Does Surgical Treatment of Atypical Endometrial Hyperplasia Require Referral to a Gynecologic Oncologist

Abstract Patients with atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) in the United States are commonly referred to a gynecologic oncologist given a moderate risk of concurrent carcinoma. However, selective referral of patients to non-oncologic gynecologic surgeons for surgical treatment of AEH may offer increased access to care without compromising clinical outcomes. Non-oncologic surgeons who consider providing surgical treatment for AEH must be able to offer minimally invasive surgery when appropriate and have sufficient surgical volume to deliver optimal clinical outcomes. Patients considering referral to a non-oncologic surgeon must be thoroughly counseled regarding the risk of occult malignancy, the possibility of a second surgery for lymph node evaluation and/or oophorectomy, and the risk of morbidity that may accompany a second surgery. Available data suggest that approximately 2-6% of patients will have postoperative risk factors meriting consideration of a second surgery. Patients who are high-risk surgical candidates or who may desire non-surgical or fertility-sparing treatment should universally be referred for consultation with a gynecologic oncologist.