Total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (type II-III) with pelvic lymphadenectomy in early invasive cervical cancer

Comparison of the efficacy and safety of total laparoscopic hysterectomy without and with uterine manipulator combined with pelvic lymphadenectomy for early cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

Some studies have reported that the prognosis of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) for early-stage cervical cancer (CC) is worse than that of open surgery. And this was associated with the use of uterine manipulator or not. Therefore, this study retrospectively analyzes the efficacy and safety of TLH without uterine manipulator combined with pelvic lymphadenectomy for early-stage CC.

METHODS

Fifty-eight patients with CC (stage IB1-IIA1) who received radical hysterectomy from September 2019 to January 2020 were divided into no uterine manipulator (n = 26) and uterine manipulator group (n = 32). Then, clinical characteristics were collected and intraoperative/postoperative related indicators were compared.

RESULTS

Patients in the no uterine manipulator group had significantly higher operation time and blood loss than in the uterine manipulator group. Notably, there was no significant difference in hemoglobin change, blood transfusion rate, number of pelvic nodules, anal exhaust time, complications and recurrence rate between the two groups. Additionally, patients in the uterine manipulator group were prone to urinary retention (15.6%) and lymphocyst (12.5%), while the no uterine manipulator group exhibited high probability of bladder dysfunction (23.1%) and urinary retention (15.4%). Furthermore, the 1-year disease-free survival rate and the 1-year overall survival rate were not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in the efficacy and safety of TLH with or without uterine manipulator combined with pelvic lymphadenectomy in the treatment of patients with early-stage CC. However, the latter requires consideration of the negative effects of high operation time and blood loss.

Laparotomic radical hysterectomy versus minimally invasive radical hysterectomy using vaginal colpotomy for the management of stage IB1 to IIA2 cervical cancer: Survival outcomes

This study compared survival outcomes for patients with stage IB1 to IIA2 (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage 2009) cervical cancer who underwent open radical hysterectomy (ORH) versus those who underwent minimally invasive radical hysterectomy (MIRH) using vaginal colpotomy (VC).Data for 550 patients who were diagnosed with cervical cancer at our institution during the period August 2005 to September 2018 was retrospectively reviewed. Of these, 116 patients who underwent radical hysterectomy (RH) were selected after applying the exclusion criteria. All MIRH patients underwent VC. Clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes between the ORH and MIRH groups were compared using appropriate statistical testing.Ninety one patients were treated with ORH and 25 with MIRH during the study period. Among the MIRH patients, 18 underwent laparoscopy-assisted radical vaginal hysterectomy and 7 underwent laparoscopic RH. Preoperative conization was performed more frequently in MIRH patients than in ORH patients (44% vs 22%, respectively, P = .028). The incidence of lymph node invasion was higher in the ORH group than in MIRH group (37.4% vs 12.0% respectively; P = .016). Following RH, ORH patients underwent adjuvant treatment more frequently than MIRH patients (71.4% vs 56.0%, respectively, P = .002). There were no significant differences between ORH and MIRH patients for either progression-free survival (PFS) (91.3% vs 78.7%, respectively; P = .220) or 5-year overall survival (OS) (96.6% vs 94.7%, respectively, P = .929). In univariate analysis, lympho-vascular space invasion was the only clinicopathological feature associated with decreased PFS. No other clinicopathological factors was significantly associated with PFS or OS in univariate and multivariate analyses.Despite a higher incidence of unfavorable prognostic factors in ORH patients, their survival outcomes were not different to those of MIRH patients with VC.

Quality of training in cervical cancer radical surgery: a survey from the European Network of Young Gynaecologic Oncologists (ENYGO)

BACKGROUND

The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) and partners are committed to improving the training for gynecologic oncology fellows. The aim of this survey was to assess the type and level of training in cervical cancer surgery and to investigate whether the Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer (LACC) trial results impacted training in radical surgery for gynecologic oncology fellows.

METHODS

In June 2020, a 47-question electronic survey was shared with European Network of Young Gynaecologic Oncologists (ENYGO) members. Specialist fellows in obstetrics and gynecology, and gynecologic oncology, from high- and low-volume centers, who started training between January 1, 2017 and January 1, 2020 or started before January 1, 2017 but finished their training at least 6 months after the LACC trial publication (October 2018), were included.

RESULTS

81 of 125 (64.8%) respondents were included. The median time from the start of the fellowship to completion of the survey was 28 months (range 6-48). 56 (69.1%) respondents were still fellows-in-training. 6 of 56 (10.7%) and 14 of 25 (56.0%) respondents who were still in training and completed the fellowship, respectively, performed ≥10 radical hysterectomies during their training. Fellows trained in an ESGO accredited center had a higher chance to perform sentinel lymph node biopsy (60.4% vs 30.3%; p=0.027). There was no difference in the mean number of radical hysterectomies performed by fellows during fellowship before and after the LACC trial publication (8±12.0 vs 7±8.4, respectively; p=0.46). A significant reduction in number of minimally invasive radical hysterectomies was noted when comparing the period before and after the LACC trial (38.5% vs 13.8%, respectively; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Exposure to radical surgery for cervical cancer among gynecologic oncology fellows is low. Centralization of cervical cancer cases to high-volume centers may provide an increase in fellows' exposure to radical procedures. The LACC trial publication was associated with a decrease in minimally invasive radical hysterectomies performed by fellows.

A retrospective assessment of the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy in Japan during the early years following its introduction: a Japanese Gynecologic Oncology Group study (JGOG1081S)

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) for cervical cancer, in terms of morbidity and short-term oncologic outcome following LRH's introduction into Japan.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with early-stage cervical cancer (FIGO staging IA2, IB1, and IIA1) who underwent LRH from Dec 2014 to Dec 2016. We assessed the morbidity, overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS), and prognostic factors for RFS.

