Total laparoscopic hysterectomy for enlarged uteri: factors associated with the rate of conversion to open surgery

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.

A Vagino-Laparoscopic Strategy for Hysterectomy of Large Uteri to Ease Surgical Challenges

Purpose

To develop a vagino-laparoscopic strategy for hysterectomy (VLH) to treat uteri with large fibroids at ≥ 16 weeks of gestation to ease surgical challenges.

Patients and Methods

This was an observational study conducted in our private general hospital on 64 consecutive cases involving uteri with large and benign fibroids at ≥ 16 weeks of gestation. We excluded cases with an associated ventro-fixed uterus and large cervical fibroids.

Interventions

The VLH strategy involves vaginal separation of the uterosacral with the uterine arteries followed by laparoscopic separation of the remaining upper pedicles. The uterus was then removed vaginally.

Results

The largest uteri receiving treatment was at 26 weeks of gestation and the mean uterus weight was 869.60 ± 275.10 g (range: 500-1900 g). The VLH strategy was successful in 63 (98.43%) cases irrespective of the configuration of the uterus. One case (1.56%) required mini-laparotomy conversion due to the need for adhesiolysis; this case exhibited extensive adhesion of the rectum to the posterior wall of the uterus due to a history of previous myomectomy of the posterior wall. There were no conversions due to failed laparoscopic exposure of the adnexal or uterine vascular pedicles, or due to uncontrolled intraoperative bleeding. There were no cases of urinary tract injury or other major complications. The vaginal detachment of uterosacral ligaments before the laparoscopic phase of the VLH strategy increased upwards mobility and dislodged the cervico-isthmic level of large uteri from the narrow lower aspect of the pelvis to the upper wider part of the pelvis; this eased the surgical challenges associated with such cases and avoided complications during laparoscopy.

Conclusion

We developed a vagino-laparoscopic strategy for hysterectomy that can ease the technical challenges associated with the majority of large uteri.

Does uterus volume affect the total laparoscopic hysterectomy outcomes?

Background/Aim: Increased uterus weight, high body mass index (BMI), and history of abdominal surgeries increase the risk of complications in total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH), similar to other types of surgery. However, there are conflicting reports about improving technology. This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the clinical features and postoperative results of TLH cases regarding uterine volume performed for benign reasons in our clinic. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 252 patients were included. The demographic data of all patients, including BMI, pre-operative uterine volumes, operation times, number of cesarean sections, history of lower abdominal operation, indications, pre-operative and postoperative hemoglobin differences, complications, length of hospital stay, and final pathologies were reviewed. The uterine volume was measured using the prolate ellipsoid formula before surgery, using the maximum length and anteroposterior and transverse diameters of the uterine corpus. The normal uterine volume with these measurements (8 cm long, 4 cm high, and 5 cm wide) was estimated as 83.2 cm3. The patients were classified into two groups according to uterine volume (normal volume ≤ 83.2 or above). Surgical outcomes of patients were compared between groups. Results: Two-hundred-fifty-two women were included in the study. The mean uterine volumes of groups 1 and 2 were 53.66 cm3 (2.25) and 296.33 cm3 (6.25), respectively. In group 1, the mean operation time was 111.14 (6) min, compared to 118.2 (3.06) min in group 2; there was no significant difference (P = 0.164). The mean postoperative hospital stays of groups 1 and 2 were 3.21 (0.15) and 3.34 (0.09) days, respectively, and there was no significant difference (P = 0.706). The mean blood loss values of groups 1 and 2 were 1.34 g/dl (0.19) and 1.16 g/dl 0.06), respectively. Conclusion: According to our results, TLH is a safe method even in patients with a larger uterus; operating time, blood loss, and postoperative hospital stays did not differ according to uterine volume.

Retrospective Analysis of the Effect of Lidocaine Combined with Methylprednisolone on Pain Control After Uterine Artery Embolization

Background

The analgesic effect produced by the intra-arterial injection of lidocaine in patients undergoing uterine artery embolization has been proven to be safe and effective. Nevertheless, a significant degree of pain is typically experienced after the operation, and pain management is crucial. Methylprednisolone, which provides an anti-inflammatory effect, is widely used in the treatment of several diseases. To date, methylprednisolone has not been used after uterine artery embolization.

Methods

A total of 131 patients with uterine leiomyoma were retrospectively enrolled. Forty-five patients (control group) were treated with embolized microspheres for bilateral uterine artery embolization. Fifty (study group) and 36 (lidocaine group) patients were administered lidocaine mixed with embolized microspheres during embolization, and in addition, the study group was administered methylprednisolone. Completed pain scales at different time points during surgery were obtained from patients undergoing uterine artery embolization. Efficacy against pain was evaluated by comparing the pain score, inflammatory index, and use of sufentanil within 24 h followed by a Kruskal-Wallis Test and a least significant difference post-hoc analysis.

