Our Summary

This research paper examines the use of a robot-assisted surgery method, specifically a modified radical hysterectomy, with the removal of lymphatic vessels, in patients with endometrial cancer. This method uses a green dye called indocyanine green (ICG). The study looked at 34 cases where this method was used and compared them with 54 patients who had the surgery without the removal of lymphatic vessels.

The results showed that the time it took to perform the surgery was about the same whether the lymphatic vessels were removed or not. Additionally, when the sentinel lymph nodes (the first nodes to which cancer is likely to spread) were found, the success rate of removing the lymphatic vessels was 100%.

In conclusion, this robot-assisted surgery method with the removal of lymphatic vessels using ICG is effective for endometrial cancer. It’s a straightforward procedure that doesn’t take extra time and can thoroughly remove tissue from the uterus, including the lymphatic vessels.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of using indocyanine green (ICG) in the robot-assisted surgery method for endometrial cancer?
  2. Does the removal of lymphatic vessels during the surgery affect the time it takes to perform the procedure?
  3. How effective is the robot-assisted surgery method with the removal of lymphatic vessels in treating endometrial cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing a radical hysterectomy to ask about the possibility of using a robot-assisted surgery method with the removal of lymphatic vessels, as it has been shown to be effective in treating endometrial cancer.

Suitable For

Patients with endometrial cancer, specifically those who have been diagnosed with early-stage disease and are candidates for surgery, are typically recommended radical hysterectomy. This procedure involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissues, including lymph nodes in the pelvis.

In particular, patients with endometrial cancer who have a high risk of lymph node involvement or metastasis may benefit from a radical hysterectomy. This includes patients with high-grade tumors, deep invasion of the myometrium (muscle layer of the uterus), and lymphovascular invasion. These factors indicate a higher likelihood of cancer spread beyond the uterus and may warrant more extensive surgical intervention to remove any potentially affected lymph nodes.

Additionally, patients with endometrial cancer who are younger and desire fertility preservation may also be candidates for radical hysterectomy, as this procedure allows for the removal of the cancerous tissue while preserving the ovaries for future fertility options.

Ultimately, the decision to recommend radical hysterectomy for patients with endometrial cancer is based on a variety of factors, including the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, the patient’s overall health and preferences, and the expertise of the surgical team. It is important for patients to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before the radical hysterectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with endometrial cancer.
  2. Patient meets with their healthcare provider to discuss treatment options.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluations.
  4. Patient schedules and prepares for the surgery, which may include fasting and bowel preparation.

After the radical hysterectomy:

  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room post-surgery.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the abdominal area.
  3. Patient is monitored closely for any complications or side effects.
  4. Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days for observation and recovery.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues to recover at home.
  6. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for post-operative care and monitoring.
  7. Patient may undergo adjuvant therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the stage and type of cancer.
  8. Patient continues with regular follow-up appointments and screenings to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a radical hysterectomy and how is it different from a traditional hysterectomy?
  2. Why is the removal of lymphatic vessels important in the treatment of endometrial cancer?
  3. What are the potential risks and benefits of undergoing a radical hysterectomy with the removal of lymphatic vessels?
  4. How does the use of indocyanine green (ICG) during the surgery help in identifying and removing lymphatic vessels?
  5. What is the success rate of this robot-assisted surgery method with the removal of lymphatic vessels in treating endometrial cancer?
  6. What is the recovery process like after undergoing a radical hysterectomy with the removal of lymphatic vessels?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available for endometrial cancer that do not involve a radical hysterectomy?
  8. How often will follow-up appointments be needed after undergoing this surgery?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with undergoing a radical hysterectomy with the removal of lymphatic vessels?
  10. What should I expect in terms of prognosis and quality of life after undergoing this surgery for endometrial cancer?

Reference

Authors: Tanaka T, Nishie R, Ueda S, Hashida S, Miyamoto S, Terada S, Kogata Y, Taniguchi K, Komura K, Ohmichi M. Journal: Int J Med Robot. 2022 Dec;18(6):e2451. doi: 10.1002/rcs.2451. Epub 2022 Aug 19. PMID: 35960009