoscopic", and "myomectomy open vs. laparoscopic." The research methodology, along with predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, was established prior to the search, ensuring a systematic and rigorous approach. Subsequently, data analysis was carried out. Results: Following the study selection process, 25 articles met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this analysis. The average numbers of myomas were 3.7 (ranging from 1 to 13.7) and 5.4 (ranging from 1 to 13.5) for the minimally invasive surgery and open surgery groups, respectively. In terms of myoma size, the total averages across studies were 7 cm (ranging from 4.8 to 14) for the minimally invasive group and 8 cm (ranging from 3.9 to 11.2) for the open surgery group. The average pregnancy and delivery rates were 29.7% (ranging from 1.8 to 100) for the minimally invasive group and 28.5% (ranging from 1.8 to 100) for the open surgery group. Regarding complications, the average rate was 14.2% (ranging from 0 to 50) for the endoscopic group and 22.3% (ranging from 0 to 60.3) for the laparotomic group. Conclusions: In conclusion, a critical factor influencing the choice of surgical approach is primarily the size and quantity of fibroids. The mini-laparotomic approach emerges as a viable alternative to endoscopy, demonstrating favorable surgical outcomes and aesthetic results. Interestingly, the type of surgical procedure appears to have no significant impact on the pregnancy rate.

Single-Incision Plus One Port Laparoscopic Surgery for Myomectomy: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of single-incision plus one port laparoscopic surgery (SILS + 1) for myomectomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from patients who underwent laparoendoscopic single-site myomectomy (LESS-M group, n = 40) and SILS + 1 (SILS + 1-M group, n = 40) for myomectomy at our hospital from October 2018 through December 2020. The patients' baseline demographic information and clinical data were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The results showed that no significant difference in basic characteristics or between the number, size, and location of uterine myomas between the two groups (p < 0.05). However, the surgery was more difficult and the total operating time was significantly longer in the LESS-M group compared to the SILS + 1-M group (83.5 ± 14.2 vs. 108.2 ± 18.1 min, p = 0.001). Moreover, the estimated intraoperative blood loss (113.4 ± 46.5 vs. 211.4 ± 60.3 ml, p = 0.001) and changes in hemoglobin level (13.1 ± 7.6 vs. 18.2 ± 6.0, p = 0.001) were significantly lower in the SILS + 1-M group compared to the LESS-M group. In addition, no serious intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred after surgery in either group. The clinical outcomes in the SILS + 1-M group were associated with a significant reduction in total surgical time compared to the LESS-M group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

SILS + 1 for myomectomy is popular in clinics, with a satisfactory clinical effect.

The concern about the educational quality of online videos on laparoscopic myomectomy

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyze the surgical content of the 50 most-viewed laparoscopic myomectomy videos on YouTube while evaluating the educational quality and accuracy of the videos.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, the keyword "laparoscopic myomectomy" was searched in publicly available content on YouTube, and the videos were sorted by view count using YouTube's advanced search options. Out of the first 66 videos, only 50 were eligible according to our selection criteria. One associate professor of gynecology and one gynecology resident watched these videos independently and evaluated the quality and surgical aspects. Our primary outcome was the scores of the Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information and Global Quality Score and the features of the surgical technique.

RESULTS

The 50 most-viewed laparoscopic myomectomy videos were uploaded between 2010 and 2021. They had a mean of 66636.6±103772.2 views. According to the Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information criteria, 78% of the videos were categorized as "poor," 12% of them were "fair," and 10% of them were "very poor." The indication of the surgery was not specified in 27 (54%) of them. The surgeons in 39 (79.6%) of the videos did not use any containment system for the power morcellation, even though it was restricted by the United States Food and Drug Administration. The preoperative and perioperative precautions to minimize blood loss were underemphasized. There was no scientific evidence in 49 (98%) of the videos.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic myomectomy videos on YouTube are limited in terms of providing evidence-based and well-organized scientific knowledge.

