Laparoscopy versus minilaparotomy in women with symptomatic uterine myomas: short-term and fertility results

Postoperative complications and unanticipated healthcare encounters following mini-laparotomy vs. laparoscopic/robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexy: a comparative retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Pelvic organ prolapse is a debilitating condition impacting lives of millions of women worldwide. Sacrocolpopexy (SCP) is considered an effective and durable surgical technique for treatment of apical prolapse. The aim of this study was to compare short-term outcomes including postoperative complications and unanticipated healthcare encounters between patients who underwent SCP with a mini-laparotomy approach compared to patients treated with laparoscopic and robotic-assisted laparoscopic SCP.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study including patients treated for apical prolapse at a university affiliated urogynecology practice. Patients over the age of 18 who underwent abdominal SCP between 2019 and 2023 were included. The cohort was formed into two groups: (1) Patients who underwent SCP through a mini-laparotomy incision (Mini-lap group); (2) Patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic-assisted laparoscopic SCP (Lap/Robot group).

RESULTS

A total of 116 patients were included in the final analysis. Ninety patients underwent either laparoscopic or robotic-assisted SCP, whereas 26 patients underwent SCP with a mini-laparotomy approach. Study participants exhibited a mean age of 63.1 ± 10.3 years, mean body mass index (BMI) of 25.8 ± 4.9 Kg/m2, and 77.6% of them identified as Caucasian. Upon comparison of demographic and past medical history between groups there were no statistically significant differences in age, BMI, menopausal status, race, parity or comorbid conditions. Patients in the Mini-lap group were less likely to have undergone previous abdominal surgery (11.5% vs. 50.6%, p < 0.001) and had more severe apical prolapse (stage 4 prolapse, 40% vs. 21.2%, p < 0.001) than their counterparts in the Lap/robot group. Regarding intraoperative parameters, length of surgery was significantly shorter in the Mini-lap group compared to the Lap/robot group (97.3 ± 35.0 min vs. 242.0 ± 52.6 min, p < 0.001). When focusing on the primary outcome, postoperative complications within the first 30 days after surgery, there were no differences noted between groups. Additionally, the number of unanticipated healthcare encounters, such as phone calls, clinic visits, emergency department visits, urgent care visits, readmissions and reoperations were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Mini-laparotomy approach for SCP is safe with comparable intra- and postoperative complications, and unanticipated healthcare encounters compared to conventional minimally invasive methods.

Perioperative and reproductive outcomes' comparison of mini-laparotomy and laparoscopic myomectomy in the management of uterine leiomyomas: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare mini-laparotomy (MLPT) with laparoscopic (LPS) myomectomy perioperative and reproductive outcomes.

METHODS

We systematically searched for related articles in the MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane library databases. Nine studies (4 randomized, 3 retrospective, 1 prospective and 1 case-control study) which involved 1723 patients met the inclusion criteria and were considered eligible for inclusion.

RESULTS

Demographic characteristics were similar between the two groups. LPS was associated with shorter hospital stay (p = 0.04), lower blood loss (p < 0.00001), shorter duration of median ileus (p < 0.00001) and fewer episodes of postoperative fever (p = 0.04). None of the reproductive factors examined (pregnancy rate, preterm delivery, vaginal delivery and delivery with caesarean section) in women diagnosed with unexplained infertility and/or symptomatic leiomyomas reached statistical significance although the results represent a small size effect.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis demonstrated that LPS seems to be an alternative, safe and reliable surgical procedure for uterine leiomyoma treatment and in everyday practice seems to offer improved outcomes-regarding at least the perioperative period-over MLPT.

