The feasibility of laparoscopic bowel resection performed by a gynaecologist to treat endometriosis.
OBJECTIVE
Intestinal endometriosis is commonly diagnosed in the setting of deeply infiltrating endometriosis. A multidisciplinary team that includes gynaecologists and general surgeons traditionally performs laparoscopic bowel resections for symptomatic patients. Recently, Pereira et al. has published the results of a series of patients who underwent laparoscopic bowel resection for endometriosis performed by a team of gynaecologic surgeons, after a period of experimental training with animals and joining participation with general surgeons in the first cases. It is suggested that gynaecologic surgeons may be able to perform laparoscopic bowel resections for endometriosis, if properly trained, although the results may not be reproducible.


RESULTS
A review of recent literature related to laparoscopic bowel resections for endometriosis showed that the learning curve and experience of the surgeon may be the most important predictive factors for the effectiveness of the procedure. Results concerning major operative complications and clinical remission were considered satisfactory in both single and multidisciplinary approaches, that is, laparoscopic bowel resections performed by gynaecologic and colorectal surgeons. Protective colostomies or ileostomies could not reduce the rate of rectovaginal fistulae in multidisciplinary experiences.


CONCLUSIONS
The single-surgeon model approach in laparoscopic excision of endometriosis that includes bowel resection may provide advantages for both the patients and healthcare system. The best model should be decided on the maximum benefit of the patient.
Pereira
Ricardo Mendes Alves
RM
Huntington Reproductive Medicine Center, São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. ricardopereira@gmail.com
Zanatta
Alysson
A
Serafini
Paulo C
PC
Redwine
David
D
D002983:Clinical Competence; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D004715:Endometriosis / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*