Contained Power Morcellation in Laparoscopic Uterine Myoma Surgeries: A Brief Review

Uterine fibromas are the most common benign uterine tumors. Although the majority of leiomyomas remain asymptomatic, they can cause serious clinical problems, including abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility, which require effective gynecological intervention. Depending on the symptoms as well as patients' preferences, various treatment options are available, such as medical therapy, non-invasive procedures, and surgical methods. Regardless of the extent of the surgery, the preferred option is the laparoscopic approach. To reduce the risk of spreading occult malignancy and myometrial cells associated with fragmentation of the specimen before its removal from the peritoneal cavity, special systems for laparoscopic contained morcellation have been developed. The aim of this review is to present the state-of-the-art contained morcellation. Different types of available retrieval bags are demonstrated. The advantages and difficulties associated with contained morcellation are described. The impact of retrieval bag usage on the course of surgery, as well as the effects of the learning curve, are discussed. The role of contained morcellation in the overall strategy to optimize patient safety is highlighted.

In-bag abdominal manual morcellation versus contained power morcellation in laparoscopic myomectomy: a comparison of surgical outcomes and costs

BACKGROUND

To compare the surgical outcomes and costs of in-bag abdominal manual morcellation (AMM) and contained power morcellation (PM) in laparoscopic myomectomy.

METHODS

A total of 61 patients were divided into two groups based on their myomectomy specimen extraction methods: AMM group (n = 33) and electromechanical contained PM group (n = 28). The surgical outcomes and cost were compared between groups. During AMM, a glove bag (in 27 patients) and an endo bag were used (in 6 patients) according to the myoma size.

RESULTS

Morcellation time (18 ± 9.2 min vs. 37.4 ± 14.1 min) and total operation time (100 ± 24.3 min vs. 127 ± 33.1 min) were significantly lower in the AMM group compared to those in the PM group. Other surgical outcomes, which were similar between groups, included delta hemoglobin, length of hospital stay and VAS score at 12 and 24 h postoperatively. There were no per- or postoperative complications in both group with no conversion to laparotomy. One patient was transfused with two units of erythrocyte suspension postoperatively in the PM group. Sarcoma was not diagnosed in any of the cases in both group.

CONCLUSION

The in-bag AMM or contained PM for specimen extraction resulted in similar outcomes in terms of delta hemoglobin, postoperative pain intensity (VAS score at 12 and 24 h postoperatively), the need for additional analgesia, and the length of hospital stay; however, total operation time and morcellation time were significantly shorter in the AMM group, indicating a prominent advantage. Significant cost-effectiveness is also a critical advantage of in-bag AMM compared to containing PM.

Development of an Algorithm to Differentiate Uterine Sarcoma from Fibroids Using MRI and LDH Levels

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to establish an evaluation method for detecting uterine sarcoma with 100% sensitivity using MRI and serum LDH levels.

METHODS

One evaluator reviewed the MRI images and LDH values of a total of 1801 cases, including 36 cases of uterine sarcoma and 1765 cases of uterine fibroids. The reproducibility of the algorithm was also examined by four evaluators with different imaging experience and abilities, using a test set of 61 cases, including 14 cases of uterine sarcoma.

RESULTS

From the MRI images and LDH values of 1801 cases of uterine sarcoma and uterine fibroids, we found that all sarcomas were included in the group with a high T2WI and either a high T1WI, an unclear margin, or high LDH values. In addition, when cases with DWI were examined, all sarcomas had high DWI. Among the 36 sarcoma cases, the group with positive findings for T2WI, T1WI, margins, and serum LDH levels all had a poor prognosis (p = 0.015). The reproducibility of the algorithm was examined by four evaluators and the sensitivity of sarcoma detection ranged from 71% to 93%.

CONCLUSION

We established an algorithm to distinguish uterine sarcoma if tumors in the myometrium with low T2WI and DWI are present.

Uterine smooth muscle tumors with uncertain malignant potential: analysis following fertility-saving procedures

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical and reproductive outcomes of patients treated with myomectomy who were histologically diagnosed with uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP).

METHODS

Patients who were diagnosed with STUMP and underwent a myomectomy at our institution between October 2003 and October 2019 were identified. Variables of interest obtained from the institution's database included patient age, relevant medical history, pre-operative appearance of the tumor on ultrasound, parameters of the surgical procedure, histopathological analysis of the tumor, post-operative clinical course, and course of follow-up, including reinterventions and fertility outcomes.