Results

The postoperative pain scores at 1, 4, and 7 h after uterine artery embolization in the study group (3.08 ± 2.09, 2.46 ± 1.93, and 2.38 ± 1.85, respectively) were significantly lower than those in the control group (4.84 ± 2.36, 4.16 ± 1.87, and 3.56 ± 1.93, respectively) and the lidocaine group (3.50 ± 2.10, 3.30 ± 1.88, and 3.28 ± 1.89, respectively). At the first 24 h after embolization, the total usage of sufentanil in the study group (31.4 ± 4.16) was significantly lower than those in the control group (45.7 ± 6.51) and the lidocaine group (38.3 ± 6.25). At 1 and 4 h, the pain scores of the lidocaine group were significantly lower than those of the control group. In addition, at the first 24 h after embolization, the total usage of sufentanil in the lidocaine group was significantly lower than that in the control group.

Conclusion

Lidocaine in combination with methylprednisolone can significantly alleviate pain and reduce the usage of sufentanil after bilateral uterine artery embolization. Thus, methylprednisolone is a recommended addition to the therapeutic regimen after embolization.

Ultra-minimally invasive surgery in gynecological patients: a review of the literature

In the last decade, Ultra-minimally invasive surgery (UMIS) including both minilaparoscopic (MH) and percutaneous (PH) endoscopic surgery achieved widespread use around the world. Despite UMIS has been reported as safe and feasible surgical procedure, most of the available data are drawn from retrospective studies, with a limited number of cases and heterogeneous surgical procedures included in the analysis. This literature review aimed to analyze the most methodologically valid studies concerning major gynecological surgeries performed in UMIS. A literature review was performed double blind from January to April 2021. The keywords ‘minilaparoscopy’; ‘ultra minimally invasive surgery’; ‘3 mm’; ‘percutaneous’; and ‘Hysterectomy’ were selected in Pubmed, Medscape, Scopus, and Google scholar search engines. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed for the drafting of the systematic review. The systematic literature research provided 298 studies, of which 9 fell within the inclusion criteria. Two hundred ninety-six total patients were included, 148 for both PH and MH groups. Median age (48 years), BMI (24 kg/m²), OT (90 min), EBL (50 ml), time to discharge (1 day), self scar evaluation (10/10), and VAS (3/10) were reported. The most frequent intraoperative complication in both the PH and MH groups was surgical bleeding. The UMIS approaches were feasible and safe even for complex gynecological procedures. Operative times and complications were superimposable to the “classical” minimally invasive approaches reported in the literature. The reported results apply only to experienced surgeons.

Personalising the risk of conversion from laparoscopic to open hysterectomy in benign conditions: Development and external validation of risk prediction models

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate novel prediction models to personalise the risk of conversion from laparoscopic to open hysterectomy in benign conditions.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

English NHS Hospitals between 2011 and 2018.

POPULATION

68 752 women undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign conditions.

METHODS

We developed two multivariable logistic models using readily available clinical information, one for the pre-operative setting and another for operative decision-making using additional surgical information, using 2011-2016 data in five regions (24 806 women). We validated them (a) temporally in the same regions using 2017-2018 data (12 438 women); (b) geographically in the same time-period using data from three different regions (22 024 women); and (c) temporally and geographically using 2017-2018 data in three different regions (9484 women).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Conversion from laparoscopic to open hysterectomy.

RESULTS

Conversions occurred in 6.8% (1687/24 806) of hysterectomies in the development group, and in 5.5% (681/12 438) in the temporal, 5.9% (1297/22 204) in the geographical and 5.2% (488/9484) in the temporal and geographical validation groups. In the development cohort, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for the pre-operative and operative models were 0.65 and 0.67, respectively. In the validation cohorts the corresponding values were 0.65 and 0.66 (temporal), 0.66 and 0.68 (geographical) and 0.65 and 0.68 (temporal and geographical), respectively. Factors predictive of conversion included age, Asian ethnicity, obesity, fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis and adhesions. Adhesions were the most predictive (odds ratio 2.54, 95% confidence interval 2.22-2.90).

CONCLUSION

The models for predicting conversions showed acceptable performance and transferability.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Novel tool to personalise the risk of conversion from laparoscopic to open hysterectomy in benign conditions.

Sentinel Lymph Node in Aged Endometrial Cancer Patients "The SAGE Study": A Multicenter Experience

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of endometrial cancer is increasing in elderly people. Considering that aging progressively affects lymphatic draining function, we aimed to define its impact on IGC uptake during SLN mapping.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective cohort of endometrial cancer patients with apparently early-stage endometrial cancer undergoing complete surgical staging with SLN dissection was identified in four referral cancer centers from May 2015 to March 2021. Patients were classified in Group 1 (<65 years old) and Group 2 (≥65 years old). The primary endpoint was the assessment of the overall, bilateral, and unsuccessful SLN mapping in the two groups. Secondary outcomes were the evaluation of SLN anatomical distribution and the identification of predictors for mapping failure applying a logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 844 patients were enrolled in the study (499 in Group 1 and 395 in Group 2). The overall detection rate, the successful bilateral mapping, and the mapping failure rate of the SLN were 93.8% vs. 87.6% (p = 0.002), 77.1% vs. 66.8% (p = 0.001), and 22.9% vs. 33.2% (p = 0.001), respectively, in Group 1 vs. Group 2. The advanced age affects the anatomical distribution of the SLN leading to a stepwise reduction of "unexpected" mapping sites (left hemipelvis: p < 0.001; right hemipelvis: p = 0.058). At multivariate analysis age ≥ 65 (OR: 1.495, 95% CI: 1.095-2.042, p = 0.011), BMI (OR: 1.023, 95% CI: 1.000-1.046, p = 0.047), non-endometrioid histotype (OR: 1.619, 95% CI: 1.067-2.458, p = 0.024), and LVSI (OR: 1.407, 95% CI: 1.010-1.961, p = 0.044) represent independent predictors of unsuccessful mapping. Applying binomial logistic regression analysis, there was a 1.280-fold increase in the risk of failed mapping for every 10-year-old increase in age (OR: 1.280, 95% CI: 1.108-1.479, p = 0.001). A higher rate of surgical under-staging (0.9% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.012) and adjuvant undertreatment (p = 0.018) was reported in Group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Old age represents a risk factor for SLN mapping failure both intrinsically and in relation to the greater incidence of other independent risk factors such as LVSI, non-endometrioid histotype, and BMI. Surgeons should target the usual uptake along UPP during the SLN dissection in this subgroup of patients to minimize mapping failure and the consequent risk of surgical under-staging and adjuvant undertreatment.

Subcutaneous Vulvar Flap Viability Evaluation With Near-Infrared Probe and Indocyanine Green for Vulvar Cancer Reconstructive Surgery: A Feasible Technique

Introduction: Vulvar cancer is a rare condition affecting older women and accounts for 3-5% of all gynecological cancers. Primary surgical treatment involves the removal of a large amount of tissue for which reconstructive surgery is often necessary with a high rate of postoperative complications. Despite several techniques for the evaluation of vulvar flap viability have been proposed, many methods cannot be performed during surgery and require expensive devices often missing in a gynecological clinic. This study aims to verify the feasibility and the safety of the vulvar flap viability evaluation through a near-infrared endoscopic probe and Indocyanine green (ICG) tracer in a small group of patients and to evaluate long-term vulvar flap outcomes. Methods: Patients with primary vulvar cancer who required surgical treatment and subsequent vulvar flap reconstructive surgery were prospectively included in the study. A 25 mg ICG vial diluted in 20 ml of saline solution was intravenously infused before closing the skin edges of the flaps. All patients were given 0.2 mg/kg body weight of intravenous ICG. After 10-15 min, a near-infrared endoscopic probe was used to evaluate the vulvar flap viability. Results: Of the 18 patients who underwent radical vulvectomy for vulvar cancer during the study period, 15 were included in the analysis. All packaged surgical flaps showed tracer uptake on the surgical margin. No intro-operative complications were recorded neither surgery-related nor to dye infusion. No surgical infection, dehiscence, or necrosis was recorded. Conclusions: Vulvar flap viability assessment using Indocyanine green and a laparoscopic infrared probe is a feasible method. All cases included in the analysis showed a dye uptake on the surgical edge of the flap. Further, prospective studies are needed to confirm the method in clinical practice and to evaluate its superiority over simple subjective clinical evaluation.

The Large Uterus Classification System: a prospective observational study

Objective

To investigate the Large Uterus Classification System (LUCS) ability to predict surgical outcomes and complications in total laparoscopic hysterectomies (TLHs) for large uteri.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Two referral centres.

Population or sample

Three hundred and ninety‐two women who underwent TLH for a large uterus (uterine fundus at or over the transverse umbilical line).

