Our Summary

This research paper examines the results of a less invasive surgical method for cervical cancer, called laparoscopic radical hysterectomy, at a hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The study looks back at patients with specific types of cervical cancer who had this surgery from 2010 to 2015.

The patients in the study had different types of cervical cancer, but all had no evidence of cancer in their lymph nodes. The study excluded patients who had a type of cancer called neuroendocrine carcinoma, had more than one primary cancer, had radiation treatment to the abdomen or pelvis, or were treated at a different hospital.

The researchers found that out of the 108 patients, about 15% saw their cancer return after the surgery. For patients with smaller tumors (2 cm or less), the recurrence rate was a bit lower at 12%. After three years, about 81% of the patients were still disease-free, and after five years, about 70% were disease-free.

Overall, the results suggest that this less invasive surgery might have a higher risk of cancer recurrence compared to more traditional surgery. Based on these findings, the hospital has decided to switch back to the traditional, more invasive method of surgery (open radical hysterectomy) for treating cervical cancer.

FAQs

  1. What is the laparoscopic radical hysterectomy method for cervical cancer mentioned in the study?
  2. What were the cancer recurrence rates found in the study for patients who had the laparoscopic radical hysterectomy?
  3. Why has the hospital decided to switch back to the traditional, more invasive method of surgery for treating cervical cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip that a doctor might give a patient about radical hysterectomy is to discuss with them the potential risks and benefits of the surgery, including the possibility of cancer recurrence. It is important for patients to understand that while a less invasive surgical method like laparoscopic radical hysterectomy may have its advantages, there may be a slightly higher risk of cancer returning compared to traditional surgery. Patients should have an open and honest conversation with their healthcare provider about the best treatment option for their individual case.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended radical hysterectomy include those with early-stage cervical cancer, specifically those with tumors that are 2 cm or less in size and have no evidence of cancer in the lymph nodes. Patients with larger tumors or those with evidence of cancer in the lymph nodes may not be good candidates for radical hysterectomy and may require alternative treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both.

It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for their specific situation. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of different treatment options, including the risk of cancer recurrence, in order to make informed decisions about their care.

Timeline

Before the radical hysterectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with cervical cancer
  • Patient undergoes various tests and imaging to determine the stage and extent of the cancer
  • Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare team, including the possibility of a radical hysterectomy
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations, which may include blood work, imaging, and other tests
  • Patient receives counseling and support to prepare for the surgery

After the radical hysterectomy:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to remove the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and part of the vagina
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a period of time to recover from the surgery
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and side effects from the surgery
  • Patient receives follow-up care and monitoring to check for any signs of cancer recurrence
  • Patient may undergo additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the stage and type of cancer
  • Patient may experience changes in their physical and emotional well-being due to the surgery and cancer diagnosis

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after a radical hysterectomy can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific details of the surgery and cancer diagnosis. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to understand their treatment options and receive the necessary support throughout the process.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of undergoing a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy compared to an open radical hysterectomy?
  2. How does the recurrence rate for cervical cancer differ between laparoscopic and open radical hysterectomy procedures?
  3. What criteria make a patient a suitable candidate for a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy?
  4. How does the recovery process differ between laparoscopic and open radical hysterectomy surgeries?
  5. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with undergoing a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy?
  6. What is the success rate of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy in terms of preventing cancer recurrence compared to open radical hysterectomy?
  7. Are there any specific follow-up procedures or treatments that should be considered after undergoing a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy?
  8. How does the overall survival rate compare between patients who undergo laparoscopic radical hysterectomy versus open radical hysterectomy?
  9. Are there any ongoing clinical trials or research studies investigating the effectiveness of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy for treating cervical cancer?
  10. What are the reasons for the hospital’s decision to switch back to the traditional, more invasive method of surgery for treating cervical cancer?

Reference

Authors: Odetto D, Puga MC, Saadi J, Noll F, Perrotta M. Journal: Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2019 Jun;29(5):863-868. doi: 10.1136/ijgc-2019-000323. PMID: 31155517