RESULTS

There were a total of 46 patients that fulfilled the criteria of STUMP. The median patient age was 36 years (range, 18-48 years) and the mean follow-up was 47.6 months (range, 7-149 months). Thirty-four patients underwent primary laparoscopic procedures. Power morcellation was used for specimen extraction in 19 cases (55.9% of laparoscopic procedures). Endobag retrieval was used in nine patients and six procedures were converted to an open approach due to the suspicious peri-operative appearance of the tumor. Five patients underwent elective laparotomy due to the size and/or number of tumors; three patients had vaginal myomectomy; two patients had the tumor removed during planned cesarean section; and two underwent hysteroscopic resection.There were 13 reinterventions (five myomectomies and eight hysterectomies) with benign histology in 11 cases and STUMP histology in two cases (4.3% of all patients). We did not observe any recurrence as leiomyosarcoma or other uterine malignancy. We did not observe any deaths related to the diagnosis. Twenty-two pregnancies were recorded among 17 women, which resulted in 18 uncomplicated deliveries (17 by cesarean section and one vaginal), two missed abortions, and two pregnancy terminations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that uterus-saving procedures and fertility-preservation strategies in women with STUMP are feasible, safe, and seem to be associated with a low risk of malignant recurrence, even while maintaining the mini-invasive laparoscopic approach.

Safety of Same-Day Discharge Versus Hospital Admission in Minimally Invasive Myomectomy

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To compare postoperative complication rates between same-day discharge patients and patients admitted to hospital after minimally invasive myomectomy, stratified by patient demographics and perioperative variables including myoma burden.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study. Setting Hospitals participating in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from January 2015 to December 2019.

PATIENTS

Female patients aged ≥18 years undergoing minimally invasive myomectomy.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were categorized into either the same-day discharge or admitted patient cohort. Univariate comparisons of demographics, perioperative variables, and 30-day postoperative complications were performed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to 1) identify demographic and perioperative factors associated with admission, and 2) compare postoperative complication rates of same-day discharge patients with those of admitted patients while adjusting for demographic and perioperative factors.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Eight thousand one hundred patients were recruited during the study period. The overall rate of same-day discharge was 57.2% in 2015 and 65.0% in 2019. The same-day discharge rate was 64.6% for patients with a smaller myoma burden (1-4 fibroids and ≤250 grams, Current Procedural Terminology 58545) and 56.8% for larger myoma burden (≥5 fibroids or >250 grams, Current Procedural Terminology 58546). Age, race, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification III or IV, preoperative hematocrit <36%, hypertension, diabetes, bleeding disorder, and increasing operative time were associated with admission to hospital. After adjusting for these variables, composite postoperative complication rates were similar between admitted patients and patients who were discharged the same day regardless of myoma burden (adjusted OR [aOR], 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.18-2.47 for low myoma burden and aOR, 0.91; 95% CI 0.18-4.63 for high myoma burden). Admitted patients with both low (aOR, 9.1; 95% CI 2.27-37.04) and high (aOR, 8.24; 95% CI 1.59-42.49) myoma burdens were significantly more likely to receive a blood transfusion compared to same-day discharge patients.

CONCLUSION

Same-day discharge after minimally invasive myomectomy, regardless of myoma burden, is associated with low complication rates. Our findings may aid in shared decision making on discharge planning.

Molecular Insights in Uterine Leiomyosarcoma: A Systematic Review

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign tumors of female genital diseases, unlike uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS), a rare and aggressive uterine cancer. This narrative review aims to discuss the biology and diagnosis of LMS and, at the same time, their differential diagnosis, in order to distinguish the biological and molecular origins. The authors performed a Medline and PubMed search for the years 1990–2022 using a combination of keywords on the topics to highlight the many genes and proteins involved in the pathogenesis of LMS. The mutation of these genes, in addition to the altered expression and functions of their enzymes, are potentially biomarkers of uterine LMS. Thus, the use of this molecular and protein information could favor differential diagnosis and personalized therapy based on the molecular characteristics of LMS tissue, leading to timely diagnoses and potential better outcomes for patients.

