Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study performed at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where robotic surgery was used to treat hidden (“occult”) cervical cancer in women who had previously undergone a specific type of hysterectomy. The surgery, called Robotic Radical Parametrectomy with Upper Vaginectomy (RRPV), and a lymph node removal procedure were performed on 17 patients.

There were a few complications during surgery, including bowel and bladder injuries, and one patient needed a blood transfusion. After the surgery, three patients needed additional treatment with chemotherapy and radiation, but no patients experienced a return of their cancer. Unfortunately, one patient passed away from unknown causes several years after their surgery.

The researchers also surveyed other studies on this type of surgery and found that while it is generally a safe and effective option, there are currently no specific indicators that can predict which patients may need additional treatment after surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is Robotic Radical Parametrectomy with Upper Vaginectomy (RRPV)?
  2. What were the results of the study conducted at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill regarding the use of robotic surgery for treating hidden cervical cancer?
  3. Are there any known indicators that can predict which patients may need additional treatment after undergoing a Robotic Radical Parametrectomy with Upper Vaginectomy (RRPV)?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a radical hysterectomy to follow their post-operative care instructions closely, including taking any prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and monitoring for any signs of complications such as excessive bleeding, infection, or difficulty urinating. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to support healing and overall well-being. Additionally, discussing any concerns or questions with your healthcare team can help ensure a successful recovery process.

Suitable For

Typically, patients recommended for radical hysterectomy are those with early-stage cervical cancer, where the cancer is confined to the cervix and has not spread to other parts of the body. This type of surgery may also be recommended for patients with certain gynecological conditions such as severe endometriosis or large, benign tumors in the uterus. In some cases, patients with precancerous lesions or other abnormalities in the cervix may also be recommended for radical hysterectomy as a preventive measure.

It is important for patients to discuss their individual circumstances with their healthcare provider to determine if radical hysterectomy is the best treatment option for their specific condition. Factors such as age, overall health, and the stage and type of cancer will all play a role in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

Timeline

Before the radical hysterectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with hidden cervical cancer
  • Consultation with medical team to discuss treatment options
  • Decision is made to undergo Robotic Radical Parametrectomy with Upper Vaginectomy (RRPV) surgery
  • Pre-operative preparation and testing

After the radical hysterectomy:

  • Surgery is performed, with potential complications such as bowel and bladder injuries
  • Recovery period in hospital and at home
  • Follow-up appointments with medical team to monitor progress
  • Some patients may require additional treatment with chemotherapy and radiation
  • No cancer recurrence in most patients, but one patient passed away from unknown causes years later
  • Continued monitoring for long-term outcomes and potential side effects of treatment

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about radical hysterectomy include:

  1. What is the specific type of hysterectomy that will be performed (e.g. radical hysterectomy, robotic radical parametrectomy with upper vaginectomy)?
  2. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery, including potential complications and risks?
  3. Will I need additional treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation after the surgery?
  4. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  5. Are there any specific indicators or factors that may indicate a need for additional treatment post-surgery?
  6. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the surgery?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery to optimize my recovery and long-term health?
  8. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for treating hidden cervical cancer?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options or second opinions I should consider before proceeding with the surgery?
  10. How experienced is the surgical team in performing this type of surgery, and what is their success rate with similar cases?

Reference

Authors: Tran AQ, Sullivan SA, Gehrig PA, Soper JT, Boggess JF, Kim KH. Journal: J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2017 Jul-Aug;24(5):757-763. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2017.02.016. Epub 2017 Feb 22. PMID: 28254677