Hysteroscopic myomectomy: The guidelines of the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE)

An alternative for hysteroscopic myomectomy: Ultrasound-guided single-step myomectomy for submucous myoma uteri with ring forceps, a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

Hysteroscopic myomectomy is widely regarded as safe and feasible, although achieving single-session results for larger myomas often requires alternative methods. This study introduces a novel approach: ultrasound-guided myoma extirpation using ring forceps combined with hysteroscopy.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study includes patients who underwent ultrasound-guided myoma extirpation between 2016 and 2024. Data were collected retrospectively, and myomas were classified according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics leiomyoma subclassification system. Under ultrasound guidance, the myoma was extirpated using ring forceps. The pre-, peri-, and postoperative outcomes were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients were included, with a mean age of 44.76 ± 8.09 years. Most patients (92%) were premenopausal, and the primary symptoms were irregular bleeding (76%) and menorrhagia (68%). The median myoma size was 3 cm (interquartile range [IQR]: 2-4 cm). The median operation time was 30 min (IQR: 20-42 min). There was no statistically significant correlation between the duration of the operation and the diameter of the myoma uteri. Most myomas were located in the fundus, left side, or anterior wall (20% each), with 60% classified as type 0. Postoperative assessments revealed no residual myomas in 84% of cases. Uterine perforation and cervical laceration occurred as complications in two cases, while four cases required an additional session. Two patients with infertility achieved full-term pregnancies post-surgery.

CONCLUSION

This new, minimally invasive technique might be a feasible option for large myomas, particularly in low-resource settings. It minimizes the need for multiple sessions, providing reassuring results for patients with suitable indications.

AMH and Kisspeptin Receptor Expression in Rare Hydropic Leiomyoma: A Case Study

BACKGROUND Leiomyomas are common benign uterine tumors (BUMTs) with diverse histopathological subtypes and variable clinical presentations. While most are asymptomatic, some cause significant morbidity, including abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and pain. Hydropic leiomyomas (HLMs) are rare variants histopathologically characterized by zonal edema and may pose diagnostic challenges, particularly when located in atypical sites such as the retroperitoneal space. This report presents a case of a retroperitoneal HLM with strong expression of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and its receptor (AMHR2), and kisspeptin (KISS1) and its receptor (KISS1R), suggesting potential new therapeutic targets. CASE REPORT A 44-year-old woman presented with acute lower abdominal pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a well-circumscribed, pedunculated retroperitoneal mass originating posteriorly from the uterine body-cervix junction. MRI findings suggested a benign mesenchymal tumor but could not exclude malignancy. Surgical excision was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed HLM. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated strong nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of AMH, AMHR2, KISS1, and KISS1R in tumor cells, making this the first reported case of such expression in HLM. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course, and no recurrence was observed during a 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This case underscores the diagnostic complexity of retroperitoneal HLMs and the importance of MRI in differentiating BUMTs from malignancies. Strong AMH, AMHR2, KISS1, and KISS1R expression suggests a potential role of these regulatory proteins in HLM pathophysiology. Further research on targeted modulation of these pathways may provide novel therapeutic approaches for BUMTs, particularly in cases where conventional treatments are limited.

Transcervical resection of myoma (TCRM): Part II

In the part I, we have already reported the rationale, efficacy, complication, and limitation of using transcervical resection of myoma (TCRM) in the management of women with symptomatic uterine fibroids, particularly for those belonging to the International Federation of Gynaecology & Obstetrics (FIGO) myoma classification system as FIGO types 0-2. The current review as part II, the discussion will focus on the techniques, tips and complication prevention or management when TCRM is applied in the management of women with symptomatic submucosal myoma. With better understanding for TCRM-related basic knowledge, such as rationale, efficacy, complication, technique review, tips and prevention or management of complications, plus the well-training and carefully performing TCRM through preceding accurate diagnosis, and good and careful preparation and intensive monitoring during operation and using effective strategy to preventing short-term and long-term complications, TCRM can become one of most powerful strategies in offering the less traumatic injury to the uterus, and an effective and safe surgical approach in dealing with women with symptomatic submucosal myoma.

Perforated bowel following hysteroscopy with myomectomy in the emergency department

BACKGROUND

Abdominal pain remains a top chief complaint for patients presenting to the emergency department (ED). Benign or emergent etiologies can present similarly. A thorough history and physical examination are critical for emergency physicians, especially for post-operative patients with concerns for a possible bowel perforation. Hysteroscopies with myomectomies are a minimally invasive surgical technique to remove fibroids. Gynecologic procedures historically have a low incidence of bowel perforation, however, in patients with post-operative pain presenting to the ED, distinguishing between a normal post-operative course and a post-operative complication can be challenging.