RESULTS

A total of 251 patients were included from 22 facilities across Japan. There were 8 cases of stage IA2 cervical cancer, 226 of IB1, and 17 of IIA1. The median operating time was 343 min and the median blood loss was 190 ml. Two patients (0.8%) had a postoperative complication with a Clavien-Dindo classification of grade 3 or higher. After a median follow-up time of 15.6 months, the 2-year RFS was 87.4%, and the 2-year OS was 97.8%. When the 2-year RFS rate was compared with whether the patient pathologically had tumors of less than 2 cm, versus 2 cm or more, the RFS was 95.8% and 80.4%, respectively. Multivariate analysis found that tumor size and the route of lymph node removal were independent prognostic factors for recurrence.

CONCLUSION

When LRH was first introduced into Japan, we found that the route of lymph node removal was an independent prognostic factor for recurrence in addition to large tumors (≥ 2 cm). Our results suggest that prognosis may be secured by paying attention to the lymph node removal route.

Concurrent Learning Curves of 3-Dimensional and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy for Early-Stage Cervical Cancer Using 2-Dimensional Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy as a Benchmark: A Single Surgeon's Experience

Background

For early-stage cervical cancers, radical hysterectomy (RH) with pelvic lymphadenectomy has been the standard care. This study compared the learning curves and intra-, peri-, and post-operative outcomes for 3-dimensional laparoscopic RH (3D-LRH) and robotic-assisted (RA)-LRH by a surgeon highly skilled in 2-dimensional (2D)-LRH for treatment of early-stage cervical cancer.

Material/Methods

Two hundred and thirty-nine patients with early-stage cervical cancer (FIGO stage: Ia2–IIa2) admitted to Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University were recruited into this prospective study: 54, 85, and 100 patients underwent 2D-, 3D-, and RA-LRH, respectively and were followed up. Patients’ demographic, clinical, and operative information was retrieved and compared. CUSUM (cumulative summation) analysis using a benchmark derived from previously performed 2D-LRHs.

Results

Both 3D- and RA-LRH had a steep learning curve. 3D-LRH was superior to 2D- and RA-LRH in terms of significantly shorter operating time. For all approaches, the operating time was associated with the uterus size of the patient and was not affected by other parameters. All approaches of LRH yielded comparable radicality and operative results other than operative time.

Conclusions

Both 3D- and RA-LRH approaches had similar radicality, and intra-operative and post-operative complication rates, however, 3D-LRH had the shortest operating time and lowest amount of blood loss. After reaching proficiency, RA-LRH had comparable operating time with that of 2D-LRH, and might be even shorter in cases where surgeon has acquired more experience. In countries where labor costs are low; 3D-LRH might be preferable to 2D- and RA-LRH for early-stage cervical cancer.

Oncologic and Surgical Outcomes of Robotic Versus Open Radical Hysterectomy for Cervical Cancer

OBJECTIVE

In view of the recent controversy concerning the use of minimally invasive radical hysterectomy as primary treatment for early stage cervical cancer, this study compared the survival and perioperative outcomes in a cohort of patients who underwent radical hysterectomy either by laparotomy or by robotics.

METHODS

This retrospective study compared all consecutive patients with early stage cervical cancer since the beginning of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the Jewish General Hospital in 2003, who underwent robotic radical hysterectomy (n = 74) with a cohort of all consecutive patients from the immediate past who underwent open radical hysterectomy (n = 24) for early stage cervical cancer. All patients were treated at the Jewish General Hospital in Montréal (Canadian Task Force Classification II-2).

RESULTS

The median follow-up time for the robotic group was 46 months. During that time, 7% and 17% of patients in the robotic group and the laparotomy group had disease recurrence, respectively (P = 0.12). Cox multivariate regression showed no statistically significant effect of surgical approach on overall survival (hazard ratio 1.50, P = 0.63) or on progression-free survival (hazard ratio 0.29, P = 0.07). Patients in the robotic cohort had significantly shorter median hospital stays (1 day vs. 7 days, P < 0.001), and their overall incidence of postoperative complications was lower (13% vs. 50%, P < 0.001). Median estimated blood loss for robotics was also significantly lower (82 mL vs. 528 mL, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Based on the data on a limited number of patients in a Canadian context, robotic radical hysterectomy did not lead to worse oncologic outcomes and was associated with improved short-term surgical outcomes. One might consider the evaluation of more personalized surgical decision making.

Impact of hospital care volume on clinical outcomes of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In cervical cancer, the impact of hospital volume of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) has not been investigated systematically as in ovarian cancer.The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of hospital care volume of LRH on treatment outcomes of patients with cervical cancer.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched with the terms "cervical cancer," "radical hysterectomy," and "laparoscopy." The selection criteria included studies presenting operative outcomes and/or perioperative complications of LRH from high-volume hospitals (HVHs) (≥15 cases/year) and low-volume hospitals (LVHs) (<15 cases/year). Fifty-nine studies including 4367 cases were selected. Linear regression analysis weighted by the average annual case number in each study was performed to evaluate differences between the groups.

RESULTS

In HVH, a higher number of lymph nodes (24.5 vs 21.1; P = .037) were retrieved by LRH in older women (48.4 vs 44.5 years; P = .010) with tendencies of shorter operation time (224.4 vs 256.4 minutes; P = .096) and less blood loss (253.1 vs 322.2 mL; P = .080). Compared with LVH, HVH had fewer patients with stage IA disease (13.8 vs 24.4%; P = .003) and more patients with stage IIA disease (15.3 vs 7.1%; P = .052) with comparable 5-year overall survival (93.1 vs 88.6%; P = .112).

