Our Summary

This study aimed to compare two types of robotic surgery used to remove fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the uterus) - the single-site method (RSS) and the multi-port method (RMP). The researchers looked at 236 surgeries and then narrowed it down to 90 patients in each group that were similar in terms of the number and size of fibroids and the patient’s age. They found no significant differences in the patients’ weight, number of previous pregnancies, blood hemoglobin levels, and type of fibroids between the two methods. The RSS group was younger, had fewer fibroids removed, and the fibroids were smaller in size compared to the RMP group. The RSS method also had a shorter total surgery time and patients reported less pain the day after surgery. However, the RSS method took a bit longer to set up. The amount of blood loss, need for blood transfusion, and length of hospital stay were similar for both methods. The researchers concluded that the RSS method is a viable option as it offers shorter surgery time and less post-surgery pain.

FAQs

  1. What were the main differences found between the single-site method (RSS) and the multi-port method (RMP) in the study?
  2. What advantages does the RSS method offer according to the study?
  3. Were there any significant differences in patient recovery between the two robotic surgery methods?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering myomectomy that the single-site robotic surgery method (RSS) may result in shorter surgery time and less post-surgery pain compared to the multi-port method (RMP). This could be a helpful tip for patients weighing their options for fibroid removal surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended myomectomy typically have symptomatic fibroids that are causing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, or other symptoms. They may have tried other treatments such as medications or hormonal therapy that have not been effective in managing their symptoms. Patients who are considering future pregnancy may also be recommended myomectomy to preserve fertility. It is important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine if myomectomy is the best treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before myomectomy:

  1. Patient consults with their gynecologist or surgeon about symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or infertility.
  2. Patient undergoes imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to confirm the presence of fibroids.
  3. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider and decides to undergo myomectomy.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are a good candidate for surgery.

After myomectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes robotic myomectomy surgery, either using the single-site method (RSS) or the multi-port method (RMP).
  2. Patient may experience shorter surgery time and less post-surgery pain with the RSS method.
  3. Patient is monitored in the hospital for a period of time post-surgery to ensure there are no complications.
  4. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort in the days following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital and instructed on post-operative care, including follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider.
  6. Patient may experience improvements in symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain as they recover from surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about myomectomy include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with myomectomy surgery?
  2. How long will it take to recover from the surgery and when can I return to normal activities?
  3. Will there be any scarring or changes to my uterus after the surgery?
  4. Are there alternative treatments to myomectomy that I should consider?
  5. Will my fertility be affected by the surgery?
  6. How many fibroids do I have and what is the size of the largest fibroid?
  7. What type of myomectomy method do you recommend for my specific case?
  8. What is the success rate of myomectomy in treating my symptoms?
  9. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take before or after the surgery to improve my recovery?

Reference

Authors: Ahn SH, Park JH, Kim HR, Cho S, Lee M, Seo SK, Choi YS, Lee BS. Journal: BMC Surg. 2021 May 27;21(1):264. doi: 10.1186/s12893-021-01245-9. PMID: 34044817