CASE

A 33-year-old female with a history of obesity, colitis, type II diabetes, and hypertension presented to the freestanding ED with complaints of severe lower abdominal following a hysteroscopy with myomectomy earlier that day. The initial differential diagnosis had concern for a surgical complication, although her computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis revealed mildly dilated loops of small bowel, suggestive of a low-grade small bowel obstruction (SBO) or enteritis. On reassessment, she noted pre-operative diarrhea after taking antibiotics. After admission, a transvaginal ultrasound revealed a collection of fluid in her pelvis prompting a diagnostic laparoscopy. Two enterotomies in her ileum with two uterine defects were successfully repaired, and she recovered several days later with minimal complications.

DISCUSSION

This patient initially presented with abdominal pain associated with nausea and vomiting following a hysteroscopy with myomectomy, where initial testing led to a possible diagnosis of enteritis. Due to her continued abdominal pain, the ED physician admitted the patient, and it was found that she had two ileum perforations from suspected uterine perforations.

Transcervical resection of myoma (TCRM): Part I

Uterine fibroids occur frequently in women during the reproductive age, and they are rarely associated with clinical meaning because of their benign characteristics and asymptomatic clinical presentation. Sometimes, uterine fibroids are symptomatic and associated with compression syndrome, infertility, chronic pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. All need further intervention and treatment. Medication is often preferred and frequently applied but symptom-control rate is varied, resulting the need of further active treatment. An effective but minimally invasive procedure such as surgery is sometimes used as back up strategy in the management of women with no response to medical treatment. Additionally, fertility-sparing or uterus-preservation is the main goal and becomes very popular in both physicians and patients. Conservative surgical treatment can be made according to myoma location. Simply, myoma is classified as submucosal, intramural and subserous types. However, to offer a practical standardized consensus for the description and categorization of myomas, the International Federation of Gynaecology & Obstetrics (FIGO) classification system from type 0 to type 8 is established, which is often used for guiding patient management and offering prognostic information, because submucosal myoma (FIGO type 0, 1, probable 2, and possible 3) is frequently associated with symptoms or signs, needing a further intervention. Transcervical resection of myoma (TCRM, also called as hysteroscopic myomectomy: HM) is the treatment of choice for submucosal myoma, and this increased trend is secondary to its nearly non-trauma in nature, even compared to other MIS, such as mini-laparotomy and laparoscopic or robotic approach. Although TCRM is becoming more and more popular in modern clinical practice, the risks and limitations of TCRM are often overlooked. In this review as part I, we will focus on the rationale, efficacy, complication, and limitation of using TCRM in the management of women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Under the well-training and carefully performing TCRM, TCRM not only provides the less traumatic injury to the uterus, but also offers an effective and safe strategy in dealing with symptomatic submucosal myoma.

Surgical parameters affecting procedure duration of hysteroscopic fibroid resection: results of a retrospective longitudinal study

PURPOSE

To identify and analyze the main surgical parameters affecting the operative time of hysteroscopic fibroid resection.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study included 65 cases of outpatient hysteroscopic fibroid resection performed between March 2021 and May 2023 in outpatient office setting. Patients aged 18-50 with various indications such as infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) were included. The operative time, fibroid size, FIGO classification, and fibroid localization were recorded and analyzed using ANOVA, Chi-square test, and linear regression models.

RESULTS

The average operative duration for all surgeries was 557.41 (± 449.52) s. A significant correlation between fibroid size and operative time was found in FIGO 0 (p = 0.0003) and FIGO 1 (p < 0.0001) subgroups, with weaker correlation in FIGO II (p = 0.039). FIGO I surgeries took significantly longer than FIGO 0 (p = 0.044), and fundal fibroids were associated with longer operative times compared to posterior fibroids (p = 0.0329).

CONCLUSION

The size and FIGO classification of fibroids significantly influence operative time during hysteroscopic resection. Smaller and more accessible fibroids (FIGO 0 and 1) are resected faster than those embedded deeper in the uterine wall (FIGO 2). Detailed preoperative evaluation of fibroid characteristics can better predict operative time, aiding in patient preparation and optimized analgesia and perioperative planning as well as optimizing the use of operating theater. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to validate these findings and explore additional influencing factors.

