Our Summary

The research paper is about a comparison of two types of surgical procedures used for total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) - a surgery that removes a woman’s uterus. One procedure uses a 2D (two-dimensional) laparoscopy system, which is the conventional method. The other uses a newer 3D (three-dimensional) laparoscopy system, which was introduced to help surgeons better perceive depth during the operation.

The researchers looked at 47 TLH surgeries performed using the 3D system from November 2014 to December 2015, and compared the outcomes with those from surgeries performed using the 2D system just before the 3D system was introduced.

The main finding was that surgeries using the 3D system took less time on average than those using the 2D system. However, the weight of the removed uterus and the amount of blood loss during surgery were similar in both groups. When they looked at 20 cases from each group over a short period of time, again the only significant difference was the operation time.

During the observation period, there was one case of post-surgery infection in the 2D group and one case of a wound reopening in each group. These were not significantly different. The surgeons didn’t report any side effects from using the 3D system, such as dizziness, eye strain, nausea or headaches.

Therefore, the researchers concluded that the 3D laparoscopic system can be used safely and efficiently for TLH surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What are the main differences between the 2D and 3D laparoscopy systems used in total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH)?
  2. Did the 3D laparoscopic system show any significant improvements over the 2D system in the study?
  3. Were there any reported side effects from using the 3D laparoscopic system in TLH surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about laparoscopic hysterectomy using a 3D system is that it may result in a shorter operation time compared to the traditional 2D system. This can potentially lead to a quicker recovery and less time spent under anesthesia. Additionally, the 3D system does not appear to have any significant side effects or negative outcomes compared to the 2D system, so patients can feel confident in its safety and effectiveness.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for laparoscopic hysterectomy typically include those with conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, or uterine prolapse. Additionally, patients who are seeking a minimally invasive surgical option with quicker recovery times and less scarring may also be recommended for laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Timeline

Before the laparoscopic hysterectomy:

  • Patient undergoes pre-operative consultation and evaluation by the surgeon
  • Patient may need to undergo pre-operative tests such as blood work, imaging studies, and possibly a pelvic exam
  • Patient receives instructions on fasting before surgery, medications to avoid, and other pre-operative preparations
  • Patient arrives at the hospital on the day of surgery, gets prepped for the procedure, and receives anesthesia

After the laparoscopic hysterectomy:

  • Patient wakes up in the recovery room post-surgery
  • Patient may experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications
  • Patient is monitored for any immediate post-operative complications
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital once stable and able to walk and urinate
  • Patient receives instructions for post-operative care, including wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments
  • Patient may experience some bleeding, discharge, and fatigue in the days following surgery
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improvements in symptoms that led to the hysterectomy
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about laparoscopic hysterectomy using a 3D system include:

  1. What are the potential benefits of using a 3D laparoscopic system for my hysterectomy compared to the conventional 2D system?
  2. Are there any specific risks or complications associated with using the 3D system for this surgery?
  3. How does the use of a 3D system impact the overall success and outcomes of the hysterectomy procedure?
  4. Will the operation time be shorter with the 3D system, and how does this affect my recovery time and overall experience?
  5. Are there any additional costs associated with using a 3D laparoscopic system for my hysterectomy?
  6. Have you had experience using the 3D system for this type of surgery, and what is your opinion on its effectiveness and safety?
  7. Are there any specific factors about my medical history or condition that make me a good candidate for a laparoscopic hysterectomy using a 3D system?
  8. What should I expect in terms of post-operative recovery and follow-up care if I choose to have a hysterectomy using the 3D system?
  9. Are there any alternative surgical approaches or technologies that I should consider for my hysterectomy, and how do they compare to the 3D system?
  10. Can you provide me with any additional information or resources to help me make an informed decision about using a 3D laparoscopic system for my hysterectomy?

Reference

Authors: Yazawa H, Takiguchi K, Imaizumi K, Wada M, Ito F. Journal: Fukushima J Med Sci. 2018 Apr 17;64(1):38-45. doi: 10.5387/fms.2017-22. Epub 2018 Mar 15. PMID: 29540624