Analysis of Pregnancy Outcomes after Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective. This study aimed to investigate the factors related to pregnancy outcomes after laparoscopic myomectomy. Methods. A retrospective review was conducted on 156 patients aged 18 to 45 years who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy in Ningbo Women and Children’s Hospital from January 2010 to December 2016. Follow-up medical records and information were collected on demographic variables, clinical variables, and postoperative pregnancy rate. The logistic regression model was used to assess the association between related factors and postoperative pregnancy rate or pregnancy outcome. The outcome indicators included $\text{abortion}=0$ , $\text{premature}\text{birth}=1$ , and $\text{full}\text{term}=2$ . The chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test was used to compare the differences in pregnancy outcomes, postpartum hemorrhage, and placenta adhesion between the cohorts. Results. The size of fibroids correlated with the postoperative pregnancy rate. The larger the fibroids, the lower the postoperative pregnancy rate, and the difference was statistically significant. The number of fibroids and placental adhesions was positively associated with postoperative pregnancy; the higher the number of fibroids, the higher the incidence of placental adhesions. However, the postoperative interval of pregnancy, fibroid size, and number and type of fibroids are not correlated with the pregnancy outcomes of postoperative patients. Conclusions. The size of myoma may influence the pregnancy rate of patients after laparoscopic myomectomy. The number of fibroids can affect the incidence of placental adhesions during postoperative pregnancy.

Endobag use in laparoscopic gynecological surgeries: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the characteristics of endobags present in the market, the weight of specimen removed, complications of the operations and time required for in-bag morcellation in women undergoing laparoscopic gynecologic surgeries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a systematic review, including prospective and retrospective studies, with or without randomized allocation of the patients, using endobags in laparoscopic gynecologic surgeries. We extracted data about study design, type and price of bag used, type of surgical procedure, specimen weight, mean time for morcellation and for total surgical procedure, complications.

RESULTS

We included 11 studies, including a total of 1160 patients, in which the investigators used MorSafe, Endocatch II autosuture, More-Cell-Safe, Endocatch, EcoSac and LapBag. A wide range of specimens were morcellated with the largest successfully morcellated specimen weighing 2314 gr. Only half of the studies comparing uncontained and contained morcellation found a significant increase of total operative time. Finally, the number of complications was not increased when endobag was used.

CONCLUSION

According to our systematic review, in-bag (contained) morcellation can be considered as a safe and unexpensive option, associated with a very low number of complications, even with large specimens.

Novel technique of extracorporeal intrauterine morcellation after total laparoscopic hysterectomy: Three emblematic case reports

BACKGROUND

In the presence of a large uterus, total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), always requires morcellation to allow removal of the tissues from the abdominal cavity. However, uncontained morcellation has been scrutinized because of the possible spread of occult leiomyosarcoma. Therefore, in-bag extracorporeal morcellation has been developed. However, tissue containment and extraction are extremely challenging, especially when considering the increasing uterine size to be removed through minimally invasive surgery.

CASE SUMMARY

Herein, we describe a novel technique for extracorporeal intrauterine morcellation using the uterus outermost layer as a bag to achieve tissue extraction of very large uteri with suspected occult leiomyosarcoma after TLH. The study enrolled patients who were planned for TLH for large uteri (weight > 500 g). TLH was performed following the procedure reported in our previous studies. The novel technique has been described step-by-step in a video, which representatively describes the preoperative imaging and morcellation procedure of three very large uteri weighing 1500 g, 1700 g, and 3700 g, respectively. The procedures were performed without any complications. The patients had an uneventful postoperative course, and in all cases, the pathology was benign leiomyoma.

CONCLUSION

Extracorporeal intrauterine morcellation using the uterus outmost layer as a bag was found to be a feasible technique that allows a careful diagnosis and safe removal of suspected occult malignancies. The technique herein presented may be adopted in surgical practice, by adding it to the other available techniques of contained morcellation. It may represent a valid and feasible alternative, especially useful in cases of very large uteri exceeding the capacity of specimen retrieval bags.

Inbag Morcellation Applied to the Laparoscopic Surgery of Leiomyoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of an endoscopic bag during laparoscopic morcellation of leiomyoma or myomatous uterus.