Revolutionizing diffuse uterine leiomyomatosis treatment: A case report and literature review on "no-distension" hysteroscopic myomectomy with thoracic tissue forceps

Diffuse uterine leiomyomatosis (DUL) is a prevalent leiomyoma variant in women of childbearing age, characterized by a uniformly enlarged uterus with numerous interconnected small myomas. Given that most DUL patients are in their reproductive years, treatments that preserve fertility are increasingly vital. This case report introduces an innovative hysteroscopic technique that forgoes uterine distension to remove multiple submucosal fibroids in a single procedure, maintaining endometrial integrity and fertility. A 27-year-old single woman experienced prolonged and heavier menstruation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed an enlarged uterus with several round-like masses in the uterine wall/submucosa. Addressing the patient's financial limitations and treatment preferences, a groundbreaking hysteroscopic surgery was performed using thoracic tissue forceps, alongside bedside ultrasonography, enabling fibroid excision without uterine distension. In total, 38 uterine fibroids were successfully excised without complications such as uterine perforation or hyponatremia. According to the FIGO classification system: three were type III, nine were type II, 15 were type I, and 11 were type 0. Postoperative follow-up indicated normalized menstrual cycles, improved hemoglobin levels, and no recurrence of fibroids. A hysteroscopic examination 1 month after surgery revealed no significant fibroids or endometrial thickening. This case report underscores the effectiveness of a novel hysteroscopic surgical approach in treating DUL. This method eliminates the need for multiple staged surgeries and the risks of endometrial damage inherent in traditional techniques. It offers a minimally invasive, fertility-preserving alternative for young DUL patients, marking a significant advancement in gynecologic surgery.

A New Intrauterine Adhesions Classification System: The "Loddo Score"

Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) and Asherman's syndrome (AS) have been recognized medical conditions since the late 19th and mid-20th centuries. Multiple classification systems have been proposed to better understand their severity and implications. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing classifications for IUAs and introduces the Loddo scoring system, a novel approach for classifying these conditions. The Loddo scoring system is unique in amalgamating the strengths of previous classifications while emphasizing the importance of ultrasonographic endometrial thickness. This new system integrates various clinical parameters, offering a holistic representation of IUAs in clinical presentation and underlying structural changes. The Loddo scoring system presents a refined approach to understand and manage IUAs, providing a precise prognosis evaluation. Bridging the diagnostic and therapeutic divide seen in past systems, it offers promise for reshaping the landscape of diagnosis and treatment in women's health. Further research and validation are essential to assess its broad clinical applicability.

Guideline No. 453: Endometrial Ablation in the Management of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

OBJECTIVE

To provide an update of the current evidence-based guideline on the techniques and technologies used in endometrial ablation, a minimally invasive technique for the management of abnormal uterine bleeding of benign origin.

TARGET POPULATION

Women of reproductive age with abnormal uterine bleeding and benign pathology with or without structural abnormalities.

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

Implementation of the guideline recommendations will improve the provision of endometrial ablation as an effective treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding. Following these recommendations would allow the surgical procedure to be performed safely and maximize success for patients.

EVIDENCE

The guideline was updated with published literature retrieved through searches of Medline and the Cochrane Library from January 2014 to April 2023, using appropriate controlled vocabulary and keywords (endometrial ablation, hysteroscopy, menorrhagia, heavy menstrual bleeding, abnormal uterine bleeding, hysterectomy). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies written in English. Grey (unpublished) literature was retrieved from the Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Quebec (AOGQ) in 2023.

VALIDATION METHODS

The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. See Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and conditional [weak] recommendations).

INTENDED AUDIENCE

Obstetricians, gynaecologists, and primary care providers.

SOCIAL MEDIA ABSTRACT

This is an updated version of the 2015 SOGC Endometrial Ablation guideline. The authors discuss special considerations, update evidence, and make new fluid deficit recommendations.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Risk assessment and prediction of occult uterine sarcoma in patients with presumed uterine fibroids before high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment

OBJECTIVE

To develop a diagnostic model for predicting occult uterine sarcoma in patients with presumed uterine fibroids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 41631 patients with presumed uterine fibroids who presented for HIFU treatment in 13 hospitals between November 2008 and October 2023. Of these patients, 27 with occult uterine sarcoma and 54 with uterine fibroids were enrolled. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistics regression analysis were used to determine the independent risk factors for the diagnosis of occult uterine sarcoma. A prediction model was constructed based on the coefficients of the risk factors.