CONCLUSION

HVH is a prognostic factor for operative outcome and perioperative complications in patients with cervical cancer undergoing LRH. The exact effect of hospital volume on survival outcome needs to be evaluated.

Radical Hysterectomy: Efficacy and Safety in the Dawn of Minimally Invasive Techniques

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To analyze the effect that the introduction of minimally invasive procedures has had on surgical and oncologic outcomes when compared with conventional open radical hysterectomy (ORH) in a national reference cancer after 17 years of experience in radical hysterectomy.

DESIGN

A prospective controlled study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

SETTING

A university teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

All patients who underwent radical hysterectomy as primary treatment for cervical cancer in our institution between May 1999 and June 2016, with a total of 188 patients.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients underwent ORH or minimally invasive surgery (MIS) (i.e., laparoscopic or robotically assisted radical hysterectomy).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Seventy-six patients underwent ORH, 90 laparoscopic radical hysterectomy, and 22 robotically assisted radical hysterectomy. Blood loss and hospital stay were inferior in the MIS group (p <.0001). The laparotomic group presented shorter operation times (p = .0001). With a median follow-up of 112.4 months, a total of 156 patients (83%) were alive and free of disease at the time of the data analysis. Overall survival was higher in the MIS group when compared with the ORH group (91 vs 78.9, p = .026). There were no differences regarding recurrence rates between the surgical approaches.

CONCLUSION

With 1 of the largest follow-up periods in the literature, this study provides added evidence that MIS could become the preferable surgical approach for early-stage cervical cancer since it appears to reduce morbidity without affecting oncologic results.

Initial Report of Sentinel Lymph Node Identification During Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy Using a New Gamma Probe Technology

BACKGROUND

The standard surgical procedure for early-stage cervical cancer is abdominal radical hysterectomy, including pelvic lymphadenectomy. Currently, minimally invasive surgical techniques for early cervical cancer are progressing; total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) is a possible alternative to abdominal surgery. In addition, sentinel node navigation surgery (SNNS), which can prevent lower limb edema, has been widely used for radical hysterectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A radioisotope is injected into the uterine cervix 1 day preoperatively and surgeons carefully identify the correct sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) to prevent picking up the cervical gamma rays during surgery.

RESULTS

It is difficult to identify SLNs in laparoscopic surgery compared to abdominal surgery using the traditional gamma probe, which has the sensor on the tip, since this probe picks up the gamma rays from the uterine cervix. We described 11 cases in which TLRH was combined with SNNS using a new device that accurately detects correct SLNs.

CONCLUSIONS

The SLNs were detected using a gamma probe that has a sensor built onto the side, without picking up the cervical gamma rays. We believe that the Neoprobe plays a crucial role in SNNS for accurately detecting SLNs and helping determine whether the patient needs to undergo SNNS.

Robot-assisted versus open radical hysterectomy: A multi-institutional experience for early-stage cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

To compare perioperative and clinico-pathological outcomes of patients with early-stage cervical cancer who underwent robot-assisted radical hysterectomy (RRH) and open radical hysterectomy (ORH).

METHODS

This retrospective multi-center study abstracted demographic, clinico-pathological and perioperative outcomes data from medical records of 491 cervical cancer patients treated with RRH (n = 259) ORH (n = 232) between 2005 and 2011 at two American and one Norwegian University Cancer Centres.

RESULTS

Mean estimated blood loss (EBL) and transfusion rates were less for RRH than for ORH (97 vs. 49 mL, p < 0.001, and 3% vs. 7%, p = 0.018, respectively). Mean length of hospital stay (LOS) was significantly shorter in RRH versus ORH (1.8 vs. 5.1 days, p < 0.001). Mean operative time was longer for RRH than ORH (220 vs. 156 min, p < 0.001). Although overall complications were similar (p = 0.49), intra-operative complications were less common in the RRH group than ORH (4% vs. 10%, p = 0.004). In multivariate regression analyses longer operative time, less EBL and intra-operative complications, shorter LOS, and more pre-operative cone were significantly associated with RRH versus ORH. Recurrence and death rates were not statistically different for the two groups at a mean follow-up time of 39 months (p = 1.00 and p = 0.48, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

RRH had improved clinical outcomes compared to ORH in the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer in terms of EBL, intra-operative complications, transfusion rates, LOS, and pre-operative cone. Disease recurrence and survival were comparable for the two procedures.

The surgical management of cervical cancer: an overview and literature review

IMPORTANCE

Surgery has evolved into the standard therapy for nonbulky carcinoma of the cervix. The mainstay of surgical management is radical hysterectomy; however, less radical procedures have a small but important role in the management of cervical tumors.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to discuss the literature behind the different procedures utilized in the management of cervical cancer, emphasizing the radical hysterectomy. In addition, we aimed to discuss ongoing trials looking at the utility of less radical surgeries as well as emerging technologies in the management of this disease.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We performed a PubMed literature search for articles in the English language that pertained to the topic of surgical techniques and their outcomes in the treatment of cervical cancer.

RESULTS

The minimally invasive approaches to radical hysterectomy appear to reduce morbidity without affecting oncological outcomes, although further data are needed looking at long-term outcomes with the robotic platform. Trials are currently ongoing looking at the role of less radical surgery for patients with low-risk disease and the feasibility of sentinel lymph node mapping.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy has evolved into the standard therapy for nonbulky disease, and there is a clear advantage in the use of minimally invasive techniques to perform these procedures. However, pending ongoing trials, less radical surgery in patients with low-risk invasive disease as well as sentinel lymph node mapping may emerge as standards of care in selected patients with cervical carcinoma.

