RECTAL ENDOMETRIOSIS: RESULTS OF RADICAL EXCISION AND REVIEW OF PUBLISHED WORK

Different segmental resection techniques and postoperative complications in patients with colorectal endometriosis: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to analyze the available literature by conducting a systematic review to assess the possible effects of nerve-sparing segmental resection and conventional bowel resection on postoperative complications for the treatment of colorectal endometriosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Pubmed, Clinical Trials.gov, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were comprehensively searched from 1997 to 2021 in order to perform a systematic review. Studies including patients undergoing segmental resection for colorectal endometriosis including adequate follow-up, data on postoperative complications and postoperative sequelae were enrolled in this review. Selected articles were evaluated and divided in two groups: Nerve-sparing resection (NSR), and conventional segmental resection not otherwise specified (SRNOS). Within the NSRs, studies mentioning preservation of the rectal artery supply (artery and nerve-sparing SR - ANSR) and not reporting preservation of the artery supply (NSR not otherwise specified - NSRNOS) were further analyzed.

PROSPERO ID

CRD42021250974.

RESULTS

A total of 7549 patients from 63 studies were included in the data analysis. Forty-three of these publications did not mention the preservation or the removal of the hypogastric nerve plexus, or main rectal artery supply and were summarized as SRNOS. The remaining 22 studies were listed under the NSR group. The mean size of the resected deep endometriosis lesions and patients' body mass index were comparable between SRNOS and NSR. A mean of 3.6% (0-16.6) and 2.3% (0-10.5%) of rectovaginal fistula development was reported in patients who underwent SRNOS and NSR, respectively. Anastomotic leakage rates varied from 0% to 8.6% (mean 1.7 ± 2%) in SRNOS compared with 0% to 8% (mean 1.7 ± 2%) in patients undergoing NSR. Urinary retention (4.5% and 4.9%) and long-term bladder catheterization (4.9% and 5.6%) were frequently reported in SRNOS and NSR. There was insufficient information about pain or the recurrence rates for women undergoing SRNOS and NSR.

CONCLUSIONS

Current data describe the outcomes of different segmental resection techniques. However, the data are inhomogeneous and not sufficient to reach a conclusion regarding a possible advantage of one technique over the other.

Treatment preferences for medication or surgery in patients with deep endometriosis and bowel involvement - a discrete choice experiment

Objective

To study the preferences of women with deep endometriosis (DE) with bowel involvement when they have to choose between conservative (medication) or surgical treatment.

Design

Labelled discrete choice experiment (DCE).

Setting

Dutch academic and non‐academic hospitals and online recruitment.

Population or Sample

A total of 169 women diagnosed with DE of the bowel.

Methods

Baseline characteristics and the fear of surgery were collected. Women were asked to rank attributes and choose between hypothetical conservative or surgical treatment in different choice sets (scenarios). Each choice set offered different levels of all treatment attributes. Data were analysed by using multinomial logistic regression.

Main Outcome Measures

The following attributes – effect on/risk of pain, fatigue, pregnancy, endometriosis lesions, mood swings, osteoporosis, temporary stoma and permanent intestinal symptoms – were used in this DCE.

Results

In the ranking, osteoporosis was ranked with low importance, whereas in the DCE, a lower chance of osteoporosis was one of the most important drivers when choosing a conservative treatment. Women with previous surgery showed less fear of surgery compared with women without surgery. Low anterior resection syndrome was almost equally important for patients as the chance of pain reduction. Pain reduction had higher importance than improving fertility chances, even in women with desire for a future child.

Conclusions

The risk of developing low anterior resection syndrome as a result of treatment is almost equally important as the reduction of pain symptoms. Women with previous surgery experience less fear of surgery compared with women without a surgical history.

Tweetable Abstract

First discrete choice experiment in patients with deep endometriosis.

First discrete choice experiment in patients with deep endometriosis.

Conservative Management of Rectovaginal Deep Endometriosis: Shaving Should Be Considered as the Primary Surgical Approach in a High Majority of Cases

Deep endometriosis infiltrating the rectum remains a challenging situation to manage, and it is even more important when ureters and pelvic nerves are also infiltrated. Removal of deep rectovaginal endometriosis is mandatory in case of symptoms strongly impairing quality of life, alteration of digestive, urinary, sexual and reproductive functions, or in case of growing. Extensive preoperative imaging is required to choose the right technique between laparoscopic shaving, disc excision, or rectal resection. When performed by skilled surgeons and well-trained teams, a very high majority of cases of deep endometriosis nodule (>95%) is feasible by the shaving technique, and this is associated with lower complication rates regarding rectal resection. In most cases, removing a part of the rectum is questionable according to the risk of complications, and the rectum should be preserved as far as possible. Shaving and rectal resection are comparable in terms of recurrence rates. As shaving is manageable whatever the size of the lesions, surgeons should consider rectal shaving as first-line surgery to remove rectal deep endometriosis. Rectal stenosis of more than 80% of the lumen, multiple bowel deep endometriosis nodules, and stenotic sigmoid colon lesions should be considered as indication for rectal resection, but this represents a minority of cases.

Predictive value of 4th post-operative-day CRP in the early detection of complications after laparoscopic bowel resection for endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

Post-operative CRP on postoperative day 4 (POD) is used for the early detection of complications after colorectal surgery for cancer, but there is no evidence yet that justifies the use of this marker for bowel resection in case of endometriosis.