RESULTS

The multivariate analysis revealed abnormal vaginal bleeding, ill-defined boundary of tumor, hyperintensity on T2WI, and central unenhanced areas as independent risk factors. A scoring system was created to assess for occult uterine sarcoma risk. The score for abnormal vaginal bleeding was 56. The score for ill-defined lesion boundary was 90. The scores for lesions with hypointensity, isointensity signal/heterogeneous signal intensity, and hyperintensity on T2WI were 0, 42, and 93, respectively. The scores for lesions without enhancement on the mass margin, uniform enhancement of tumor, and no enhancement in the center of tumor were 0, 20, and 100, respectively. Patients with a higher total score implied a higher likelihood of a diagnosis of occult uterine sarcoma than that of patients with a lower score. The established model showed good predictive efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that the diagnostic prediction model can be used to evaluate the risk of uterine sarcoma in patients with presumed uterine fibroids.

Feasibility, safety and efficacy of high intensity focused ultrasound ablation as a preoperative treatment for challenging hysteroscopic myomectomy

PURPOSE

To investigate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of high intensity focused ultrasound ablation (HIFU) as a preoperative treatment for challenging hysteroscopic myomectomies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 75 patients diagnosed with types 0-III of uterine fibroids were enrolled. Based on the Size, Topography, Extension of the base, Penetration and lateral Wall position (STEPW) classification scoring system, 25 cases with a score ≥ 5 points were treated with HIFU followed by hysteroscopic myomectomy (HIFU + HM group), whereas 50 cases with a score < 5 points were treated with hysteroscopic myomectomy (HM group).

RESULTS

The median preoperative STEPW score was 7 in the HIFU + HM group and 2 in the HM group. The average non-perfused volume (NPV) ratio achieved in fibroids after HIFU was 86.87%. Patients in the HIFU + HM group underwent hysteroscopic myomectomy one to four days after HIFU, and downgrading was observed in 81.81% of fibroids. The operation time for patients in the HIFU + HM group was 73 min and the success rate of myomectomy in a single attempt was 60%. The volume of distention medium used during the operation was greater in the HIFU + HM group than in the HM group (15,500 ml vs. 7500 ml). No significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of intraoperative blood loss, the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications, menstrual volume score, or uterine fibroid quality of life score.

CONCLUSION

HIFU can be utilized as a preoperative treatment for large submucosal fibroids prior to hysteroscopic myomectomy. HIFU offers a novel approach in the management of this subset of patients.

Abnormal uterine bleeding: The well-known and the hidden face

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a bleeding from the uterine corpus that is abnormal in regularity, volume, frequency or duration. It encompasses heavy menstrual bleeding, irregular menstrual bleeding and intermenstrual bleeding, which are common symptoms among women of reproductive age, impacting their overall well-being. Menstruation involves interactions between endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, immune cell influx, and changes in endometrial vasculature. These events resemble an inflammatory response with increased vessel permeability, tissue breakdown, and the arrival of innate immune cells. However, the mechanisms of menstrual cessation are poorly understood. AUB can be related to structural causes (polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy/hyperplasia) and nonstructural conditions (coagulopathy, ovulatory dysfunction, endometrial, iatrogenic). While transvaginal ultrasound is the primary method for the screening of intracavitary lesions, saline infusion sonohysterography is more accurate to detect endometrial polyps and submucous leiomyomas, while hysteroscopy with biopsy remains the reference method for a definitive diagnosis. The main goals in managing AUB are addressing and correcting the underlying primary cause, if possible, and establishing a regular bleeding pattern or amenorrhea, which can be done with antifibrinolytic agents, progestins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists, or surgical interventions, each one with specific indications and limitations. Further research is necessary to assess the effectiveness and the long-term effects of various medical and surgical treatments. Meanwhile, the availability of diagnostic methods such as transvaginal ultrasound and hysteroscopy and the universal distribution of medical treatments for AUB should be prioritized by policymakers to minimize the diagnostic and treatment delay and thus reduce the risk of AUB-related anemia and the need of hysterectomy.