Analgesic and antiemetic requirements after minimally invasive surgery for early cervical cancer: a comparison between laparoscopy and robotic surgery

BACKGROUND

Women with early cervical cancer undergoing radical hysterectomy via minimally invasive surgery (MIS) have decreased blood loss and a shorter hospital stay compared with laparotomy. It remains unclear whether there is a difference in benefit to the patient between robotic surgery and traditional laparoscopy. We sought to compare postoperative analgesic and antiemetic requirements between the two approaches.

METHODS

After institutional review board approval, the medication administration records of all patients who underwent MIS radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center were reviewed. Analgesic and antiemetic medication use as well as visual pain scores was recorded. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric tests were used to compare the groups undergoing laparoscopy (LRH) and robotic surgery (RRH).

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients underwent MIS for early cervical cancer, 55 LRH and 30 RRH. Median age was older in the RRH (42 vs. 52 years, p = 0.001). There was no difference in median body mass index (26.9 vs. 26.8 kg/m(2), p = 0.71). Length of stay was significantly shorter in the RRH (2 vs. 1 day, p = 0.005). Total intravenous opioids administered were significantly higher in the LRH (26.7 mg morphine equivalents) compared with the RRH (10.7 mg morphine equivalents) (p = 0.001). There was no difference in visual pain scores or antiemetics given.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous opioids administered were significantly less for RRH compared to LRH; however, there was no difference in visual pain scores. Prospective studies are being performed to evaluate quality of life in patients undergoing MIS for gynecologic cancers.

Vaginal-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomy: rationale, technique, results

The authors conclude that vaginal-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomy is an oncologic viable alternative to abdominal radical hysterectomy, laparoscopic-assisted radical vaginal hysterectomy, totally laparoscopic radical hysterectomy, and robotic radical hysterectomy.

Objective:

Total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) makes it difficult to resect adequate vaginal cuff according to tumor size and to avoid tumor spread after opening the vagina. Laparoscopic-assisted radical vaginal hysterectomy (LARVH) is associated with higher risk for urologic complications.

Methods:

The vaginal-assisted laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (VALRH) technique comprises 3 steps: (1) comprehensive laparoscopic staging, (2) creation of a tumor-adapted vaginal cuff, and (3) laparoscopic transsection of parametria. We retrospectively analyzed data of 122 patients who underwent VALRH for early stage cervical cancer (n=110) or stage II endometrial cancer (n=12) between January 2007 and December 2009 at Charité University Berlin.

Results:

All patients underwent VALRH without conversion. Mean operating time was 300 minutes, and mean blood loss was 123cc. On average, 36 lymph nodes were harvested. Intra- and postoperative complication rates were 0% and 13.1%, respectively. Resection was in sound margins in all patients. After median follow-up of 19 months, disease-free survival and overall survival for all 110 cervical cancer patients was 94% and 98%, and for the subgroup of patients (n=90) with tumors ≤pT1b1 N0 V0 L0/1 R0, 97% and 98%, respectively.

Conclusion:

VALRH is a valid alternative to abdominal radical hysterectomy and LARVH in patients with early-stage cervical cancer and endometrial cancer stage II with minimal intraoperative complications and identical oncologic outcomes.

Can laparoscopic radical hysterectomy be a standard surgical modality in stage IA2-IIA cervical cancer?

OBJECTIVES

To determine if laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) can be substituted for radical abdominal hysterectomy for women with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IA2-IIA cervical cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of cervical cancer patients who underwent LRH with laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy (LPL) and/or laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy (LPAL) from March 2003 to December 2011.

RESULTS

Of 118 enrolled patients, six were in FIGO stage IA2, 66 were in IB1, 41 were in IB2, one was in IIA1, and four were in IIA2. The median operating time, perioperative hemoglobin change, the number of harvested pelvic and para-aortic lymph nodes were 270 min (range, 120-495), 1.7 g/dL (range, 0.1-5), 26 (range, 9-55), and 7 (range, 1-39), respectively. There was no unplanned conversion to laparotomy. Intra- and postoperative complications occurred in 16 (13.5%) and 8 (6.7%) patients, respectively. In a median follow-up of 31 months (range, 1-89), 5-year recurrence-free and overall survival rates were 90% and 89%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that cervical stromal invasion (P=0.023) and lymph node metastasis (P=0.018) affected survival rate. Cox-proportional hazards regression analysis showed that lymph node metastasis was the only independent factor for poor prognosis (hazard ratio=7.0, P=0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

LRH with LPL and/or LPAL in women with stage IA2-IIA cervical cancer is safe and feasible in terms of survival and morbidity. Our data suggest the need for larger prospective trials which could support this approach as a new standard of care for stage IA2-IIA cervical cancer.

Surgical and Oncological Outcome of Total Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy in Obese Women With Early-Stage Cervical Cancer

Objective

To evaluate the clinical experience of the total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) for the surgical management of cervical cancer in obese (body mass index [BMI] >30 kg/m2) and nonobese (BMI <30 kg/m2) women.

Methods

Data were collected prospectively on intraoperative and postoperative parameters and complications for all women undergoing a TLRH for cervical cancer. Patients were classified as obese, BMI >30 kg/m2, or nonobese, BMI <30 kg/m2. Assessment of surgical radicality was made by comparing the excision specimens in the 2 groups with a cohort of open radical hysterectomy cases performed before the introduction of the TLRH.