Methods

Between 2004 and 2019, the intraoperative LUCS was estimated in all patients. The LUCS considers the uterine and adnexal vascular pedicles displacement. Type 1 is without vascular pedicles displacement. Type 2 has the cephalad displacement of adnexal vascular pedicles. The uterine vessels displacement regardless of adnexal pedicles defines Type 3.

Main outcome measures

Patients’ characteristics with perioperative outcomes were prospectively collected and compared between the three types of large uteri.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐one (64%), 82 (20.9%) and 59 (15.1%) women had Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 uteri, respectively. Women with Type 1 uteri had a lower uterine weight, shorter operative time, less blood loss and lower complication rates than women with Types 2 and 3. The conversion rate to laparotomy in Type 1 was similar to that in Type 2 (odds ratio [OR] 0.98; 95% CI 0.32–3.56) but lower than Type 3 (OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.14–0.97); in Type 2 it was lower than Type 3, although without the conventional statistical significance (OR 0.36; 95% CI 0.13–1.13; P = 0.07). Multivariable analysis showed that the uterine Type (1 versus 2–3) was independently associated with the total complications rate (OR 2.00; 95% CI 1.09–3.68; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

The LUCS appears associated with surgical outcomes and complications, potentially stratifying the surgical risk and guiding the surgical technique in TLHs for large uteri.

Tweetable abstract

The Large Uterus Classification System may predict outcomes in total laparoscopic hysterectomy of large uteri.

The Large Uterus Classification System may predict outcomes in total laparoscopic hysterectomy of large uteri.

Risk Factors and Outcomes of Conversion to Open Surgery in Benign Gynecologic Laparoscopies: A Case-Control Study

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To describe cases of conversion from gynecologic laparoscopy to open surgery and to assess risk factors for conversion and conversion outcomes.

DESIGN

A retrospective case-control study.

SETTING

Tertiary referral hospital in Melbourne, Australia.

PATIENTS

Eighty-five cases of conversion from laparoscopy to laparotomy and 170 controls matched by age, surgical date, and gynecologic unit from 2006 to 2017.

INTERVENTIONS

Demographic, clinical, and surgical data were collected and compared between the study groups. Logistic regression was performed to identify preoperative and intraoperative risk factors for conversion.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Rate of conversion during the study period was 0.7%. The most common indication for conversion was unexpected surgical complexity (67% of cases), which included severe adhesive disease, specimen size, severe pathology, and inadequate views. Factors that were significantly associated with risk of conversion in multivariate analysis were previous pelvic inflammatory disease (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35-19.71; p = .02), previous open surgery (aOR 3.62; 95% CI, 1.52-8.58; p <.01), history of endometriosis (aOR 2.96; 95% CI, 1.17-7.50; p = .02), and elevated body mass index (aOR 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.13; p = .02). As compared with current surgery for endometriosis, odds of conversion were higher in surgeries for emergency indications (aOR 5.40; 95% CI, 1.53-18.98; p <.01), uterine pathologies (aOR 3.34; 95% CI, 1.10-10.12; p = .03), and adnexal pathologies (aOR 2.76; 95% CI, 1.19-6.40; p = .02). With the inclusion of intraoperative factors, surgical adhesions were also found to be associated with conversion (aOR 3.19; 95% CI, 1.30-7.85; p = .01). Most skilled laparoscopic surgeon level as defined by the Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopy and Surgery Society was not associated with conversion risk. Conversion to laparotomy was associated with a higher rate of intraoperative and postoperative complications and prolonged length of stay.

CONCLUSION

Conversion to laparotomy is a rare but very important clinical outcome measure of laparoscopic surgery. Understanding the factors contributing to conversion and perioperative outcomes may help clinicians to identify and counsel patients before surgery and to reduce surgical morbidity.

Gynecological cancers and urinary dysfunction: a comparison between endometrial cancer and other gynecological malignancies

The purpose of this paper is to provide a narrative overview of the available literature about voiding dysfunction in women with gynecological cancer before and after surgical, chemo- and radiotherapy treatments. Radical surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy may cause lower urinary tract dysfunction such as stress and urge urinary incontinence, and voiding difficulties. However, nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy may be a valid surgical approach in order to reduce bladder innervation impairment and maintain normal urinary function. Also, newer radiotherapy techniques significantly reduce the number of adverse effects, including bladder dysfunction. Pelvic floor muscle physiotherapy and training with biofeedback and urethral bulking agents represent some additional therapies that can be used in oncologically treated patients with urinary symptoms in order to improve a significant aspect of their quality of life. Considering the important impact on the patients' quality of life, a full urogynecological evaluation should be considered as an important part of oncological treatment and follow-up.

INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF ANESTHESIA FOR LAPAROSCOPIC HYSTERECTOMY ON THE DYNAMICS OF STRESS HORMONES

The aim of the study – to evaluate the influence of different variants of anesthesia, including low-opioid (LOA) and opioid-free anesthesia (OFA), on the dynamics of the stress response during laparoscopic hysterectomy. Materials and methods: 102 patients were randomly allocated into 3 groups: 37 women assigned to receive a standard opioid-based anesthesia (OBA group), 33 women – LOA group and 32 patients OFA group. Results: The patients of OFA group after induction and intubation of the trachea showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in cortisol level by 155.4 % and 160.9 % compared with the OBA group and LOA group. After completion of the hysterectomy, regardless of the variant of anesthesia, the level of cortisol exceeded the preoperative one (pOBA=0.116, pLOA=0.049, pOFA=0.043). Two hours after surgery with standard anesthesia (OBA group) there was a further increase in the concentration of cortisol in the blood, exceeding the initial values by 142.9 % (p=0.043). Patients in the LOA group and OFA group tended to decrease cortisolemia. The changes in adrenaline & glucose levels were somewhat similar. Conclusion: Use of OFA is accompanied by an aggravation of the stress response at the stage of hysterectomy, which is manifested by an increase in the level of adrenaline and cortisol. The most adequate perioperative protection is inherent in low-opioid anesthesia, which is accompanied by a lower release of stress hormones during hysterectomy and in the postoperative period. Opioid-based anesthesia provides adequate intraoperative protection, but is accompanied by insufficient postoperative analgesia.

New development on hysteroscopy for endometrial cancer diagnosis: state of the art

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecologic cancer diagnosed in developed countries and represents the second most frequent gynecologic cancer-related cause of death following ovarian cancer. There are 2 subtypes of EC. Type I tumors (endometrioid adenocarcinoma) representing 85-90% of the cases. They are likely to be low-grade tumors and are thought to have a link to estrogen exposure. Type II tumors represent 10-15% of EC. They are characterized as high-grade carcinomas, with serous or clear cell histology type, and carry poor prognoses. The benefits of hysteroscopy in achieving a targeted endometrial biopsy under direct visualization over blind biopsy techniques are widely accepted. Hysteroscopic endometrial biopsy is performed under direct visualization and is the only technique that allows for the selective biopsy of targeted areas of the endometrium. There is no screening protocol for the early detection of EC. Among the general population, advanced age, obesity, nulliparity and the use of exogenous hormones are known as risk factors for EC. There are additional situations that portend an increased risk of EC that deserve special consideration such as in patients diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome, using tamoxifen, obese, or the young patient with a desire for future fertility. We presented a narrative review of the current role of hysteroscopy for the diagnosis of endometrial cancer.

Role of uterine manipulator during laparoscopic endometrial cancer treatment

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most frequent gynecologic malignancy with 61,000 new cases diagnosed per year in the USA. Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) LAP2 randomized study demonstrated a superimposable 5-year overall survival between laparotomic and laparoscopic approaches in EC treatment. In this context the uterine manipulator (UM) represents a valuable tool in order to increase the ergonomics of surgical gesture during a laparoscopic total hysterectomy. Despite the proven safety of the minimally invasive approach in EC treatment, neither the indication whether to use or not, nor the recommendation concerning a specific type of UM are provided by international guidelines. This narrative review aims to collect all the main findings in the literature about UM use to investigate its safety in EC patients. Based on the analysis of the literature research, the main results were categorized into two manipulator-related problems: the iatrogenic LVSI, and the retrograde tumor spillage. LVSI is defined as the presence of tumor cells within an endothelium-lined space. An electronic search was performed using the following keywords: 'uterine manipulator', and 'endometrial cancer'. The electronic database search provided a total of 93 studies. Of whom, 12 case reports, 5 studies not in English language, and 65 works not fitting the review scope were excluded from the analysis. Eleven studies were considered eligible for the purpose of the study. The most recent studies have highlighted the safety of the uterine manipulator in the early-stage EC laparoscopic treatment. All types of manipulators are considered to be fairly safe but its application should be tailored according to tumor dimension and grade of myometrial infiltration.