STUDY DESIGN

We retrospectively included 66 consecutive patients who underwent bowel resection for endometriosis (stage 4) in Lille university hospital, France, from August 1, 2015 until January 31, 2017. The composite endpoint of our study included anastomotic leakages, infectious or thrombo-embolic complications, hematomas, bowel stenosis, rectorrhagia, voiding dysfunction, and rehospitalization for related symptoms.

RESULTS

CRP on POD 4 presents a satisfying area under the curve of 0.85, for the composite endpoint. A CRP cut off value of 56 mg/L yielded a sensitivity of 0.61 (IC95%: 0.36 to 0.83) and a specificity of 0.98 (IC95%: 0.89 to 1). The negative and positive predictive values were 0.87 and 0.92.

CONCLUSION

The negative predictive value of the CRP on POD 4 after bowel resection for endometriosis is a useful early indicator for detecting a complication. Therefore, this biomarker might be safely used as an additional criterion for a safe discharge from hospital after colorectal resection in endometriosis.

Conservative vs radical bowel surgery for endometriosis: A systematic analysis of complications

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis of the bowel can be associated with significant morbidity. Surgery to remove it carries risks. Options include conservative shaving or discoid resection and more radical segmental bowel resection.

AIMS

To determine if more conservative shaving or discoid bowel resection is associated with fewer risks than more radical segmental resection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study is a systematic review. We considered eligible any cohort, observational or randomised controlled trial (RCT) study of at least ten women per arm comparing conservative vs radical bowel surgery for endometriosis. We divided complications into two groups, major and minor. One additional article was added due to its significance in answering our study question as well as the high quality of the study design as an RCT.

RESULTS

There were 3041 studies screened. Eleven studies were included (n = 1648). For major complications, the risk ratio for shaving and disc excision vs segmental resection is 0.31 (95% CI 0.21-0.46), while the risk difference is -0.25 (95% CI -0.41 to 0.10). For minor complications, the risk ratio is 0.63 (95% CI 0.36-1.09), while the risk difference is -0.03 (95% CI -0.12 to 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Conservative shaving or discoid excision surgery is associated with reduced complications. Previous studies demonstrated a trend toward this finding, but suffered from relatively low participant numbers, increasing the risk of type one statistical error. Our results allow surgeons to make informed choices about potential complications when deciding how to approach bowel endometriosis. The results also allow patients to have more information about the risks. However, outcomes in the studies analysed are heterogenous and are from low-quality evidence.

Crossroad decisions in deep endometriosis treatment options: a qualitative study among patients

OBJECTIVE

To study the experiences, considerations, and motivations of patients with endometriosis in the decision-making process for deep endometriosis (DE) treatment options.

DESIGN

Qualitative study using semi-structured in-depth focus group methodology.

SETTING

University medical center.

PATIENT(S)

A total of 19 Dutch women diagnosed with DE between 27 and 47 years of age.

INTERVENTION(S)

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Focus group topics were disease impact and motives for treatment, expectations of the treatment process, and important factors in the decision process.

RESULT(S)

Women reported that pain, fertility, and strong fear of complications are important decisive factors in the treatment process. The goal of conceiving a child is considered important, however, sometimes doctors emphasize this topic too much. It emerged that complication counseling is frequently about surgical complications, whereas side effects of hormonal treatments are neglected. Shared decision making and information about treatment options, complications, and side effects are not always optimal, making it difficult to make a well-considered choice. Despite negative experiences encountered after surgery, the positive effect of surgery ensures that most women do not regret their choice.

CONCLUSION(S)

In the treatment decision process for patients with DE, pain is almost always the most important decisive factor. The wish to conceive and strong fear of complications can change this choice. Doctors should understand the importance of fertility for the majority of women, but, also, if this is not considered paramount, respect that view. To improve shared decision making, exploration of treatment goals, training of healthcare providers, and better patient information provision are desirable.

Surgical Outcomes after Colorectal Surgery for Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of type of surgery for colorectal endometriosis-rectal shaving or discoid resection or segmental colorectal resection-on complications and surgical outcomes.

DATA SOURCES

We performed a systematic review of all English- and French-language full-text articles addressing the surgical management of colorectal endometriosis, and compared the postoperative complications according to surgical technique by meta-analysis. The PubMed, Clinical Trials.gov, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant studies published before March 27, 2020. The search strategy used the following Medical Subject Headings terms: ("bowel endometriosis" or "colorectal endometriosis") AND ("surgery for endometriosis" or "conservative management" or "radical management" or "colorectal resection" or "shaving" or "full thickness resection" or "disc excision") AND ("treatment", "outcomes", "long term results" and "complications").