Results

A total of 58 women underwent a TLRH; 15 (25.9%) were obese and 43 (74.1%) were in the nonobese group. There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss or median duration of surgery between the obese and nonobese groups. The median hospital stay in both groups was 3 days (range, 2–13 days). Four cases were converted to laparotomy (7%); all were in the nonobese group. Postoperatively, 3 patients developed ischemic ureterovaginal fistulae (5%) between days 5 and 7 after surgery; all were in the nonobese group. There was no significant difference in the parametrial length, maximum vaginal cuff length, and number of lymph nodes excised between the 2 groups. To date, there has been one recurrence during the median follow-up period of 19 months (range, 3–42 months). She belonged to the nonobese group.

Conclusions

The TLRH is a surgically safe procedure for early-stage cervical cancer. Obesity did not adversely affect the performance of TLRH or the radicality of the excision. In obese women, TLRH should be the favored route of surgery for all women who require a radical hysterectomy owing to its favorable perioperative outcome and short hospital stay.

Radical hysterectomy: a comparison of surgical approaches after adoption of robotic surgery in gynecologic oncology

OBJECTIVE

To compare intra-operative, postoperative and pathologic outcomes of three surgical approaches to radical hysterectomy and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection over a three year time period during which all three approaches were used.

METHODS

We reviewed all patients who underwent radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection between 1/2007 and 11/2010. Comparison was made between robotic, laparoscopic and open procedures in regard to surgical times, complication rates, and pathologic findings.

RESULTS

A total of 95 radical hysterectomy procedures were performed during the study period: 30 open (RAH), 31 laparoscopic (LRH) and 34 robotic (RRH). There were no differences in age, body mass index or other demographic factors between the groups. Operative time was significantly shorter in the RAH compared to LRH and RRH (265 vs 338 vs 328min, p=0.002). Estimated blood loss was significantly lower in LRH and RRH compared with RAH (100 vs 100 vs 350mL, p<0.001). Thirteen (24%) of RAH required blood transfusion. Conversion rates were higher in the LRH (16%) compared to RRH (3%) although not significant (p=0.10). Median length of stay was significantly shorter in RRH (1day) vs LRH or RAH (2 vs 4days, p<0.01). Pathologic findings were similar among all groups.

CONCLUSION

Minimally invasive surgery has made a significant impact on patients undergoing radical hysterectomy including decrease in blood loss and transfusion rates however; operative times were significantly longer compared to open radical hysterectomy. Our findings suggest that the robotic approach may have the added benefit of even shorter length of stay compared to traditional laparoscopy.

Role of robotic surgery in urogynecologic surgery and radical hysterectomy: how far can we go?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose is to review the current literature regarding robotic assistance in urogynecologic surgery and radical pelvic surgery and to discuss the future of robotics in these two areas of gynecology.

RECENT FINDINGS

When the first and only Food and Drug Administration-approved robot-assisted device, the daVinci surgical system, was approved for use in gynecology in April 2005, many procedures were translated to a robotic approach. In the field of urogynecology, much attention was given to the use of robotic assistance for sacrocolpopexy. In oncology, there was an attraction to the use of robotics for radical hysterectomies. There are a number of published observational studies comparing the outcomes of both robot-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (RALS) and robot-assisted radical hysterectomy (RRH) to their conventional laparoscopic and open versions. Overall, the literature suggests that the use of robotics for these procedures increases operative time and cost, but decreases estimated blood loss and length of stay. The complication rates appear to be similar. Recurrence of apical prolapse after RALS appears to be similar to that in conventional laparoscopic or open sacrocolpopexy. The number of lymph nodes harvested is the same or increases with RRH, whereas the disease-free progression and overall survival are similar for all the methods of radical hysterectomy.

SUMMARY

Literature suggests that RALS and RRH have equivalent outcomes when compared to conventional laparoscopic and open techniques. The question is whether the use of robotics that combines the outcomes of an open procedure, the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, and easy adoptability will outweigh the increased cost and time associated with robotic surgery.

Total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy for treatment of uterine malignant tumors: analysis of short-term therapeutic efficacy

To investigate the efficacy and the clinical value of total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) for the treatment of uterine malignancies, we performed a retrospective review of 87 patients with cervical cancer and 23 patients with endometrial carcinoma who underwent TLRH at Union hospital between June 2008 and September 2009. Data collected included operative time, estimated blood loss, lymph node count, time for the recovery of normal temperature and time to resumption of normal bladder function, intraoperative and postoperative complications. The procedure was completed laparoscopically in 108 patients. Two patients were converted to laparotomy due to common iliac vein injury. The mean overall operative time was 200.6+/-38.6 min; the mean operative blood loss was 280.5+/-128.3 mL; he mean number of pelvic lymph nodes that were resected wa26. 0+/-5.8. The time for recovery of normal temperature and the normal bladder function after the operation was 5.8+/-2.9 d and 15.2+/-4.3 d. There were 2 (1.8%) common iliac vein injuries during the operation and 10 (9.1%) bladder retentions post operation. It was concluded that TLRH is feasible, minimally invasive and provides promise for the treatment of uterine malignancies.

Videolaparoscopic radical hysterectomy approach: a ten-year experience

BACKGROUND

Because of the advancements in surgical techniques and laparoscopic instruments, total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy can now be performed for the treatment of uterine cervical carcinoma. We assessed the feasibility, complications, and survival rates of patients who underwent total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data from the medical charts of 29 patients who had undergone surgery between 1998 and 2008. The following data were assessed: age, staging, histological type, number of lymph nodes retrieved, parametrial measures, operative time, length of hospital stay, surgical complications, and disease-free time.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 37.07+/-10.45 years. Forty percent of the patients had previously undergone abdominal or pelvic surgeries. Mean operative time was 228.96+/-60.41 minutes, and mean retrieved lymph nodes was 16.9+/-8.12. All patients had free margins. No conversions to laparotomy were necessary. Median time until hospital dismissal was 6.5 days (range 3-38 days). Four patients had intraoperative complications: 2 lacerations of the rectum, 1 laceration of the bladder, and 1 lesion of the ureter. Three patients developed bladder or ureteral fistulas postoperatively that were successfully corrected surgically.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic radical hysterectomy is feasible and has acceptable complications. The radicalism of the surgery must be considered, bearing in mind the parametrial measures and the number of lymph nodes retrieved.

