Abdominal hysterectomy versus transvaginal morcellation for the removal of enlarged uteri

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the intraoperative and postoperative complications of transvaginal morcellation and abdominal hysterectomy for the removal of moderately enlarged uteri. Study Design: An observational study was performed on all uteri weighing > 200 gm removed transvaginally from July 1, 1987, to June 30, 1993. An abdominal hysterectomy control group was selected. Results: There were 50 patients in the vaginal group and 112 in the abdominal group. At a p value p p p p Conclusions: In selected patients transvaginal morcellation is a safe and effective alternative to abdominal hysterectomy for the removal of moderately enlarged uteri. The two procedures are comparable in operative time, blood loss, and complications. Both ovaries are more likely to be removed with abdominal hysterectomy. Cosmesis and recuperation may be advantages of the vaginal approach.