Our Summary

This study looks at the effectiveness of a specific surgical procedure for patients with severe endometriosis. The procedure is called a “laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy,” and it was performed on 52 patients at a single hospital between 2012 and 2021. The majority of patients also underwent a procedure to separate the ureter (tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder) from the surrounding tissue. On average, patients stayed in the hospital for about three days. About a quarter of the patients experienced minor complications, while about 4% had severe complications. Two patients needed additional surgery. Nearly all of the patients saw a complete removal of their endometriosis, and the majority reported improvement after their surgery. The authors conclude that this surgery seems to be a reliable treatment with a low risk of severe complications, but further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What is a “laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy” and how is it performed?
  2. What were the common complications faced by patients undergoing this procedure?
  3. What were the success rates of the laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy procedure in terms of endometriosis removal and patient improvement?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about radical hysterectomy is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. It’s important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your doctor promptly to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended radical hysterectomy include those with:

  1. Cervical cancer
  2. Uterine cancer
  3. Ovarian cancer
  4. Endometrial cancer
  5. Severe endometriosis that has not responded to other treatments
  6. Large fibroids or tumors in the uterus
  7. Chronic pelvic pain or heavy menstrual bleeding that has not responded to other treatments

It is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of radical hysterectomy with their healthcare provider to determine if it is the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before the radical hysterectomy:

  • Patient undergoes consultation with a gynecologist to discuss treatment options for severe endometriosis
  • Patient may undergo various tests and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease
  • Patient and healthcare team discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as potential alternatives
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative preparation, which may include blood tests, physical examination, and instructions for the day of surgery

After the radical hysterectomy:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for signs of complications, such as infection or bleeding
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the days following the surgery
  • Patient is given instructions for post-operative care, including medication management, wound care, and activity restrictions
  • Patient may have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and discuss any concerns or questions
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improvements in symptoms related to endometriosis, such as pain and fertility issues.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery time and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments or medications after the surgery?
  5. What are the chances of the endometriosis coming back after this surgery?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or implications of having a radical hysterectomy?
  7. How will this surgery affect my fertility and hormonal balance?
  8. What is the success rate of this procedure in treating severe endometriosis?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider?
  10. What is the follow-up care plan after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Darlet G, Margueritte F, Drioueche H, Fauconnier A. Journal: J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2024 May;31(5):423-431. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2024.01.022. Epub 2024 Feb 6. PMID: 38325580