Complications of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy--experience of 117 patients

OBJECTIVE

To describe the combined surgical technique of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy (LRH + LPL) for cervical cancers and summarize our experiences in prevention and treatment of complications, so as to provide strategies to prevent and appropriately manage the complications that may occur during these procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on LRH + LPL in 117 cases of cervical cancer with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages Ib (n = 96) and II a (n = 21) from August 1998 to December 2006. The intraoperative and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall conversion rate was 1.7% (2/117). Four patients had vessel injuries, 3 of which were treated laparoscopically. One patient had a common iliac vein laceration that could not be controlled laparoscopically after failing to deal with the injured branch of common iliac vein. Cystotomy occurred in 5 patients. One case of stage IIa with a bladder laceration longer than 3 cm was converted to laparotomy during the early stages of the learning curve. The remaining 4 were managed laparoscopically. Postoperative complications occurred in 38.5% (n = 45) of the patients, including 38 patients with urinary retention who exhibited complete resolution within 6 months by intermittent training and catheterization, 4 with lymphocyst who underwent conservation treatment, 1 with ureteral fistula that was treated by cystoscopic placement of double-J ureteral stents, 1 with mild adynamic bowel obstruction who received conservative management, and 1 with vesicovaginal fistula that was closed by conservative treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

With the continuous skilled laparoscopic technology, mastering the tips of prevention, and treatment of complications, LRH + LPL will be widely performed in the future.

Robotic approach for cervical cancer: comparison with laparotomy: a case control study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the surgical outcome of robotic radical hysterectomy (RRH) versus abdominal radical hysterectomy (ARH) for the treatment of early stage cervical cancer.

METHODS

A prospective collection of data of all RRH for stages IA2-IIA cervical cancer was done. The procedures were performed at the European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy, between November 1, 2006 and February 1, 2009.

RESULTS

A total of 40 RRH were analyzed, and compared with 40 historic ARH cases. The groups did not differ significantly in body mass index, stage, histology, or intraoperative complications, but in age (p=0.035). The mean (SD) operative time was significantly shorter for ARH than RRH, 199.6 (65.6) minutes and 272.27 (42.3) minutes respectively (p=0.0001). The mean (SD) estimated blood loss (EBL) was 78 ml (94.8) in RRH group and 221.8 ml (132.4) in ARH. This difference was statistically significant in favor of RRH group (p<0.0001). Statistically significantly higher number of pelvic lymph nodes was removed by ARH than by RRH, mean (SD) 26.2 (11.7) versus 20.4 (6.9), p<0.05. Mean length of stay was significantly shorter for the RRH group (3.7 versus 5.0 days, p<0.01). There was no significant difference in terms of postoperative complications between groups.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that RRH is safe and feasible. However, a comparison of oncologic outcomes and cost-benefit analysis is still needed and it has to be carefully evaluated in the future.

Total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy versus abdominal radical hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy in patients with early cervical cancer: our experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare, in a series of 127 consecutive women, the safety, morbidity, and recurrence rate of total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) with lymphadenectomy and abdominal radical hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy (ARH) for early cervical carcinoma.

METHODS

A total of 127 consecutive patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage Ia1 (lymphvascular space involvement), Ia2, and Ib1 early cervical cancer, 65 of whom underwent TLRH and 62 of whom underwent ARH with pelvic lymph node dissection, comprised the study population. The para-aortic lymphadenectomy with the superior border of the dissection being the inferior mesenteric artery was performed in all cases with positive pelvic lymph nodes discovered at frozen section evaluation.

RESULTS

The median blood loss in the ARH group (145 ml; range, 60-225 ml) was significantly greater than TLRH group (55 ml; range, 30-80 ml) (P < .01). The median length of hospital stay was significantly greater in the ARH group (7 days; range, 5-9 days) than TLRH group (4 days; range, 3-7 days) (P < .01). The median operating time was 196 min in the TLRH group (range, 182-240 min) compared with 152 min in the ARH group (range, 161-240 min) (P < .01). No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups when the recurrence rate was compared.

CONCLUSIONS

Total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy is a safe and effective therapeutic procedure for management of early-stage cervical cancer with a far lower morbidity than reported for the open approach and is characterized by far less blood loss and shorter postoperative hospitalization time, although multicenter randomized clinical trials with longer follow-up are necessary to evaluate the overall oncologic outcomes of this procedure.

Trends in laparoscopic and robotic surgery among gynecologic oncologists: A survey update

OBJECTIVES

To assess the use of traditional and robotic assisted laparoscopy by Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) members and to compare the results with those of our published survey in 2004.

METHODS

Surveys were mailed to SGO members, and anonymous responses were collected by mail or through a web site. Data were analyzed and compared with those of our previous survey. In addition, we gathered information on the effect of robotic assisted surgery on the management of gynecologic malignancies.