Cesarean Myomectomy: Reflections on Clinical and Surgical Controversies between a New Trans-Decidual Technique vs. Traditional Method

Up to 70-80% of women of reproductive age may be affected with the most common uterine tumors, known as fibroids or myomas. These benign tumors are the second most prevalent cause of surgery among premenopausal women. Predictions show that the occurrence of myomas in pregnancy will increase, and that the risk of having myomas during pregnancy increases with advanced maternal age. Although most women with fibroids do not experience any symptoms during pregnancy, up to 30% of women experience problems during pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium. The viability of myoma excision during cesarean surgery (CS) is a contentious issue raised by the rising incidence of myomas in pregnancy and CS rates. A new surgical procedure for removing fibroids using a trans-endometrial approach, which involves making an incision through the decidua itself, has put into doubt the long-standing practice of cesarean myomectomy (CM) with a trans-serosal approach. Some authors have recently advocated for this last approach, highlighting its advantages and potential uses in real-world situations. The purpose of this paper is to critique the present approach to cesarean myomectomy by analyzing the clinical and surgical distinctions between the two approaches and providing illustrations of the CM methods.

Submucous leiomyoma: an uncommon cause of heavy menstrual bleeding in early adolescence

Uterine leiomyomas are rare in the paediatric population. This report describes a rare case of a submucous leiomyoma in an adolescent girl. The patient presented with a history of abnormal and painful period which was refractory to medical treatment. Sonographic findings revealed a uterine mass that protruded through the cervix until the upper third of the vagina. A hysteroscopic resection was performed, and a pathological examination confirmed a leiomyoma. 12 months after surgery, there were no signs of recurrence. Conservative sparing-fertility management, such as hysteroscopic resection, is the best option with a type 0 submucosal fibroid, especially in adolescents and young women.

Use of Diode Laser in Hysteroscopy for the Management of Intrauterine Pathology: A Systematic Review

Background: Hysteroscopy currently represents the gold standard for the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine pathologies. Recent technological progress has enabled the integration of diagnostic and operative time, leading to the "see and treat" approach. Diode laser technology is emerging as one of the most innovative and intriguing techniques in this context. Methods: A comprehensive search of the literature was carried out on the main databases. Only original studies reporting the treatment of intrauterine pathologies using diode laser were deemed eligible for inclusion in this systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023485452). Results: Eight studies were included in the qualitative analysis for a total of 474 patients undergoing laser hysteroscopic surgery. Eighty-three patients had female genital tract abnormalities, 63 had submucosal leiomyomas, 327 had endometrial polyps, and one patient had a scar pregnancy. Except for leiomyomas, whose technique already included two surgical times at the beginning, only seven patients required a second surgical step. Cumulative rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications of 2.7% and 0.6%, respectively, were reported. Conclusions: Diode laser through "see and treat" hysteroscopy appears to be a safe and effective method. However, additional studies with larger sample sizes and improved designs are needed to consolidate the evidence currently available in the literature.

Guideline No. 446: Hysteroscopic Surgery in Fertility Therapy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the indications, benefits, and risks of hysteroscopy in the management of patients with infertility and provide guidance to gynaecologists who manage common conditions in these patients.

TARGET POPULATION

Patients with infertility (inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse) undergoing investigation and treatment.

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

Hysteroscopic surgery can be used to diagnose the etiology of infertility and improve fertility treatment outcomes. All surgery has risks and associated complications. Hysteroscopic surgery may not always improve fertility outcomes. All procedures have costs, which are borne either by the patient or their health insurance provider.

EVIDENCE

We searched English-language articles from January 2010 to May 2021 in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Science Direct, Scopus, and Cochrane Library (see Appendix B for MeSH search terms).

VALIDATION METHODS

The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. See Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and conditional recommendations).

INTENDED AUDIENCE

Gynaecologists who manage common conditions in patients with infertility.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

When offering hysteroscopic surgery to patients with infertility, ensure it improves the live birth rate.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Pregnancy outcomes following ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound in submucous leiomyomas: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) on pregnancy in submucous leiomyomas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between October 2015 and October 2021, a retrospective observational study was conducted at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, China, for 32 women with submucous leiomyomas who became pregnant after USgHIFU. Pregnancy outcomes, submucous leiomyomas characteristics, and USgHIFU parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 17 (53.1%) deliveries were successfully achieved, with full-term delivery in 16 (94.1%) patients and preterm delivery in 1 (5.9%). After USgHIFU, the effective volume in the uterus cavity and the volume of submucous leiomyomas shrank in all 32 patients. The median time to achieve pregnancy after USgHIFU was 11.0 months. Before pregnancy, myoma type was downgraded in 13 (40.6%) patients, stable in 10 (31.3%) and upgraded in 9 (28.1%). The vaginal expulsion rate of submucous leiomyomas was 28.1%, with complete expulsion in 3 (9.4%) patients and partial expulsion in 6 (18.8%). After USgHIFU, the size of submucous leiomyomas did not increase in each trimester (all p > 0.05). The high complications rate during pregnancy (7/17, 41.2%) was associated with advanced maternal age, with only one (5.9%) premature rupture of membranes possibly associated with submucous leiomyomas. There were 6 (35.5%) vaginal delivery and 11 (64.7%) cesarean sections. All 17 newborns developed well, with a mean birth weight of 3482 g.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with submucous leiomyomas, pregnancies and full-term deliveries can be successfully achieved following USgHIFU, with few related complications.