Materials and Methods

A total of 48 patients with symptomatic leiomyoma were randomized for laparoscopic morcellation in two groups: group A with a specific endoscopic bag or group B without any bag. The primary outcome measure was the detection of smooth muscle cells from washing after power morcellation determined by peritoneal cytology and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

Cytology and IHC from group A did not revealed any smooth muscle cells, while 29% of cases (7/24) from group B were positive (p = .009). The duration of the surgical procedure was the same in both groups. The duration of positioning the bag did not change significantly during the study. Only in one case the use of the bag was difficult due to a low pneumoperitoneum.

Conclusions

The use of a morcellation bag is efficient to prevent the spread of smooth muscle cells during the morcellation of leiomyoma or myomatous uterus. This study confirms the feasibility and the safety of the laparoscopic inbag morcellation versus open morcellation.

The Medical Device Applied to Uterine Fibroids Morcellation: Analysis of Critical Biological Issues and Drawbacks from A Medical-Legal Prospective

Following the FDA safety communication of 2014 increasing attention has been to the treatment of uterine fibroids, due to the suspicion of a potential leiomyosarcoma (ULM). FDA banned the use of power morcellation in the US, since this technique is likely to spread malignant cells from an unsuspected ULM. We criticized the medical legal consequences of this banning among gynecologists and patients, focusing on the drawbacks of biology and surgery. The authors analyzed literature data on one side, on the incidence, diagnosis and treatment of leiomyoma and ULM, and the other side, on the power morcellations and related critical issues, trying to highlight their main controversial aspects and to outline the possible impact on patients and on medical responsibility. The alternative methods to power morcellation are more invasive surgical solutions (as mini laparotomy or culdotomy), which inevitably involve associated risks with the surgical procedure as such and always request the containing bags. Although the in-bag morcellation is a promising technique, currently the used devices are largely off-label. This highlights the surgical risk, in case of complications, of suffering for malpractice claims both for not having used a containment system, favoring the spread of the neoplasm, and for its off-label use. Since the diagnosis of ULM is by histology after surgery, the fear of legal consequences or medical malpractice for unknown ULM power morcellation, should be targeted to analyze, in terms of cost/benefit ratio, the surgical priority. It should focus on the prevention of the risk of having a rare and statistically limited ULM or on the surgical-related complications, often linked to a slowdown minimally invasive surgery, or on the use of the authorized in-bag morcellations.

Comparison of the Number of Spindle Cells in Peritoneal Washings between Laparoscopic Myomectomy with Morcellation and Open Myomectomy without Morcellation

STUDY OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated peritoneal washings for the detection of spindle cells (SCs) in laparoscopic and open myomectomies.

DESIGN

Prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial.

SETTING

An academic tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS

Women suspected of having benign uterine myoma undergoing laparoscopic or open myomectomy from October 2016 to April 2018.

INTERVENTIONS

Washing of the peritoneal cavity to detect SCs was performed twice during the laparoscopic myomectomy. The first washing was after the closure of the myometrial incision and before morcellation. The second one was performed after morcellation. The procedure was also performed once during the open myomectomy, after the completion of the myomectomy and the closure of the incision. After a peritoneal washing with 200 mL normal saline, 30 mL liquid was collected and sent to the laboratory for SC detection. Surgical parameters such as operating time, mean change in serum hemoglobin level, complications, length of hospital stay, and readmission were compared between the 2 groups.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 150 participants were included in the analysis: 78 in the laparoscopic group and 72 in the open myomectomy group. After morcellation, the incidence of SCs was 2.6% (n = 2) and 6.9% (n = 5) in the laparoscopic and open myomectomy groups, respectively (p = .204).

CONCLUSION

SCs were observed in both the laparoscopic and open myomectomy groups. Thus, morcellation alone could not be the cause for SC dissemination, which might also be triggered by the manipulation of myoma(s).

Robotic Management of Fibroids: Discussion of Use, Criteria and Advantages

Fibroids are the most common benign tumors affecting fertility and quality of life. Different methods either definitive or fertility sparing are used for their management by using open, laparoscopic and robotic techniques. This is a narrative review presenting the role and the advantages of robotic surgery in fibroids (myomectomies or hysterectomies). Such a management is effective, safe and feasible in hands of well-trained teams even for multiple, large or deep located fibroids.