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

Two authors conducted the literature search and independently screened abstracts for inclusion, with resolution of any difference by 3 other authors. Studies were included if data on surgical management (shaving, disc excision, and/or segmental resection) were provided and if postoperative outcomes were detailed with at least the number of complications. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane recommendations.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Of the 168 full-text articles assessed for eligibility, 60 were included in the qualitative synthesis. Seventeen of these were included in the meta-analysis on rectovaginal fistula, 10 on anastomotic leakage, 5 on anastomotic stenosis, and 9 on voiding dysfunction <30 days. The mean complication rate according to shaving, disc excision, and segmental resection were 2.2%, 9.7%, and 9.9%, respectively. Rectal shaving was less associated with rectovaginal fistula than disc excision (odds ratio [OR] = 0.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10-0.36; p <.001; I² = 33%) and segmental colorectal resection (OR = 0.26; 95% CI, 0.15-0.44; p <.001; I² = 0%). No difference was found in the occurrence of rectovaginal fistula between disc excision and segmental colorectal resection (OR = 1.07; 95% CI, 0.70-1.63; p = .76; I² = 0%). Rectal shaving was less associated with leakage than disc excision (OR = 0.22; 95% CI, 0.06-0.73; p = .01; I² = 86%). No difference was found in the occurrence of leakage between rectal shaving and segmental colorectal resection (OR = 0.32; 95% CI, 0.10-1.01; p = .05; I² = 71%) or between disc excision and segmental colorectal resection (OR = 0.32; 95% CI, 0.30-1.58; p = .38; I² = 0%). Disc excision was less associated with anastomotic stenosis than segmental resection (OR = 0.15; 95% CI, 0.05-0.48; p = .001; I² = 59%). Disc excision was associated with more voiding dysfunction <30 days than rectal shaving (OR = 12.9; 95% CI, 1.40-119.34; p = .02; I² = 0%). No difference was found in the occurrence of voiding dysfunction <30 days between segmental resection and rectal shaving (OR = 3.05; 95% CI, 0.55-16.87; p = .20; I² = 0%) or between segmental colorectal and discoid resections (OR = 0.99; 95% CI, 0.54-1.85; p = .99; I² = 71%).

CONCLUSION

Colorectal surgery for endometriosis exposes patients to a risk of severe complications such as rectovaginal fistula, anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stenosis, and voiding dysfunction. Rectal shaving seems to be less associated with postoperative complications than disc excision and segmental colorectal resection. However, this technique is not suitable for all patients with large bowel infiltration. Compared with segmental colorectal resection, disc excision has several advantages, including shorter operating time, shorter hospital stay, and lower risk of postoperative bowel stenosis.

Voiding Dysfunction after Colorectal Surgery for Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Surgical management of deep endometriosis is associated with a high incidence of lower urinary tract dysfunction. The aim of the current systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the rates of voiding dysfunction according to colorectal shaving, discoid excision, and segmental resection for deep endometriosis.

DATA SOURCES

We performed a systematic review using bibliographic citations from PubMed, Clinical Trials.gov, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. Medical Subject Headings terms for colorectal endometriosis and voiding dysfunction were combined and restricted to the French and English languages. The final search was performed on August 28, 2019. The outcome measured was the occurrence of postoperative voiding dysfunction.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

Study Quality Assessment Tools were used to assess the quality of included studies. Studies rated as good and fair were included. Two reviewers independently assessed the quality of each included study, discrepancies were discussed; if consensus was not reached, a third reviewer was consulted.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION AND RESULTS

Out of 201 relevant published reports, 51 studies were ultimately reviewed systematically and 13 were included in the meta-analysis. Rectal shaving was statistically less associated with postoperative voiding dysfunction than segmental colorectal resection (Odds ratio [OR] 0.34; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 0.18-0.63; I² = 0%; p <.001) or discoid excision (OR 0.22; 95% CI, 0.09-0.51; I² = 0%; p  <.001). No significant difference was noted when comparing discoid excision and segmental colorectal resection (OR 0.74; 95% CI, 0.32-1.69; I² = 29%; p = .47). Similarly, rectal shaving was associated with a lower risk of self-catheterization >1 month than segmental colorectal resection (OR 0.3; 95% CI, 0.14-0.66; I² = 0%; p = .003). This outcome was no longer significant when comparing discoid excision and segmental colorectal resection (OR 0.72; 95% CI, 0.4-1.31; I² = 63%; p = .28).

CONCLUSION

Colorectal surgery for endometriosis has a significant impact on urinary function regardless of the technique. However, rectal shaving causes less postoperative voiding dysfunction than discoid excision or segmental resection.

Deep endometriosis: The place of laparoscopic shaving

Deep endometriosis (DE) is considered to be one of the most challenging conditions to manage, especially when it invades surrounding organs like the rectum. Surgical excision of deep rectovaginal endometriosis is required when lesions are symptomatic, impairing bowel, urinary, sexual, and reproductive functions, or if they evolve. Preoperative radiological examination should be extensive to determine the appropriate surgery: laparoscopic shaving, disc excision, or rectal resection. We demonstrated that in the hands of experienced surgeons, rectal shaving is possible for DE in more than 95% of cases, with low complication rates compared to rectal resection. Shaving and bowel resection are associated with comparable recurrence rates. As shaving is indicated whatever the size of deep lesions, surgeons should first consider rectal shaving to remove DE. Bowel resection should only be performed in case of major rectal stenosis (>80%), multiple and/or posterior rectal lesions and stenotic sigmoid colon lesions.

Surgical Outcomes in Patients With Endometriosis: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Among women treated surgically for endometriosis-associated pain, comprehensive data are lacking on the proportions of patients who experience little or no symptom relief, develop recurrent symptoms, or require further surgical treatment for endometriosis. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of surgical procedures used to treat endometriosis-associated pain.