RESULTS

Three hundred eighty-eight (46%) of 850 SGO members responded to the survey. Three hundred fifty-two (91%) indicated that they performed laparoscopic surgery in their practice (compared with 84% in the 2004 survey). The three most common laparoscopic procedures were laparoscopic hysterectomy and staging for uterine cancer (43%), diagnostic laparoscopy for adnexal masses (39%), and prophylactic bilateral oophorectomy for high-risk women (11%). Although 76% of respondents had received either limited or no laparoscopic training during their fellowship, 78% now believe that maximum or much emphasis should be placed on laparoscopic training (55% in the 2004 survey). Twenty-four percent of respondents indicated that they performed robotic assisted surgery, with 66% indicating that they planned to increase their use of the procedure in the next year.

CONCLUSIONS

We found an overall increase in the use of and perceived indications for minimally invasive surgery in gynecologic oncology among SGO members. Endometrial cancer staging has become an accepted indication for laparoscopy. In addition, most respondents were planning on increasing their use of robotic assisted surgery in the next year.

A case-control study of robot-assisted type III radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection compared with open radical hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare robotically assisted hysterectomy (RAH) with open (ORH) type III radical hysterectomy in the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

The outcomes of 51 consecutive patients who underwent RAH were compared with the outcomes of 49 patients who underwent ORH.

RESULTS

There were no differences with regard to patient demographics. There were significant differences between the groups with regard to operative blood loss (P < .0001), operative time (P = .0002), and lymph node retrieval (P = .0003), all of which were in favor of the RAH cohort. All patients with RAH were discharged on postoperative day 1, compared with a 3.2-day average hospitalization for the cohort with ORH. The incidence of postoperative complications was 7.8% and 16.3% for the RAH and ORH cohorts, respectively (P = .35).

CONCLUSION

Robotic type III radical hysterectomy with pelvic node dissection is feasible and may be preferable over open radical hysterectomy in patients with early-stage cervical cancer. Further study will determine procedure generalizability and long-term oncologic outcomes.

Robotic radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy for uterine rhabdomyosarcoma

Mullerian rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare malignancy most commonly diagnosed in childhood and adolescence. RMS of the female genital tract is often difficult to diagnose. Treatment includes chemotherapy with adjuvant surgery and/or radiation therapy reserved for persistent disease. We report a case of an 18-year-old African-American female who presented with severe menometrorrhagia, and was diagnosed with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the uterus. After vincristine, dactinomycin, and cyclophosphamide failed to eradicate the central tumor, she underwent a robotic radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy. Mullerian rhabdomyosarcoma was once managed with multimodality therapy that often included ultraradical surgery including total pelvic exenteration. Surgical procedures that were exclusively performed via large abdominal incisions can now be completed with minimally invasive techniques. Robotic surgery can be safely and successfully applied to radical hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy for uterine rhabdomyosarcoma.

The outcome of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy for cervical cancer: a prospective analysis of 295 patients

OBJECTIVES

Cervical carcinoma is likely to become one of the most important indications for laparoscopic radical surgery. The laparoscopic technique combines the benefits of a minimally invasive approach with established surgical principles. In our institution, the laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and transperitoneal approach for lymphadenectomy have become the standard techniques for invasive cervical cancer. We report the indications, techniques, results, and oncological outcome in a single center experience.

METHODS

Between February 2001 and June 2007 we performed laparoscopic radical hysterectomies for cervical cancer in 295 patients. Their initial techniques, operation data, complications, postoperative course, oncological outcome, and survival were evaluated.

RESULTS

Out of 295 procedures, 290 were successful. Para-aortic lymphadenectomy was performed in 156 patients (52.9%), and pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in all 295 patients. The median blood loss was 230 mL (range, 50-1200 mL). The mean operation time was 162 min (range, 110-350), which included the learning curves of 3 surgeons. In 5 cases (1.7%), conversion to open surgery was necessary due to bleeding (3 cases), bowel injury (1 case), and hypercapnia (1 case). Other major intraoperative injuries occurred in 12 patients (4.1%). Positive lymph nodes were detected in 80 cases (27.1%), lymphovascular space invasion in 54 cases (18.3%), and surgical margins were negative for tumor in all patients. The mean hospital stay was 10.3 days. Postoperative complications occurred in 10.8% patients, ureterovaginal fistula in 5 cases, vesicovaginal fistula in 4, ureterostenosis in 3 cases, deep venous thrombosis in 9 cases, lymphocyst in 4 cases, lymphedema in 5 cases, and 1 case with trocar insertion site metastasis. Other medical problems included 47 cases (15.9%) of bladder dysfunction and 62 cases (21.0%) of rectum dysfunction or constipation. The median follow-up was 36.45 months (range, 8-76 months). Recurrences or metastasis occurred in 48 patients (16.3%). Of these patients, 43 (14.6%) have died of their disease, and 5 (1.7%) are alive with disease. The overall disease-free survival was 95.2% for Ia, 96.2% for Ib, 84.5% for IIa, 79.4% for IIb, 66.7% for IIIa, and 60.0% for IIIb.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic radical hysterectomy is a routine, effective treatment for patients with Ia2-IIb cervical carcinoma. With more experience it is envisaged that IIb stage patients can be managed safely offering all the benefits of minimal surgery to the patients. Although no long-term follow-up is available, our follow-up data for up to 76 months confirm the effectiveness of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy in terms of surgical principles and oncological outcome.

Surgicopathologic outcome of laparoscopic versus open radical hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

To compare the surgicopathologic outcome of total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) with that of abdominal radical hysterectomy (ARH) for the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer.

METHODS

Radical hysterectomy specimens of sequential patients undergoing LRH (N=50) were compared with those of historical controls selected from consecutive women who have had conventional ARH (N=48), and who met the same criteria for eligibility as the cases. To evaluate the extent of parametrial resection, parametrial tissues were systematically measured at their widest dimensions before tissue processing.

