Laparoscopic resection of a noncommunicating, rudimentary uterine horn using the harmonic scalpel: a report of 3 cases.
BACKGROUND
Noncommunicating, rudimentary uterine horns are often removed to prevent potential pregnancy complications or to treat patients who develop pain from functional endometrium within the horn. Historically, these have been removed via laparotomy. Recently, resections of noncommunicating uterine horns have been performed laparoscopically using many different devices. We report 3 patients who underwent laparoscopic resection using the harmonic scalpel.


METHODS
Three patients were diagnosed with this condition at our institution between 2000 and 2003. All underwent laparoscopic resection using the harmonic scalpel without complications. All patients were discharged from the hospital on the day of surgery. Two patients subsequently had term vaginal deliveries.


CONCLUSIONS
Resection of a rudimentary uterine horn by laparoscopy using the harmonic scalpel is an option for patients diagnosed with noncommunicating, rudimentary uterine horns. This modality might offer some advantages for patients who must undergo resection.
Barnacle
Scott J
SJ
Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wilford Hall Medical Center/Brooke Army Medical Center, Texas, USA.
Robinson
Randal D
RD
Malinowski
Marshall J
MJ
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D014464:Ultrasonic Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D014599:Uterus / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*