METHODS

Medline and Embase were searched on October 13, 2016. Articles referring to women undergoing surgery for the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain were screened by two independent investigators. For each included treatment arm, data were extracted for the proportion of patients reporting partial or no improvement after surgery for endometriosis-associated pain, pain recurrence, or requirement for further surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 38 studies were included. Most studies did not report relevant outcomes to evaluate pain (71.1%) and recurrent surgery (68.4%). Of the women who underwent lesion excision, 11.8% reported no improvement in pain, and 22.6% underwent further surgery. Postoperative pain, recurrent pain, and adverse events were reported by 34.3%, 28.7%, and 14.8%, respectively, of patients who underwent excision or ablation of endometriosis combined with pelvic denervation and in 25.0%, 15.8%, and 8.1% of women who underwent lesion excision alone. Of the patients who were treated surgically for deep endometriosis affecting the bowel and/or bladder, 7.0% experienced recurrent symptoms, and 4.1% underwent further surgery.

CONCLUSION

This review supports the findings of previous studies and highlights the need for standardized reporting and more detailed follow-up after surgery for endometriosis-associated pain.

Feasibility, Complications, and Recurrence after Discoid Resection for Colorectal Endometriosis: A Series of 93 Cases

Laparoscopic discoid colorectal resection is a surgical option for bowel endometriosis, 1 of the most severe forms of endometriosis. However, no study has clearly analyzed the feasibility or the complication and recurrence rates of the procedure in a homogeneous population with specific criteria for discoid resection. The aims of this study were to evaluate the rate of conversion to segmental resection, the need for double discoid resection, and the complication and recurrence rates. We conducted a prospective study of 93 consecutive patients who underwent discoid resection in Tenon University Hospital, Paris, France. The median follow-up was 20 months. We included patients with colorectal endometriosis (≤3 cm long and <90° of bowel circumference) experiencing failure of medical treatment or associated infertility. All the patients underwent a discoid colorectal resection using a transanal circular stapler. The primary end point was the rate of conversion to segmental resection (3.2%). The secondary end point was the rate of double discoid resection (6.5%). The overall complication rate was 24%, and the severe complication rate (i.e., Clavien-Dindo IIIB) was 3% (n = 4). Postoperative voiding dysfunction requiring bladder self-catheterization was observed in 16% (n = 15). The mean duration of bladder self-catherization was 30 days (range, 15-90) including 11 cases (74%) lasting less than 30 days and 4 cases lasting more than 30 days. No patients required bladder self-catheterization over 3 months. No difference in the complication rate or in voiding dysfunction was observed between double and single discoid resection. The low rate of conversion to radical resection confirms the satisfactory preoperative evaluation of bowel endometriosis. Few publications report the rate of conversion to radical surgery. This raises the crucial issue of the right indications for discoid resection. The present study confirms that discoid resection is probably the best option for small lesions because of its high feasibility and low complication rate. Further studies are required to evaluate the technique for larger colorectal endometriotic lesions.

Deep Pelvic Endometriosis: From Diagnosis to Wellness

Purpose

to determine the efficacy of laparoscopic excision of deep pelvic endometriosis (DPE).

Methods

One hundred and two highly symptomatic women with DPE underwent clinical examination, transvaginal ultrasound, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and sonovaginography. Among the 102 women, 50 patients, with severe symptoms, underwent laparoscopic excision of DPE. Endoscopic surgery was performed with complete separation of the rectovaginal space and resection of the node. In the case of vaginal involvement vaginal exeresis was performed, in the case of rectal wall involvement of more than 50%, segmental bowel resection was performed. Operative data as well as dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain and dyschezia before and 6 and 12 months after surgical treatment were recorded.

Results

Mean operative time was 126.4 ± 34.7 min, mean blood loss was 76.2 ± 22 ml. In 17 (34%) cases we performed excision of the posterior vaginal fornix due to vaginal wall involvement. In six (12%) cases we performed excision of the rectal wall. At 12-month follow-up 39 (78%) women revealed absent or mild dysmenorrhea, 45 (90%) women revealed absent or mild dyspareunia, 46 (92%) women revealed absent or mild chronic pelvic pain, 48 (96%) women revealed absent or mild dyschezia.

Conclusions

Surgical management of DPE could be a radical approach for this disease but conservative for the patients, ensuring good improvement in symptoms and good patient satisfaction, and only performing vaginal or rectal exeresis when strictly necessary.

Choosing the right surgical technique for deep endometriosis: shaving, disc excision, or bowel resection?

Deep endometriosis (DE) remains the most difficult endometriotic entity to treat. Medical treatment for DE can reduce symptoms but does not cure the disease, and surgical removal of the lesion is required when lesions are symptomatic, impairing bowel, urinary, sexual, and reproductive functions. Although several surgical techniques such as laparoscopic bowel resection, disc excision, and rectal shaving have been described, there is no consensus regarding the choice of technique or the timing of surgery. Our review of publications reporting results and complications of surgery for rectovaginal DE reveals a relatively higher complication rate after bowel resection compared with shaving and disc excision, especially for rectovaginal fistulas, anastomotic leakage, delayed hemorrhage, and long-term bladder catheterization. Data show that shaving is feasible even in advanced disease. The risk of immediate complications after shaving and disc excision is probably lower than after colorectal resection, allowing for better functional outcomes. The presumed higher risk of recurrence related to shaving has not been demonstrated. For these reasons, surgeons should consider rectal shaving as a first-line surgical treatment of rectovaginal DE, regardless of nodule size or association with other digestive localizations. When the result of rectal shaving is unsatisfactory (rare cases), disc excision may be performed either exclusively by laparoscopy or by using transanal staplers. Segmental resection may ultimately be reserved for advanced lesions responsible for major stenosis or for several cases of multiple nodules infiltrating the rectosigmoid junction or sigmoid colon.