RESULTS

No difference was found in demographics, histologic type, tumor stage and grade between the two groups. The parametrial width was similar between LRH and ARH in both type II (right parametrium: 2.4 cm (1-3) vs. 2.3 (1.8-4.0), p=0.28; left parametrium: 2.3 cm (1.8-4) vs. 2.2 (1.2-3.0), p=0.54) and type III radical hysterectomy (right parametrium: 3.8 cm (2.3-6.5) vs. 3.4 (1.7-7.0), p=0.59; left parametrium: 3.6 cm (2-6) vs. 3.5 (1.5-6.5), p=0.82). There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to lymph nodes yield and likelihood of identifying positive margins or metastatic disease.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that laparoscopically managed patients with cervical cancer undergo a similar extent of surgery as those treated with the traditional ARH, as judged by objective pathologic criteria.

Feasibility, morbidity, and safety of total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy: Our experience

STUDY OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate, in a series of 65 patients, the feasibility, morbidity, and safety of total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy for early cervical carcinoma.

DESIGN

Retrospective, nonrandomized study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

SETTING

Advanced Gynecological Endoscopy Center, Malzoni Medical Center, Avellino, Italy.

PATIENTS

Sixty-five nonconsecutive patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage Ia1 with lymphvascular space involvement, Ia2, and Ib1 early cervical cancer.

INTERVENTION

Fourteen patients underwent a laparoscopic class II procedure, and 51 patients underwent a class III procedure according to the Piver classification. All the patients underwent total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy during the study period, and none of the surgeries required conversion to laparotomy. Paraaortic lymphadenectomy is not routinely performed unless suspicious pelvic lymph nodes are confirmed to have metastatic disease on frozen section evaluation.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Fifty-six patients had squamous cell carcinoma; 7 patients had adenocarcinomas, and 2 had adenosquamous carcinoma. The mean age was 40.5 years (95% CI 27.7-69.1) and the SD was +/- 7.5. The median weight was 56.2 kg (range 44-75 kg). The median operative time was 196 minutes (range 182-240 minutes), and the surgical margins were free of disease in all cases. The median blood loss was 55 mL (range 30-80 mL). No patient required an intraoperative blood transfusion. The median length of hospital stay was 4 days (range 3-7 days).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic treatment of cervical cancer offers patients the potential benefits of decreased discomfort with decreased convalescence time, but it should be reserved for oncologic surgeons trained in extensive laparoscopic procedures.

A case-controlled study of total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy versus radical abdominal hysterectomy in a fellowship training program

To determine whether total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) is a feasible alternative to an abdominal radical hysterectomy (ARH) in a gynecologic oncology fellowship training program. We prospectively collected cases of all of the patients with cervical cancer treated with TLRH and pelvic lymphadenectomy by our division from 2000 to 2006. All of the patients from the TLRH group were matched 1:1 with the patients who had ARH during the same period based on stage, age, histological subtype, and nodal status. Thirty patients were treated with TLRH with a mean age of 48.3 years (range, 29–78 years). The mean pelvic lymph node count was 31 (range, 10–61) in the TLRH group versus 21.8 (range, 8–42) (P < 0.01) in the ARH group. Mean estimated blood loss was 200 cc (range, 100–600 cc) in the TLRH with no transfusions compared to 520 cc in the ARH group (P < 0.01), in which five patients required transfusions. Mean operating time was 318.5 min (range, 200–464 min) compared to 242.5 min in the ARH group (P < 0.01), and mean hospital stay was 3.8 days (range, 2–11 days) compared to 5.6 days in the ARH group (P < 0.01). All TLRH cases were completed laparoscopically. All patients in the TLRH group are disease free at the time of this report. In conclusion, it is feasible to incorporate TLRH training into the surgical curriculum of gynecologic oncology fellows without increasing perioperative morbidity. Standardization of TLRH technique and consistent guidance by experienced faculty is imperative.

A comparison of urinary complications following total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy to open abdominal surgery

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (TLRH) and laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy (LPS) to total abdominal radical hysterectomy (TARH) and pelvic lymphadenectomy (LPT) in terms of urinary tract lesions and postoperative urinary retention.

METHODS

Starting in 2004, we treated all early stage cervical cancer patients with TLRH and LPS. The control group for this analysis was a historical cohort of patients treated with TARH+LPT. Within the TLRH+LPS group, we assessed whether the width of parametrial tissue removed was a risk factor for urinary tract injuries or postoperative urinary retention.

RESULTS

Fifty women were included in the TLRH+LPS group and forty-eight were included in the TARH+LPT group. There were no conversions from laparoscopy to laparotomy. There was no statistically significant difference in intraoperative urinary complications between the groups. Four (8%) intraoperative urinary tract injuries in the LPS (3 cystotomies and 1 ureteral lesions all repaired laparoscopically) and 2 (4.2%) in the LPT group (2 cystotomies) occurred (p=0.68). Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference in postoperative urinary complications between groups. Urinary postoperative complications were: 1 (2%) ureterovaginal and 1 vesicovaginal fistulas, 1 delayed ureteric fistula in LPS group vs. 0 in LPT group (p=0.24). Urinary retention was complained by 7 (14%) and 7 (14.6%) patients in LPS and LPT groups respectively (p=1.00). The average width of parametrial tissue removed in the LPS group was 32.2+14.0 mm in patients with vs. 39.5+13.6 mm in patients without urinary complications (p=0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

A laparoscopic approach is comparable to the laparotomy in terms of urinary lesions and postoperative retention. The width of parametrium removed does not affect the risk of urinary lesions or postoperative retention.