Initial experience with supracervical laparoscopic hysterectomy and removal of the cervical transformation zone.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the feasibility and outcome of laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy with removal of the cervical transformation zone.


METHODS
A prospective clinical study.


METHODS
The department of Gynaecology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford.


METHODS
Eleven consecutive women who were on the waiting list for abdominal hysterectomy and fulfilled the selection criteria.


METHODS
Laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy using a modification of the classical abdominal supracervical hysterectomy technique with removal of the cervical transformation zone.


METHODS
Operating time, blood loss, duration of hospital stay, time to full recovery and complications.


RESULTS
All 11 procedures were successfully completed laparoscopically. The mean operating time was 111 min, and mean blood loss was 185 ml. The mean duration of hospital stay was three days, and the mean time to full recovery was 20 days. There were no major complications.


CONCLUSIONS
Laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy appears to result in a shorter hospital stay and more rapid recovery than total abdominal hysterectomy. This shortened convalescence is of benefit to the patient. The operation appears to be safe when carried out by surgeons experienced in laparoscopic surgery. A randomised comparative study with total abdominal hysterectomy is currently being undertaken.
Ewen
S P
SP
Department of Gynaecology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK.
Sutton
C J
CJ
D000328:Adult; D016063:Blood Loss, Surgical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy / Q000379:methods*; D010535:Laparoscopy; D007902:Length of Stay; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome