Laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy: one group's experience.

ABSTRACT Laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) has been reported worldwide. We report our experience with LAVH in 51 patients, 23 with the laparoscopic stapling device, 12 with a combination of stapler and bipolar coagulation, and 16 by bipolar coagulation exclusively. No operations were converted to laparotomy, and there were few minor complications. Average operating time was 1 h and 38 min. Hospital stay averaged 2.2 days. Average hospital costs were greater for the stapling devices ($7815.00) compared with bipolar coagulation ($7150.00). Postoperative patient satisfaction was high (96%), with high resolution of the symptoms (94%). We conclude that LAVH is a safe, effective operation in selected cases and may be a valid alternative to abdominal hysterectomy. (J GYNECOL SURG 10:155,1994)