Revolutionizing hysteroscopy outcomes: AI-powered uterine myoma diagnosis algorithm shortens operation time and reduces blood loss

Background

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) powered algorithm in clinical decision-making is globally popular among clinicians and medical scientists. In this research endeavor, we harnessed the capabilities of AI to enhance the precision of hysteroscopic myomectomy procedures.

Methods

Our multidisciplinary team developed a comprehensive suite of algorithms, rooted in deep learning technology, addressing myomas segmentation tasks. We assembled a cohort comprising 56 patients diagnosed with submucosal myomas, each of whom underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations. Subsequently, half of the participants were randomly designated to undergo AI-augmented procedures. Our AI system exhibited remarkable proficiency in elucidating the precise spatial localization of submucosal myomas.

Results

The results of our study showcased a statistically significant reduction in both operative duration (41.32 ± 17.83 minutes vs. 32.11 ± 11.86 minutes, p=0.03) and intraoperative blood loss (10.00 (6.25-15.00) ml vs. 10.00 (5.00-15.00) ml, p=0.04) in procedures assisted by AI.

Conclusion

This work stands as a pioneering achievement, marking the inaugural deployment of an AI-powered diagnostic model in the domain of hysteroscopic surgery. Consequently, our findings substantiate the potential of AI-driven interventions within the field of gynecological surgery.

Surgical management of uterine fibroids

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Fibroids are benign pelvic masses and constitute the most common gynaecological condition. They create a significant health and social burden to many women because of heavy menstrual bleeding and fibroid pressure symptoms. Many women will be faced with the dilemma of surgical management to improve their symptoms at some point of their reproductive age. The aim of this article is to identify current surgical management of fibroids describing the technical steps, advantages, disadvantages and risks of each method.

RECENT FINDINGS

The surgical management of fibroids remains challenging, as the overall prevalence, the clinical experience and the patient awareness is increasing because of an upgrade in our sonographic and magnetic resonance diagnostic tools. Unfortunately not every patient is able to benefit from tailor-made surgery that holistically evaluates individual needs including fertility aspirations.

SUMMARY

This article provides the most current synopsis of every available surgical modality for fibroid management. Large prospective multicentre cohort studies are needed to definitely determine the most suitable operation for any individual suffering with fibroids; and perhaps artificial intelligence may offer a valuable tool in the future data analysis.

Comparative analysis of the clinical efficacy and reproductive outcomes of the hysteroscopic tissue removal system (MyoSure) and hysteroscopic electroresection in the treatment of benign intrauterine lesions

OBJECTIVE

To compare and analyze the clinical efficacy and reproductive outcomes of the hysteroscopic tissue removal system (MyoSure) and hysteroscopic electroresection in the treatment of benign intrauterine lesions in women of reproductive age.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of patients with benign intrauterine lesions treated with MyoSure or hysteroscopic electroresection. The primary outcomes were operative time and resection completeness, and reproductive outcomes were followed up and compared. Secondary outcomes included perioperative adverse events and postoperative adhesions seen during second-look hysteroscopy. Data analysis was performed using χ2 and Fisher tests for qualitative variables and Student t-test for quantitative variables.

RESULTS

The operative times of patients with type 0 or I myoma, endometrial polyps, or retained products of conception in the MyoSure group were shorter than those in the electroresection group but were not significantly different for patients with type II myomas. The complete resection rate was lower in the MyoSure group than in the electroresection group. The degree of decrease in the American Fertility Society score of intrauterine adhesion in the MyoSure group was significantly higher (2.90 ± 1.29 points vs 1.31 ± 0.89 points, P = 0.025). The time to pregnancy and the pregnancy rate were higher in the MyoSure group (13.14 ± 7.85 months vs 16.26 ± 8.22 months, P = 0.040; 65.12% vs 54.55%, P = 0.045), but there was no significant difference in the term live birth rate, premature birth rate, or abortion rate between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

MyoSure has advantages of a shortened operative time and improvement in reproductive outcomes such as pregnancy rate. However, for type II myomas, MyoSure has limitations, and a comprehensive evaluation before the procedure is required.

Uterine artery embolization in Tanzania: a procedure with major public health implications

BACKGROUND

The burden of uterine fibroids is substantial in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with up to 80% of black women harboring them in their lifetime. While uterine artery embolization (UAE) has emerged as an effective alternative to surgery to manage this condition, the procedure is not available to the vast majority of women living in SSA due to limited access to interventional radiology (IR) in the region. One of the few countries in SSA now offering UAE in a public hospital setting is Tanzania. This study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of UAE in this new environment.

METHODS

From June 2019 to July 2022, a single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted at Tanzania's first IR service on all patients who underwent UAE for the management of symptomatic fibroids or adenomyosis. Patients were selected for the procedure based on symptom severity, imaging findings, and medical management failure. Procedural technical success and adverse events were recorded for all UAEs. Self-reported symptom severity and volumetric response on imaging were compared between baseline and six-months post-procedure using paired sample t-tests.

RESULTS

During the study period, 92.1% (n = 35/38) of patients underwent UAE for the management of symptomatic fibroids and 7.9% (n = 3/38) for adenomyosis. All (n = 38/38) were considered technically successful and one minor adverse event occurred (2.7%). Self-reported symptom-severity scores at six-months post-procedure decreased in all categories: abnormal uterine bleeding from 8.8 to 3.1 (-5.7), pain from 6.7 to 3.2 (-3.5), and bulk symptoms from 2.8 to 1 (-1.8) (p < 0.01). 100% of patients reported satisfaction with outcomes. Among the nine patients with follow-up imaging, there was a mean volumetric decrease of 35.5% (p = 0.109).

CONCLUSIONS

UAE for fibroids and adenomyosis can be performed with high technical success and low complication rates in a low-resource setting like Tanzania, resulting in significant symptom relief for patients. Building capacity for UAE has major public health implications not only for fibroids and adenomyosis, but can help address the region's leading cause of maternal mortality, postpartum hemorrhage.

Optimal treatment options for uterine submucosal fibroids: Percutaneous microwave ablation versus transcervical resection of myoma

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA) and transcervical resection of myoma (TCRM) for submucosal fibroids.

METHODS

From January 2019 to January 2021, we conducted a randomized controlled study involving patients with symptomatic uterine submucosal fibroids. Questionnaires were also used to measure the uterine fibroid symptom (UFS) scores and quality of life (QoL) scores before and after treatment at 3, 6, and 12 months. Outcomes, adverse events, hemoglobin recovery, and submucosal fibroid volume of both groups were also compared. Operation time, amount of bleeding, hospital stay time, and occurrence of complications were compared in groups with fibroids of different lengths.

RESULTS

Follow-up after surgery showed that UFS scores at 3, 6, and 12 months were significantly lower in each group, while QoL scores increased significantly. For fibroids less than 3 cm, surgical time was 34.2 ± 9.9 min, incidence of perioperative complications was 4.2%, and both decreased significantly, compared to the surgical time of the PMWA group (40.0 ± 8.1 min) and incidence of perioperative complications (24%; p < .05 for both). For uterine submucosal fibroids >5 cm, the operation time in the PMWA group was 92.7 ± 16.0 min, intraoperative bleeding volume was 22.7 ± 6.4 mL, and hospital stay was 2.7 ± 1.1 days, which were significantly less than the procedural time (107 ± 11.9 min), intraoperative bleeding loss (45.9 ± 12.8 mL), and length of hospital stay (5.0 ± 1.1 days) in the TCRM group. The differences were statistically significant (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

PMWA and TCRM were both effective treatments for uterine submucosal fibroids. For fibroids shorter than 3 cm in length, especially pedicled submucosal fibroids, TCRM has absolute advantages; however, for uterine submucosal fibroids >5 cm, PMWA avoids perioperative complications, such as uterine perforation, water poisoning syndrome, and the need for repeat surgery, and is considered the preferred mode of treatment. Therefore, personalized treatment should be used for different patients with uterine submucosal fibroids.

Uterine artery embolization combined with percutaneous microwave ablation for the treatment of prolapsed uterine submucosal leiomyoma: A case report

BACKGROUND

Vaginal myomectomy is the most common form of radical treatment for prolapsed submucosal leiomyoma and is typically performed under general anesthesia. However, an alternative treatment approach is needed for patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia. We describe a case with such a patient who was successfully treated via a minimally invasive method under local anesthesia.

CASE SUMMARY

A 46-year-old female suffered from abnormal uterine bleeding, severe anemia, and a reduced quality of life attributed to a massive prolapsed submucosal leiomyoma. She could not tolerate general anesthesia due to a congenital thoracic malformation and cardiopulmonary insufficiency. A new individualized combined treatment, consisting uterine artery embolization (UAE), percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA) of the pedicle and the endometrium, and transvaginal removal of the leiomyoma by twisting, was performed. The lesion was completely removed successfully under local anesthesia without any major complications. The postoperative follow-up showed complete symptom relief and a significant improvement in the quality of life.

CONCLUSION

UAE combined with PMWA can be performed under local anesthesia and is a promising alternative treatment for patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia.

Minimal alveolar concentration of sevoflurane in combination with dexmedetomidine in patients with hysteroscopy: An up-down sequential allocation study

BACKGROUND

Dexmedetomidine is commonly used in hysteroscopy surgery due to its analgesia and sedation without respiratory depression. Many studies have shown that dexmedetomidine can reduce the consumption of sevoflurane. However, the optimal end-tidal concentration of sevoflurane when it is co-administered with dexmedetomidine has not been established. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the minimal alveolar concentration (MAC) of sevoflurane for cervical dilatation combined with different doses of dexmedetomidine in patients with hysteroscopy surgery.

METHODS

One-hundred patients undergoing hysteroscopy surgery were enrolled in this clinical trial. All the patients were randomly assigned into four groups (C, D₁ , D₂ , D₃ ) and received a loading dose of dexmedetomidine (0, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 μg/kg) over 10 min before anaesthesia induction, respectively. Anaesthesia was induced in each patient with 5% sevoflurane in 100% oxygen via a facemask. A laryngeal mask (LMA) was inserted when the patient had lost consciousness and the BIS value decreased below 40. The response to cervical dilatation stimulus (movement vs non-movement) by the insert of hysteroscope was recorded. The MAC of sevoflurane was measured by up and down sequential method of Dixon and Mood and centred isotonic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The calculated MAC of sevoflurane using up-and-down method of Dixon and Mood in patients with hysteroscopy surgery was (1.90 ± 0.13)%, (1.23 ± 0.16)%, (1.03 ± 0.10)% and (0.93 ± 0.08)% in groups C, D₁ , D₂ and D₃ , respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of dexmedetomidine can significantly decrease the MAC of sevoflurane for hysteroscopy surgery. However, a ceiling effect of the reduction was observed when the dose of dexmedetomidine was higher than 0.8 μg/kg.

Comparison of Hysteroscopic Morcellation Versus Resectoscopy in Treatment of Patients with Endometrial Lesions: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND Hysteroscopic surgery has been widely used in clinical practice for more than 30 years due to its advantages of less trauma, less bleeding, and direct vision. The aim of this study was to compare hysteroscopic morcellation versus conventional resectoscopy for removal of endometrial lesions. MATERIAL AND METHODS For the database search, we used the keywords "morcellator," "morcellators," "morcellate," "morcellation," and "morcellated" combined with "hysteroscopy," "hysteroscopy," "uteroscope," and "transcervical". The last search was conducted on February 1, 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the meta-analysis. RESULTS According to our retrieval scheme and the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we found 6 studies including 565 patients. For enumeration data, we calculated the effect size as relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), while for quantitative data we used the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). There was no significant difference between success rate of hysteroscopic morcellation and conventional resectoscopy (relative risk and 95% confidence interval 1.05(0.97,1.13); P=0.232). Procedure time was also shorter with hysteroscopic morcellation, the procedure time of the hysteroscopic morcellation group was 3.43 min shorter compared with the conventional resectoscopy group, and the operating time in the hysteroscopic morcellation group was 2.81 min shorter. In terms of fluid deficit, there was no statistically significant difference in fluid loss between the 2 groups (P=0.209). CONCLUSIONS Hysteroscopic morcellation is associated with a shorter procedure time and operative time among patients with endometrial lesions compared with resectoscopy.