[Laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy in preoperative and peroperative assessment of stage I endometrial cancer].
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (with and without pelvic lymphadenectomy) in the staging and treatment of stage I endometrioid endometrial cancer.


METHODS
A prospective series of consecutive patients with primary operable endometrial cancer referred to Odense University Hospital between 01.01.2006 and 31.03.2007. All patients were evaluated and a laparoscopic treatment was planned when considered appropriate.


RESULTS
72 consecutive patients with primary operable endometrial cancer were included in the study. 35 patients (48%) were successfully treated with a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy. 12 (34%) of them were also treated with a pelvic lymphadenectomy. The median number of lymph nodes removed was 15 (range 10-32). The median operating time was 80 minutes (60-180) without lymphadenectomy and 140 (105-200) minutes with lymphadenectomy. No intraoperative or serious postoperative complications were registered. 26 (74%) out of 35 patients treated by laparoscopy were discharged on the first or second postoperative day.


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy is a safe and effective alternative to laparotomy in the staging and treatment of stage I endometrioid endometrial cancer.
Traen
Koen
K
Odense Universitetshospital, Gynaekologisk-obstetrisk Afdeling D, Odense C.
Svane
Danny
D
Kryger-Baggesen
Niels
N
Mogensen
Ole
O
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D016889:Endometrial Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007045:Hysterectomy, Vaginal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D007430:Intraoperative Care; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008197:Lymph Node Excision; D008875:Middle Aged; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D011300:Preoperative Care; D011446:Prospective Studies