In-bag manual versus uncontained power morcellation for laparoscopic myomectomy

BACKGROUND

Uterine leiomyomas, also referred to as myomas or fibroids, are benign tumours arising from the smooth muscle cells of the myometrium. They are the most common pelvic tumour in women. The estimated rate of leiomyosarcoma, found during surgery for presumed benign leiomyomas, is about 0.51 per 1000 procedures, or approximately 1 in 2000. Treatment options for symptomatic uterine leiomyomas include medical, surgical, and radiologically-guided interventions. Laparoscopic myomectomy is the gold standard surgical approach for women who want offspring, or otherwise wish to retain their uterus. A limitation of laparoscopy is the inability to remove large specimens from the abdominal cavity through the laparoscope. To overcome this challenge, the morcellation approach was developed, during which larger specimens are broken into smaller pieces in order to remove them from the abdominal cavity via the port site. However, intracorporeal power morcellation may lead to scattering of benign tissues, with the risk of spreading leiomyoma or endometriosis. In cases of unsuspected malignancy, power morcellation can cause unintentional dissemination of malignant cells, and lead to a poorer prognosis by upstaging the occult cancer. A strategy to optimise women's safety is to morcellate the specimens inside a bag. In-bag morcellation may avoid the dissemination of tissue fragments.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of protected in-bag extracorporeal manual morcellation during laparoscopic myomectomy compared to intra-abdominal uncontained power morcellation.

SEARCH METHODS

On 1 July 2019, we searched; the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialized Register of Controlled Trials, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS, PubMed, Google Scholar, and two trials registers. We reviewed the reference lists of all retrieved full-text articles, and contacted experts in the field for additional and ongoing trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised controlled trials comparing in-bag extracorporeal manual morcellation versus intracorporeal uncontained power morcellation during laparoscopic myomectomy in premenopausal women.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We followed standard Cochrane methods. Two review authors independently reviewed the eligibility of trials, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias. Data were checked for accuracy. The summary measures were reported as risk ratios (RR) or mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). The outcomes of interest were a composite of intraoperative and postoperative complications, operative times, ease of morcellation, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain, conversion to laparotomy, and postoperative diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. Results for the five main outcomes follow.

MAIN RESULTS

We included two trials, enrolling 176 premenopausal women with fibroids, who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy. The experimental group received in-bag manual morcellation, during which each enucleated myoma was placed into a specimen retrieval bag, and manually morcellated with scalpel or scissors. In the control group, intracorporeal uncontained power morcellation was used to reduce the size of the myomas. No intraoperative complications, including accidental morcellation of the liver, conversion to laparotomy, endoscopic bag disruption, bowel injury, bleeding, accidental injury to any viscus or vessel, were reported in either group in either trial. We found very low-quality evidence of inconclusive results for total operative time (MD 9.93 minutes, 95% CI -1.35 to 21.20; 2 studies, 176 participants; I² = 35%), and ease of morcellation (MD -0.73 points, 95% CI -1.64 to 0.18; 1 study, 104 participants). The morcellation operative time was a little longer for the in-bag manual morcellation group, however the quality of the evidence was very low (MD 2.59 minutes, 95% CI 0.45 to 4.72; 2 studies, 176 participants; I² = 0%). There were no postoperative diagnoses of leiomyosarcoma made in either group in either trial. We are very uncertain of any of these results. We downgraded the quality of the evidence due to indirectness and imprecision, because of limited sites in high-income settings and countries, small sample sizes, wide confidence intervals, and few events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There are limited data on the effectiveness and safety of in-bag morcellation at the time of laparoscopic myomectomy compared to uncontained power morcellation. We were unable to determine the effects of in-bag morcellation on intraoperative complications as no events were reported in either group. We are uncertain if in-bag morcellation improves total operative time or ease of morcellation compared to control. Regarding morcellation operative time, the quality of the evidence was also very low and we cannot be certain of the effect of in-bag morcellation compared to uncontained morcellation. No cases of postoperative diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma occurred in either group. We found only two trials comparing in-bag extracorporeal manual morcellation to intracorporeal uncontained power morcellation at the time of laparoscopic myomectomy. Both trials had morcellation operative time as primary outcome and were not powered for uncommon outcomes such as intraoperative complications, and postoperative diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. Large, well-planned and executed trials are needed.