Impact of Bowel Endometriosis Surgery on Bowel and Bladder Function, Pain Symptoms and Quality of Life

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of bowel endometriosis surgery on obstructive defecation syndrome symptoms, bladder dysfunction, pain symptoms and quality of life (QOL).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent surgery for endometriosis where bowel was involved between 2005 and 2013. Patients were grouped according to extent of bowel endometriosis treatment: Group 1 - no treatment of bowel endometriosis, Group 2 - “shaving” of endometriosis, Group 3 - wedge resection, or Group 4 - segmental bowel resection. Data were collected via chart review and a mail-out survey consisting of six validated questionnaires designed to evaluate the study aims.

Results

Of 337 eligible patients, completed survey responses were returned by 99. There were 22 patients in Group 1, 61 in Group 2, 5 in Group 3 and 11 in Group 4. Patient demographic data were similar across the groups. There was no difference in disease severity between Groups 1-4, nor between respondents and non-respondents. Patients in Group 4 were more likely to have open surgery (p<0.001) and to have a stoma placed (p = 0.001). Patients in Group 3 were more likely to have dysmenorrhoea post-operatively (p = 0.02). Otherwise, bowel and bladder symptoms, pain, and health status were comparable between the groups, with a low incidence of bladder symptoms, generally low pain scores, and high QOL for all patients.

Conclusions

Deciding the extent of surgical aggressiveness based on symptom severity has resulted in similar long-term post-operative bowel and bladder symptoms, pain scores, quality of life and overall health across the groups.

Correlation Between the Clinical Parameters and Tissue Phenotype in Patients Affected by Deep-Infiltrating Endometriosis

The current study aimed to identify and validate an applicable immunohistochemistry panel including Ki-67, c-MYC, estrogen receptor-α (ER-α), and progesterone receptor isoforms A/B (PR-A/B) in correlation with clinicopathological parameters in patients affected by deep infiltrating endometriosis. Tissue microarrays were prepared from a cohort of 113 patients. Phenotypic profile of the panel molecules was evaluated in glands and stroma in parallel with microvessels and stroma density measurements. Principal component analysis was performed on 8 immunohistochemical variables, 2 histological variables, and 8 subgroups of clinical parameters. The immunohistochemical profiling showed consistent Ki-67 immunostaining in 17.9% of the samples and c-MYC in 83.1%, while intense ER-α immunoreactivity was detected in 84% of the samples and PR-A/B isoforms in 24.1% of them. The combination of clinical parameters and tissue phenotype allowed a stratification of endometriosis-affected patients. Such novel phenotypical and clinical correlation could be helpful in the future studies for a better stratification of the disease aiming at a personalized patient care.

Clear cell thymic carcinoma: a case report

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

Limited segmental rectal resection in the treatment of deeply infiltrating rectal endometriosis: 10 years' experience from a tertiary referral unit

BACKGROUND

The management of symptomatic rectal endometriosis is a challenging condition that may necessitate limited stripping or limited segmental anterior rectal resection (LSARR) depending upon the extent and severity of the disease.

OBJECTIVE

To report the efficacy of LSARR in terms of pain, quality of life and short- and long-term complications-in particular, those pertaining to bowel function.

METHODS

The case notes of all patients undergoing LSARR were reviewed. The analysed variables included surgical complications, overall symptomatic improvement rate, dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, and dyschezia. Chronic pain was measured using a visual analogue scale. Quality of life was measured using the EQ-5D questionnaire. Bowel symptoms were assessed using the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre (MSKCC) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Seventy-four women who underwent LSARR by both open and laparoscopic approaches were included in this study. Sixty-nine (93.2%) women reported improvement in pain and the same percentage would recommend the similar procedure to a friend with the same problem. Approximately 42% of women who wished to conceive had at least one baby. The higher frequency of defecation was a problem in the early post-operative period but this settled in later stages without influencing the quality of life score. Post-operative complications were recorded in 14.9% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

LSARR for rectal endometriosis is associated with a high degree of symptomatic relief. Pain relief achieved following LSARR does not appear to degrade with time. As anticipated, some rectal symptoms persist in few patients after long-term follow-up but LSARR is nonetheless still associated with a very high degree of patient satisfaction.

A pseudoneoplastic finding of deep endometriosis: laparoscopic triple segmental bowel resection

Bowel endometriosis affects 3-37% of patients with endometriosis, involving more frequently the rectum and the rectosigmoid junction. Severe endometriosis with bowel involvement is often refractory to standard medical therapy. For these reasons, surgery for bowel treatment is frequently needed. We report the case of a 36-year-old woman with deep endometriosis of the pelvis, triple segmental bowel involvement (recto-sigma, ileum-cecum, transverse colon) and massive endometriotic ascites with secondary Glisson's capsule inflammation, refractory to medical therapy. A laparoscopic triple segmental bowel resection and complete fertility sparing excision of pelvic endometriotic lesions was performed. At 48 months of follow-up, the woman was asymptomatic, with no evidence of recurrence of disease or ascites. Laparoscopic segmental bowel resection, including multiple section, is feasible in selected symptomatic patients with consequent improved quality of life, morbidity rates similar to those achieved by laparotomy and with a less detrimental effect on fertility.