Fertility-sparing management for endometrial cancer: review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Primary surgery is effective in low-risk endometrial cancer (EC). However, in young women, this approach compromises fertility. Therefore, fertility-sparing management in the case of atypical endometrial hyperplasia, or grade 1 EC limited to the endometrium can be considered.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We performed a literature review to identify studies involving women with EC or atypical hyperplasia who underwent fertility-sparing management. We conducted multiple bibliographic databases research from their inception to May 2020.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Oral therapy with medroxyprogesterone acetate and megestrol acetate is recommended based on extensive experience, although without consensus on dosages and treatment length. The pooled complete response rate, recurrence rate, and pregnancy rate of EC were 76.3%, 30.7% and 52.1%, respectively. Endometrial hyperplasia was associated with better outcomes. LNG-IUSs appears an alternative treatment, particularly in patients who do not tolerate oral therapy. In a randomized controlled trial, megestrol acetate plus metformin guaranteed an earlier complete response rate than megestrol acetate alone for endometrial hyperplasia. Hysteroscopic resection followed by progestogens is associated with a higher complete response rate, live birth rate, and lower recurrence rate than oral progestogens alone. Pooled complete response, recurrence, and live birth rates were 98.1%, 4.8% and 52.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

Fertility preservation appears feasible in young patients with grade 1 EC limited to the endometrium or atypical endometrial hyperplasia. Progestins are the mainstay of such management. The addition of Metformin and hysteroscopic resection seems to provide some improvements. However, fertility preservation is not the standard approach for staging and treatment, potentially worsening oncologic outcomes.

Novelties of ultrasound imaging for endometrial cancer preoperative workup

INTRODUCTION

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most frequent gynecological cancer. Transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) plays a leading role in the preoperative workup and often is the first diagnostic instrumental examination. Despite expert hands' ultrasound is recommended to assess myometrial invasion in early stage EC, this method is a strictly operator-dependent examination, and varying degrees of sensitivity and specificity have been reported. The present review aims to provide an update of ultrasound imaging in the preoperative work-up for EC patients.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A double-blind search was performed from May to September 2020. The following keywords: "ultrasound," "transvaginal ultrasound" and "endometrial cancer" were searched in Pubmed search engines, Scopus, and Web of Science. The Prisma statement was followed for the selection of the articles included.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The initial search provided 958 studies, of which 11 were included in the analysis. non-English articles, not relevant to the purposes of this study, case reports and articles with fewer than 40 cases were excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

TVU sensitivity and specificity in myometrial infiltration and cervical invasion is comparable to MRI but has lower costs, greater patient tolerability, and does not require contrast agents. An expert operator should perform the ultrasound examination in patients with suspected EC The presence of myometrial lesions, such as leiomyomas, could lower the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound, so special attention should be paid to patients with concomitant uterine lesions.

Sentinel lymph node for endometrial cancer treatment: review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy and in two thirds of patients it is apparently uterine confined at presentation. Lymph nodal status represents one of the main prognostic factors. Nodal evaluation with sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping has gained more ground in clinical practice after the publication of different studies demonstrating the feasibility and accuracy of this technique. However, at the moment there are no RCTs available evaluating the long-term oncologic safety of SLN technique compared to LND. This review aims at summarizing the available evidence on oncologic outcomes between SLN mapping alone and LND. Differences in operative complications and long-term complications were also analyzed.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The literature search was conducted in the PubMed database and it focused on comparative studies published from inception to September 2020 analyzing differences in oncological outcomes or complications between nodal evaluation with SLN technique alone and nodal evaluation with lymphadenectomy. Comparative studies with more than 10 cases, published in English, were included.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A total of 5 retrospective comparative studies have been identified reporting data on oncologic outcomes of patients who underwent SLN mapping alone vs. LND. Non significative difference has been reported in terms of overall survival and recurrence free survival between the two groups. Six studies evaluated differences in terms of complications between the two techniques. A total of 2302 patients were identified. Postoperative complications were detected in 9.6% and 7.7% of patients who underwent lymphadenectomy and SLN mapping respectively and no significant difference was noted (P=0.3). Looking at major postoperative complications the rate in the LND group was significantly higher than in the SLN group (3.6% vs. 1.5%, P=0.02). Two of these six studies reported data on lymphatic long-term complications. The prevalence of lymphedema ranged from 0% to 1.3% in the SLN group and from 10% to 18% in the LND group. The absolute difference reported (13.35%) was similar to the one found in literature.

CONCLUSIONS

SLN mapping in apparently uterine confined disease has been demonstrated to be a feasible and accurate technique for nodal evaluation and high-quality evidence support this. Moreover, SLN mapping resulted to be associated with less major postoperative and long-term complications when compared to LDN. Conversely, high-quality evidence is not available on long-term oncologic safety of this technique compared to the standard LND. Randomized trials are requested to provide reliable data on this aspect.

