title: Laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy. A protocol for reducing urinary tract complications.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate a protocol that was designed to reduce the incidence of urinary tract complications from laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy.
  
  
  METHODS
  The procedure commences with elevation of the bladder and insertion of illuminated ureteral catheters. The laparoscopic portion is then carried out, and the specimen is removed vaginally. The abdominal cavity is then inspected laparoscopically.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The average hospital stay was 32 hours. Except for one, the patients were able to return to normal activities within two weeks. No complications were noted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The early results of this procedure are encouraging. The procedure is easily learned and can be helpful to even the most accomplished surgeons.
authors.affiliation: Institute for Advanced Endoscopic Training, Gynecology and Reproductive Care Center, Annandale, Virginia, USA.
authors.forename: J D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Paulson
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007045:Hysterectomy, Vaginal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods*; D015994:Incidence; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods*; D007902:Length of Stay; D008875:Middle Aged; D013997:Time Factors; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000209:etiology*