Is ileostomy always necessary following rectal resection for deep infiltrating endometriosis?

OBJECTIVE

To verify the hypothesis that in most patients bowel segmental resection to treat endometriosis can be safely performed without creation of a stoma and to discuss the limitations of this statement.

DESIGN

Retrospective study (Canadian Task Force classification III).

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS

Forty-one women with sigmoid and rectal endometriotic lesions who underwent segmental resection.

INTERVENTION

Segmental resection procedures performed between 2004 and 2011. Patient demographic, operative, and postoperative data were compared.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Sigmoid resection was performed in 6 patients (15%), and rectal anterior resection in 35 patients (high in 21 patients [51%], and low, i.e., <10 cm from the anal verge, in 14 [34%]). In 4 patients a temporary ileostomy was created. There was 1 anastomotic leak (2.4%), in a patient with an unprotected anastomosis, which was treated via laparoscopic surgery and creation of a temporary ileostomy. Other postoperative complications included hemoperitoneum, pelvic abscess, pelvic collection, and a ureteral vaginal fistula, in 1 patient each (all 2.4%).

CONCLUSION

A protective stoma may be averted in low anastomosis if it is >5 cm from the anal verge and there are no adverse intraoperative events.

The outcomes of laparoscopic resection of bowel endometriosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To present the outcome of laparoscopic resection for bowel endometriosis.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the last 12 months, numerous articles have been published to demonstrate and underline the efficiency and feasibility of the laparoscopic approach in the treatment of bowel endometriosis.

SUMMARY

Endometriosis is a common condition that can affect women in their reproductive age. It can have an intestinal involvement, and when it occurs rectum and rectosigmoid junction are the most frequent sites; other lesser frequent sites are the appendix, the distal ileum, and the cecum. It is widely agreed that surgical management is the primary treatment for symptomatic bowel endometriosis. Laparoscopic bowel resection has become increasingly popular because it represents a well tolerated and feasible technique.

Robotic hybrid technique in rectal surgery for deep pelvic endometriosis

BACKGROUND

Deep pelvic endometriosis is a complex disorder that affects 6% to 12% of all women in childbearing age. The incidence of bowel endometriosis ranges between 5.3% and 12%, with rectum and sigma being the most frequently involved tracts, accounting for about 80% of cases. It has been reported that segmental colorectal resection is the best surgical option in terms of recurrence rate and improvement of symptoms. The aim of this study is to analyze indications, feasibility, limits, and short-term results of robotic (Da Vinci Surgical System)-assisted laparoscopic rectal sigmoidectomy for the treatment of deep pelvic endometriosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2006 and December 2010, 19 women with bowel endometriosis underwent colorectal resection through the robotic-assisted laparoscopic approach. Intraoperative and postoperative data were collected. All procedures were performed in a single center and short-term complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Nineteen robotic-assisted laparoscopic colorectal resections for infiltrating endometriosis were achieved. Additional procedures were performed in 7 patients (37%). No laparotomic conversion was performed. No intraoperative complications were observed. The mean operative time was 370 minutes (range = 250-720 minutes), and the estimated blood loss was 250 mL (range = 50-350 mL). The overall complication rate was 10% (2 rectovaginal fistulae).

CONCLUSIONS

Deep pelvic endometriosis is a benign condition but may have substantial impact on quality of life due to severe pelvic symptoms. We believe that robotic-assisted laparoscopic colorectal resection is a feasible and relatively safe procedure in the context of close collaboration between gynecologists and surgeons for treatment of deep pelvic endometriosis with intestinal involvement, with low rates of complications and significant improvement of intestinal symptoms.

Surgical Therapy of Endometriosis: Challenges and Controversies

Endometriosis is one of the most common disorders encountered in surgical gynaecology. The laparoscopic technique, the planning of the surgical intervention, the extent of information provided to patients and the interdisciplinary coordination make it a challenging intervention. Complete resection of all visible foci of disease offers the best control of symptoms. However, the possibility of achieving this goal is limited by the difficulty of detecting all foci and the risks associated with radical surgical strategies. Thus, the excision of ovarian endometrioma can result in a significant impairment of ovarian function, while damage to nerve structures during resection of the uterosacral ligaments, the parametrium, the rectovaginal septum or the vaginal cuff to treat deep infiltrating endometriosis can lead to serious functional impairments such as voiding disorders. A detailed risk-benefit analysis is therefore necessary, and patients must be treated using an individual approach.

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

AIM

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

METHOD

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Robotic treatment of colorectal endometriosis: technique, feasibility and short-term results

BACKGROUND

Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is a complex disease that impairs the quality of life and the fertility of women. Since a medical approach is often insufficient, a minimally invasive approach is considered the gold standard for complete disease excision. Robotic-assisted surgery is a revolutionary approach, with several advantages compared with traditional laparoscopic surgery.

METHODS

From March 2010 to May 2011, we performed 22 consecutive robotic-assisted complete laparoscopic excisions of DIE endometriosis with colorectal involvement. All clinical data were collected by our team and all patients were interviewed preoperatively and 3 and 6 months post-operatively and yearly thereafter regarding endometriosis-related symptoms. Dysmenorrhoea, dyschezia, dyspareunia and dysuria were evaluated with a 10-point analog rating scale.

