title: Laparoscopic hysterectomy--a step forward?
abstract: Laparoscopic gynaecological surgery has made tremendous progress since the last decade and the introduction of laparoscopic hysterectomy has gained immense popularity amongst both gynaecologists and consumers alike in its short history of 5 years. This review surveys the literature available on this technique and critically evaluates the indications, limitations as well as the benefits and risks of this approach to hysterectomy. There is some evidence presently that laparoscopic hysterectomy may offer benefits to selected patients who otherwise have indications for an abdominal hysterectomy. Overall, the incidence of laparotomy for hysterectomy may be decreased by converting a portion of these patients to the laparoscopically-assisted vaginal approach.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore.
authors.forename: F H
authors.initials: FH
authors.lastname: Loh
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Canis
authors.forename: S C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Ng
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods*; D007045:Hysterectomy, Vaginal / Q000379:methods; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods; D007813:Laparotomy; D018579:Patient Selection; D012307:Risk Factors; D013997:Time Factors