The effects and costs of laparoscopic versus abdominal myomectomy in patients with uterine fibroids: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Abdominal myomectomy (AM) and laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) are commonly see surgery for the uterine fibroids, several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have compared the role of AM and LM, the results remained inconsistent. Therefore, we attempted this meta-analysis to analyze the role of LM versus AM in patients with uterine fibroids.

METHODS

We searched PubMed et al. databases from inception date to July 31, 2019 for RCTs that compared LM versus AM in patients with uterine fibroids. Two authors independently screened the studies and extracted data from the published articles. Summary odd ratios(OR) or mean differences(MD) with 95% confidence intervals(CI) were calculated for each outcome by means of fixed- or random-effects model.

RESULTS

Twelve RCTs with a total of 1783 patients were identified, with 887 patients for and 897 patients for AM. Compared with AM, LM could significantly decrease the blood loss (OR = - 29.78, 95% CI -57.62- - 0.95), shorten the duration of postoperative ileus (OR = - 10.91, 95% CI -18.72- - 3.11), reduce the length of hospital stay (OR = - 1.57, 95% CI -2.05- - 1.08), but LM was associated with longer duration of operation (OR = 16.10, 95% CI 6.52-25.67) and higher medical cost (OR = 17.61, 95% CI 7.34-27.88).

CONCLUSIONS

LM seems to be a better choice for patients with uterine fibroids, more related studies are needed to identify the role of LM and AM for the treatment of uterine fibroids.

Comparison of Reduced-Port Robotic Surgery (RPRS) with conventional 2 port laparoscopy for myomectomy

OBJECTIVE

To compare the surgical outcomes between Reduced-Port Robotic Surgery (RPRS) using the Octo-Port system and conventional 2 port laparoscopy for myomectomy.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a prospective, non-randomized study, which compared and analyzed data from 41 patients who underwent RPRS myomectomy and 22 patients who underwent conventional 2 port laparoscopic myomectomy from April 2016 through July 2019. We compared the myoma enucleation time, suture time, myoma type, and the location of the largest myoma between the two groups.

RESULTS

The patients were not different between the two groups. The myoma enucleation time (26.7 ± 20.9 vs. 22.0 ± 13.7, p = 0.380), hemoglobin drop (2.38 ± 0.9 vs 2.1 ± 0.8, p = 0.280), weight of the myomas (205.3 ± 161.5 vs. 163.4 ± 89.1, p = 0.261), and estimated blood loss (181.1 ± 163.4 vs. 187.3 ± 77.5, p = 0.840) were not significantly different between the two groups. Notably, only the suture time (15.5 (10-21.5) vs. 20 (18-27), p = 0.005) was lesser in women who underwent RPRS myomectomy than in those who underwent conventional 2 port myomectomy.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that RPRS myomectomy is comparable to conventional 2 port laparoscopic myomectomy in terms of safety and feasibility and may be more advantageous for suturing after myoma enucleation.

Laparotomic myomectomy for a huge cervical myoma in a young nulligravida woman: A case report and review of the literature

Background

A huge cervical myoma (rare) in a young woman is a nightmare of every gynecologist owing to the associated technical challenges in performing a myomectomy. Moreover, the 2014 US Food and Drug Administration prohibited power morcellation during laparoscopic myomectomy due to the inadvertent spread of occult malignancy and an increased risk of iatrogenic parasitic leiomyoma negatively affected the overall rate of a minimally invasive surgery.

Case

This report described our experience with a case of a huge anterior cervical myoma (473 gr) in a young nulligravida woman who successfully underwent laparotomic myomectomy. After an initial diagnosis by Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we performed preoperative ureteric catheterization. The myoma was enucleated following the footsteps of Victor Bonney, the pioneer of myomectomy, combined with simple additional steps. We did not use preoperative gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog, intraoperative vasopressin injection, or uterine artery ligation. A 6-month follow-up MRI revealed an intact cervical canal in midline position with no evidence of residual fibroid.

Conclusion

Based on our experience, the review of the relevant literature, and the US Food and Drug Administration's prohibition of power morcellation during laparoscopic myomectomy, a laparotomic myomectomy for a huge cervical myoma still plays a vital role in fertility preservation. We propose the mnemonic "MUSIC" as a helpful guide for a consistent strategy: M (preoperative MRI), U (prophylactic ureteric catheterization), S (shell out the myoma following Bonney's principles i.e. start-up and stay intracapsular), I (immediate suction to clarify dead space) and C (close the cavity by spiraling stitch).