RESULTS

There were 12 patients, with a median larger endometriotic nodule of 35 mm, who underwent segmental resection, and 10 patients, with a median larger endometriotic nodule of 30 mm, who underwent complete nodule debulking by colorectal wall-shaving technique. No laparotomic conversions were performed, nor was any blood transfusion necessary. No intra-operative complications were observed and, in particular, there were no inadvertent rectal perforations in any of the cases treated by the shaving technique. None of the patients had ileostomy or colostomy. No major post-operative complications were observed, except one small bowel occlusion 14 days post-surgery that was resolved in 3 days with medical treatment. Post-operatively, a statistically significant improvement of patient symptoms was shown for all the investigated parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the feasibility and short-term results and complications of laparoscopic robotic-assisted treatment of DIE with colorectal involvement. We demonstrate that this approach is feasible and safe, without conversion to laparotomy.

Laparoscopic rectal resection of deep infiltrating endometriosis

PURPOSE

Deep infiltrating endometriosis with colorectal involvement is a complex disorder, often requiring segmental bowel resection. Complete removal of all visible lesions is considered the adequate treatment of infiltrating endometriosis in order to reduce recurrence. In this article, we describe our experience with laparoscopic management of deep infiltrating endometriosis with involvement of the rectum.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data from patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis with rectal involvement who underwent a laparoscopic surgery in the years 2002-2009 at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at our institution was done.

RESULTS

Between 2002 and 2009, a laparoscopic partial rectal resection was performed in 52 patients, and laparoscopic disk resection was performed in 4 cases with deep infiltrating endometriosis. The mean age of patients was 34.4 years (range, 22-62 years). Preoperative symptoms included dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility. The laparoscopic procedure was converted to formal laparotomy in 3 patients (5.4%). The mean duration of surgery was 145 minutes. Postoperative complications included 3 cases of anastomotic leakage with rectovaginal fistula in two cases and intraabdominal bleeding in 1 case. The mean hospital stay was 7 days. Postoperatively, nine patients had a normal delivery, two of them after in vitro fertilization treatment.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic rectal resection for deep infiltrating endometriosis is a relatively safe procedure, when performed by a surgeon and a gynecologist with sufficient experience in laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Laparoscopic rectal resection for severe endometriosis of the mid and low rectum: technique and operative results

BACKGROUND

Although several studies have shown that laparoscopic resection is safe and feasible in bowel endometriosis, limited data are available on the specific treatment for endometriosis of the rectum. The aim of this study is to describe operative and postoperative outcomes after laparoscopic resection of the mid/low rectum for endometriosis.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2010, 750 patients (median age 33 years) underwent laparoscopic resection of the mid/low rectum for deep infiltrating endometriosis at a single institution. All operations were performed with a standardized technique by a single surgeon.

RESULTS

Median operative time was 255 min, and median blood loss 150 ml. Of patients, 7% required blood transfusions. Laparotomic conversion rate was 1.6%. Mechanical low and very low colorectal anastomoses were carried out in 92.5 and 7.5% of patients, respectively. Temporary ileostomy rate was 14.5%. Median length of stay was 8 days. Overall surgical morbidity was 9% with no mortality. Rates of anastomotic leak, rectovaginal fistula, and intraabdominal bleeding were 3, 2, and 1.2%. Forty patients (5.5%) required reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic resection of the mid/low rectum for endometriosis can be performed safely with acceptable rates of morbidity/reoperation and with low rates of specific complications, including anastomotic leak and rectovaginal fistula. The very high surgical volume of the operating surgeon is probably one of the most important factors in order to maximize postoperative outcomes.

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

PURPOSE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Retrorectal endometrioid cyst: a case report

Introduction

Developmental cysts are the most common retrorectal cystic lesions in adults, whereas reports of endometrioid cysts in this anatomic location are extremely rare.

Case presentation

A 21-year-old nulliparous Greek woman presented with chronic noncyclic pelvic pain, and a retrorectal cyst was diagnosed. The lesion was resected through a laparotomy and, on histologic examination, was found to be an endometrioid cyst. The treatment was completed with a six-month course of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue. One year after surgery, the woman remained free of symptoms, and pelvic imaging showed no recurrence of the lesion. Reviewing the literature, we found only three previous reports of an endometrioid cyst in this anatomic location.

Conclusion

In women of reproductive age, endometriosis must be included in the differential diagnosis of retrorectal cysts.

Chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis: translational evidence of the relationship and implications

BACKGROUND

Many clinicians and patients believe that endometriosis-associated pain is due to the lesions. Yet causality remains an enigma, because pain symptoms attributed to endometriosis occur in women without endometriosis and because pain symptoms and severity correlate poorly with lesion characteristics. Most research and reviews focus on the lesions, not the pain. This review starts with the recognition that the experience of pain is determined by the central nervous system (CNS) and focuses on the pain symptoms.

METHODS

Comprehensive searches of Pubmed, Medline and Embase were conducted for current basic and clinical research on chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. The information was mutually interpreted by a basic scientist and a clinical researcher, both in the field of endometriosis. The goal was to develop new ways to conceptualize how endometriosis contributes to pain symptoms in the context of current treatments and the reproductive tract.

RESULTS

Endometriotic lesions can develop their own nerve supply, thereby creating a direct and two-way interaction between lesions and the CNS. This engagement provides a mechanism by which the dynamic and hormonally responsive nervous system is brought directly into play to produce a variety of individual differences in pain that can, in some women, become independent of the disease itself.