Quality of life and sexual functioning of patient affected by endometrial cancer

INTRODUCTION

Thanks to timely diagnosis and medical advancement the number of endometrial cancer (EC) patients achieving long term survival is constantly increasing and here comes the necessity to move forward with the understanding of post-treatment sexual adjustment and with the strategies to enhance sexual functioning (SF) and quality of life (QoL) in this population. In this scenario we designed this study aiming to summarize and analyze the available scientific evidence regarding QoL and especially SF in patients affected by EC who underwent surgical and adjuvant treatment.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A preliminary research was conducted using Pubmed database with specific keywords combinations regarding SF, QoL and endometrial cancer. The main findings considered in the present review were: the study design, the number of patients included in each study, the information about pathology (histology and stage of disease), the questionnaires administered and the principal results concerning SF and QoL.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A total of thirteen studies, between 2009 and 2018, treating the aspects of SF and QoL in patients affected by EC were extracted. The principal findings of different studies were organized in the following sections: 1) overall SF in EC patients (reasons for sexual inactivity); 2) impact of EC on SF when compared to benign gynecological disease or healthy controls-focus on surgery; 3) minimally invasive surgery versus classical laparotomic approach and SF of EC patients; 4) surgery alone versus VBT versus EBRT and SF of EC patients; 5) focus on RT; 6) the mutual correlation between sociodemographic, relational, psychological, clinical/metabolic factors and the SF of EC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the widespread diffusion of female sexual dysfunction among EC patients and the relatively good prognosis, especially in early stage disease, it undoubtedly looms the need for proactive countermeasures to maximize the sexual well-being and QoL of these patients. A wide range of intervention in a multi-modal physical and mental perspective should be considered.

Percutaneous-assisted vs mini-laparoscopic hysterectomy: comparison of ultra-minimally invasive approaches

To assess the feasibility and the safety of the ultra-minimally invasive (U-MIS) approaches in gynecology, we compared our experience in percutaneous assisted hysterectomy (PSS-H) with a series of 3 mm mini-laparoscopy hysterectomy (m-LPS-H). 126 patients affected by benign and malignant gynecological conditions were considered eligible for minimally invasive hysterectomy: 80 patients received PSS approach and 46 m-LPS approach. For both groups, we evaluated intra and perioperative outcomes, post-operative pain and cosmetic outcomes. The baseline characteristics were comparable between the two study groups. As well, no differences were reported in the clinical indications for hysterectomy, principally fibroids/adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and early stage endometrial cancer. The median operative time was 88.5 (40-190) minutes for PSS-H group and 95.0 (42-231) minutes in m-LPS-H group (p = 0.131). No differences were detected in median estimated blood loss (p = 0.104) as well, in the uterine manipulator usage (p = 0.127) between the two different surgical approaches. Only 1 (2.2%) conversion to standard laparoscopy occurred in m-LPS-H group (p = 0.691). One intra-operative complication was recorded 1 (1.3%) in the PSS-H group (p = 0.367). The post-operative early complication was recorded in five cases of PSS-H group (p = 0.158), none for m-LPS-H procedures. The results in post-operative pain detection was statistically significant after 4 h in favor of m-LPS-H group (p = 0.001). After 30 days no differences in cosmetic satisfaction were detected between the two groups (p = 0.206). PSS-H and m-LPS-H are two valid U-MIS alternatives for benign gynecological conditions and low/intermediate risk endometrial cancer.

Feasibility and safety of total laparoscopic hysterectomy for uteri weighing from 1.5 kg to 11.000 kg

PURPOSE

To assess the feasibility and safety of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) for uteri ≥ 1.5 kg.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated all elective TLHs (with or without adnexectomy) performed for fibromatous uteri between August 2009 and August 2019 in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sirai Hospital, Carbonia, and the Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Businco Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Brotzu, Cagliari. Patients with large myomatous uteri (uterine weight ≥ 1.5 kg on pathology reports) were included in the analysis. We examined all procedures and collected data about intra- and post-operative short-term and long-term complications, intraoperative blood loss, operative time, hospital stay, and time to achieve well-being.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients were included. The median weight was 2,000 g (range 1,500-11,000 g), estimated blood loss was 100 mL (range 10-700 mL), operating time was 135 min (range 60-300 min), and hospital stay was 2 days (range 2-5 days). Conversion to laparotomy occurred in 4 patients (5.1%) with uterine weight ranging from 3 to 5.5 kg, due to severe adherence syndrome or inadequate visualization. As for intraoperative complications, 1 patient (who had the largest removed uterus weighing 11,000 g) experienced an intraoperative ureteral injury (grade III). No major postoperative complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the largest case series of TLH for fibromatous uteri > 1.5 kg and includes some of the largest uteri reported to date in the literature (weighing 5,320, 5,720, and 11,000 g, respectively). The study reaffirms the feasibility and safety of a minimally invasive hysterectomy even in the case of abnormally large uteri.