Association Between Power Morcellation and Mortality in Women With Unexpected Uterine Cancer Undergoing Hysterectomy or Myomectomy

PURPOSE

Despite concerns that power morcellation may adversely affect prognosis of patients with occult uterine cancer, empirical evidence has been limited and inconclusive. In this study, we aimed to determine whether uncontained power morcellation at the time of hysterectomy or myomectomy is associated with increased mortality risk in women with occult uterine cancer.

METHODS

By linking statewide hospital discharge records with cancer registry data in New York, we identified 843 women with occult endometrial carcinoma and 334 women with occult uterine sarcoma who underwent a hysterectomy or myomectomy for presumed benign indications during the period October 1, 2003, through December 31, 2013. Within this cohort, we compared disease-specific and all-cause mortality of women who underwent laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy/laparoscopic myomectomy (LSH/LM), a surrogate indicator for uncontained power morcellation, with women who underwent supracervical abdominal hysterectomy and total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH), which did not involve power morcellation. Multivariable Cox regressions and propensity score method were used to adjust for patient characteristics.

RESULTS

Among women with occult uterine sarcoma, LSH/LM was associated with a higher risk for disease-specific mortality than TAH (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.66, 95% CI, 1.11 to 6.37; adjusted difference in 5-year disease-specific survival, -19.4%, 95% CI, -35.8% to -3.1%). In the subset of women with leiomyosarcoma, LSH/LM was associated with an increased risk for disease-specific mortality compared with supracervical abdominal hysterectomy (aHR, 3.64, 95% CI, 1.50 to 8.86; adjusted difference in 5-year disease-specific survival, -31.2%, 95% CI, -50.0% to -12.3%) and TAH (aHR, 4.66, 95% CI, 1.97 to 11.00; adjusted difference in 5-year disease-specific survival, -37.3%, 95% CI, -54.2% to -20.3%). Among women with occult endometrial carcinoma, there was no significant association between surgical approach and disease-specific mortality.

CONCLUSION

Uncontained power morcellation was associated with higher mortality risk in women with occult uterine sarcoma, especially in those with occult leiomyosarcoma.

A Benign Uterine Leiomyoma with Disturbing Appearance

Herein, we described a 53-year-old woman who underwent laparoscopic uterine myomectomy. The cut surface of the leiomyoma showed a grain appearance, instead of a whorled feature. The disturbing appearance was an unexpected surprise to the surgeon. The diagnosis of benign uterine leiomyoma was established through intraoperative frozen section and was identical to the subsequent permanent pathology.

Application of a 'Baseball' Suture Technique in Uterine Myomectomy Following Laparoscopic Enucleation of Uterine Leiomyoma (Fibroid)

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a ‘baseball’ suture technique for uterine myomectomy incision closure in laparoscopic surgical enucleation of uterine leiomyoma (fibroid).

Material/Methods

The study included 20 patients who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy with a ‘baseball’ suture technique, compared with 20 patients who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy with a standard suture method. Clinical characteristics, perioperative and follow-up data were compared between the two groups.

Results

For the study group, compared with the standard or control group, had a significantly reduced operation time (60.15±9.97 min vs. 71.85±9.74 min) and suturing time (18.05±4.71 min vs. 28.35±3.13 min) (both p<0.05), significantly less intraoperative blood loss (93.25±19.62 ml vs. 121.50±24.87 ml) (p<0.05) and significantly less reduction in postoperative hemoglobin levels (8.9±1.97 g/L vs. 11.15±2.23 g/L) (p<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in duration of the use of the indwelling drainage tube, drainage volume, or time to recovery of gastrointestinal function (all, p>0.05). Following surgery, blood transfusion was given to one patient in the study group and two patients in the control group. One patient from each group had a fever. There was no significant difference in pregnancy outcomes between the two groups.

Conclusions

The ‘baseball’ suture technique for closure of the uterine incision is a safe and effective method for use in laparoscopic myomectomy. However, the long-term recovery outcomes require further study.