CONCLUSIONS

Major advances in improving understanding and alleviating pain in endometriosis will likely occur if the focus changes from lesions to pain. In turn, how endometriosis affects the CNS would be best examined in the context of mechanisms underlying other chronic pain conditions.

Endometriosis of the appendix: Report of three cases

Endometriosis of the appendix is an entity of extragonadal endometriosis. It commonly affects women in the childbearing age with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Women can present with symptoms mimicking acute appendicitis or chronic pelvic pain. The surgical management varies from simple appendectomy to right hemicolectomy depending on the clinical findings. We report 3 cases of endometriosis of the appendix presenting with appendiceal intussusception. The surgical literature is reviewed and current surgical management is discussed.

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

AIM

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

METHOD

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Bowel resection for deep endometriosis: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

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

OBJECTIVES

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

SEARCH STRATEGY

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

SELECTION CRITERIA

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

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

data did not permit a meaningful meta-analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Complete surgery for low rectal endometriosis: long-term results of a 100-case prospective study

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a prospective study to assess the long-term results of complete surgery for low rectal endometriosis (LRE), paying particular attention to surgical complications, functional results, and disease recurrence after a follow-up of at least 5 years.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) may infiltrate the midlow rectum and lead to severe pelvic pain. Complete resection of LRE is reluctantly considered by young women of childbearing age.

METHODS

From 1995 to 2003, 100 women with severe pelvic pain and previous incomplete surgery (n=82) underwent complete open surgery for LRE after thorough preoperative imaging work-up. This included total or subtotal rectal excision with combined resection of all extrarectal endometriotic lesions. Univariate analysis of predictive factors for transient neurogenic bladder and surgical complications was performed. Mean follow-up was 78+/-15 months.

RESULTS

All patients underwent rectal resection with straight coloanal (n=16) or low colorectal anastomosis (n=84). A concomitant extrarectal procedure was required in all instances, including gynecologic procedures (n=100), additional intestinal (n=45), and urologic (n=23) resections. A fertility-preserving procedure was possible in 92% of the patients. Mean numbers of DIE and endometriotic lesions were 3.9+/-1.4 and 5.5+/-1.6 per patient, respectively. There were no deaths and the surgical morbidity rate was 16%. Sixteen patients developed a transient peripheral neurogenic bladder, which was more frequently observed after colonanal anastomosis (P<0.001) or concomitant hysterectomy (P<0.01) and in patients with more than 4 DIE lesions (P<0.05). At last follow-up, 94 patients had complete (n=83) or very satisfactory (n=11) relief of symptoms. Urine voiding and fecal continence was satisfactory in all cases. There was no recurrence of colorectal and/or urologic endometriosis and the overall DIE recurrence rate was 2%.

CONCLUSIONS

Complete surgery for LRE provides excellent long-term functional results in 94% of the patients, provided all extraintestinal endometriotic lesions are resected during the same surgical procedure. In that setting, the overall 5-year recurrence rate is very low.

Tratamento laparoscópico de 98 pacientes com endometriose intestinal

OBJETIVO: Identificar os tipos de tratamento cirúrgico e a morbidade operatória na endometriose intestinal. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de pacientes operadas no Biocor Instituto (Belo Horizonte, MG) por uma equipe multidisciplinar para tratamento de endometriose no período de janeiro de 2002 a junho de 2009. RESULTADO: Noventa e oito pacientes foram submetidas aos seguintes procedimentos para tratamento da endometriose intestinal: ressecção segmentar do reto (n 46; 45,5%), ressecção em disco (n 25; 24,7%), "shaving" (n 18; 17,8%), apendicectomia (n 5; 5%), liberação de aderências sem ressecção (n 5; 5%), ressecção segmentar do sigmóide (n 1; 1%) e ressecção segmentar do colo direito (n 1, 1%). A cirurgia concomitante mais freqüente foi a ressecção de endometriomas ovarianos (n 45). A morbidade operatória foi de 9,2%, sendo as complicações maiores uma fístula retovaginal (1%) e uma deiscência de anastomose (1%). Quarenta e duas pacientes tiveram seguimento médio de 14 meses com recidiva clínica em 8 casos (dor pélvica e dispareunia) e 4 recidivas de imagem à ultrassonografia em parede intestinal, assintomáticas. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento da endometriose por laparoscopia é factível e seguro, com baixos índices de recidiva.

Appendectomy in retrograde order for complete removal of endometriosis

Endometriosis frequently involves the intestines. Appendectomy would be often required as part of complete removal of endometriosis. We present a patient with endometriosis who required very difficult appendectomy. For complete removal of endometriosis, hysterectomy, bilateral salpingooophorectomy, low anterior resection and accompanying pelvic peritonectomy were performed through a mid-line incision. Unexpectedly, the appendiceal tip was attached to peri-hepatic tissue with the appendix adhered to the surrounding peritoneum and bowel. Completion of the appendectomy was possible in retrograde order after extension of the surgical incision above the umbilicus. Our findings suggest that preoperative image evaluation for location or position of the appendix might be helpful in patients with suspected endometriosis to offer correct counselling, obtaining adequate consent, determining the optimal surgical approach and scheduling opportune intraoperative consultation by a colorectal surgeon.