The robotic single-port platform for gynecologic surgery: a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis

Since the first robotic single-site hysterectomy was performed, the research focused on the use of robotic single-site surgery (RSSS) for all gynecological conditions. This review aims to examine the studies available in the literature on RSSS in gynecology both for benign and malignant indications. The systematic review was carried out in agreement with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses statement (PRISMA). All the articles were grouped into three sets based on the surgical indication (Group 1, 2, and 3 for benign, malignant, and mixed diseases, respectively). Two hundred and fifty total studies were analyzed, and 27 articles were included in the review. A total of 1065 patients were included in the analysis. Of these, 605 patients were included in group 1, 260 in group 2, and 200 in group 3. Ten (1.7%) patients with benign pathology, 16 (6.2%) patients with malignant disease, and 5 (2.5%) patients with both diseases developed major complications. Two (0.3%) patients in group 1, 3 (1.2%) patients in group 2 and 5 (2.5%) in group 3 were converted to a different type of surgery. No significant differences were found between groups for BMI (p = 0.235), operative time (p = 0.723), estimated blood loss (EBL) (p = 0.342), and hospital stay (p = 0.146). The complications and conversions incidence through pooled analysis showed a higher general conversion rate (p = 0.012) in group 3 (3.0%) and higher complications rate (p = 0.001) in group 2 (5.3%) compared to the other groups. RSSS seems to be a feasible and safe procedure for all gynecological surgical procedures. A long-term analysis would be necessary before considering the RSSS oncologically safe for patients with malignant disease.

Surgical Intervention for Uterine Fibroids. Our 4-Year Experience and Literature Review: Is It Time to Centralise Care Provision Via Specialist Fibroid Centres?

BACKGROUND

Leiomyomas are common in women of reproductive age, for whom treatment-stratification can be challenging. We assessed factors influencing pre-operative selection of surgical intervention and compare outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A literature review was performed and surgical interventions for fibroids at a London hospital (2015-2018) were retrospectively examined. Outcomes assessed were estimated blood loss, length of stay (LOS) and complications. Data were analysed using univariate non-parametric inferential statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 258 cases were identified. Estimated blood loss was statistically significantly lower for laparoscopic versus open myomectomy [200 (interquartile range; IQR)=100-200 vs. 400 (IQR=200-700 ml), p<0.001]. Length of stay was also statistically significantly lower in the laparoscopic cohort compared with open hysterectomy [1 (IQR=1-1) days vs. 2 (IQR=2-3 days)]. Similar results were noted when comparing laparoscopic versus open hysterectomy [167 (IQR=100-200) vs. 500 (IQR=100-750) ml, p<0.001]. No differences in complications were reported across groups. Patients counselled by a surgeon trained in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) opted more frequently for laparoscopy (p<0.01, rho=-0.669). Estimated blood loss during MIS was 225 ml versus 545 ml for non-MIS, and 285 ml for the overall cohort (p<0.01).The length of stay was statistically significantly lower for those treated with MIS (1.37 days) versus other surgeons (2.65 days), or overall cohort (1.63 days) (p<0.01 for all associations).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic surgery offers superior short-term outcomes when performed by experienced operators. Multidisciplinary counselling and treatment stratification should be gold-standard practice. Centralisation of care provision in fibroid Centres of Excellence is required.

Uterine manipulator in total laparoscopic hysterectomy: safety and usefulness

The aim of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of uterine manipulators in facilitating total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). A literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, UpToDate, SpringerLink, ClinicalKey and Elsevier ScienceDirect databases was performed, and articles describing TLH with or without the use of uterine manipulators were retrieved. Complications related to the use of uterine manipulators are numerous, and although uterine manipulator seems to facilitate TLH, the procedure without a uterine manipulator seems to have a comparable safety and effectiveness, although evidence based on a direct comparison of the two approaches is limited without available controlled trials. Uterine manipulator may provide support in cases of large uteri, severe endometriosis, recto vaginal adhesions and regional anesthesia, while its use may increase complications in cases of vaginal stenosis and nulliparity. Therefore, to perform TLH, the surgeon should individualize for each case if uterine manipulator is needed and which manipulator best suits the surgical procedure requirements and case characteristics. Further studies comparing the two approaches are mandatory.