Laparoskopisk assisteret vaginal hysterektomi ved prae- og peroperativt vurderet stadium I-endometriecancer

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. MATERIALS AND 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. CONCLUSION: 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.