Exploring Surgical Strategies for Uterine Fibroid Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Literature on Open and Minimally Invasive Approaches

Background and Objectives: Uterine myomas represent one of the most prevalent pathologies affecting the female population. These benign neoplasms originate from the smooth muscular cells of the uterus, and they can be either single or multiple. Often associated with debilitating symptoms such as pelvic heaviness, pain, constipation, and urinary dysfunctions, the surgical management of myomectomy exhibits considerable variability. This diversity in approaches is influenced by factors such as the number and size of myomas, the patient's age, and overall clinical conditions. This study aims to elucidate and compare the advantages and disadvantages of different surgical approaches, specifically endoscopic procedures versus open surgery, providing valuable insights for clinical decision making. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive bibliographic search spanning from 2013 to 2023 was systematically conducted across databases including Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The search utilized keywords such as "myomectomy laparoscopic and open", "myomectomy open and minimally invasive", "myomectomy open and laparoscopic", and "myomectomy open vs. laparoscopic." The research methodology, along with predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, was established prior to the search, ensuring a systematic and rigorous approach. Subsequently, data analysis was carried out. Results: Following the study selection process, 25 articles met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this analysis. The average numbers of myomas were 3.7 (ranging from 1 to 13.7) and 5.4 (ranging from 1 to 13.5) for the minimally invasive surgery and open surgery groups, respectively. In terms of myoma size, the total averages across studies were 7 cm (ranging from 4.8 to 14) for the minimally invasive group and 8 cm (ranging from 3.9 to 11.2) for the open surgery group. The average pregnancy and delivery rates were 29.7% (ranging from 1.8 to 100) for the minimally invasive group and 28.5% (ranging from 1.8 to 100) for the open surgery group. Regarding complications, the average rate was 14.2% (ranging from 0 to 50) for the endoscopic group and 22.3% (ranging from 0 to 60.3) for the laparotomic group. Conclusions: In conclusion, a critical factor influencing the choice of surgical approach is primarily the size and quantity of fibroids. The mini-laparotomic approach emerges as a viable alternative to endoscopy, demonstrating favorable surgical outcomes and aesthetic results. Interestingly, the type of surgical procedure appears to have no significant impact on the pregnancy rate.

Comparison of operative and fertility outcomes of single-incision robotic myomectomy: a retrospective single-center analysis of 286 cases

To assess the short-term operative and fertility outcomes of single-incision robotic myomectomy. We performed this retrospective cohort study of 286 women who underwent robotic single-site myomectomy using the da Vinci® Xi surgical system (RSSM group, n = 70) or robotic single-port myomectomy using the da Vinci® SP surgical system (RSPM group, n = 216). Data were collected through chart reviews and telephone interviews. Except operating time (94.6 ± 30.1 min in RSSM vs. 81.7 ± 20.1 min in RSPM) and location of the removed fibroids, there were no significant differences in the operative outcomes or characteristics of the removed fibroids between both groups. The proportion of fibroids in the lateral wall in RSPM (13.4%) was approximately twice that in RSSM (6.3%). There was no conversion to laparotomy or multiport access, and none of the women required readmission in either group. No significant difference in the complication rate was noted between groups, and all complications were resolved with conservative treatment. During the approximately 20-month follow-up period, in the RSSM and RSPM groups, the pregnancy rates were 54.5% and 67.4%, respectively, and the abortion rates were 33.3% and 22.6%, respectively. In terms of operative and fertility outcomes, single-site robotic myomectomy appears to be feasible and safe in women with symptomatic fibroids. The da Vinci® SP system is thought to be helpful in reducing operation time and surgically difficult myomectomy.

Comparison of surgical and obstetric outcomes in women with uterine leiomyomas after laparoscopic vs. abdominal myomectomy: A single-center cohort study

Our aim was to study the advantages, complications and obstetrical outcomes of laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) compared with abdominal myomectomy (AM). We conducted a retrospective cohort study at La Paz University Hospital that included LMs and AMs performed between 2012 and 2018, analyzing 254 myomectomies (142 AMs [55.7%] and 112 LMs [43.9%]). The mean number of fibroids was 1.8 ± 1.5 and 3 ± 2.9 for the LM and AM groups, respectively (p < 0.006). The mean size of the largest myoma was 7.6 cm ± 2.7 cm and 10.2 cm ± 5.4 cm for the LM and AM groups, respectively (p < 0.001). LMs were associated with longer surgical times (p < 0.001) and shorter hospitalizations (p = 0.001). There were no significant differences in the intraoperative and postoperative complication rates (p = 0.075 and p = 0.285 for LM and AM, respectively). The subsequent pregnancy rate was higher for the LM group (30.8% vs. 16.8%, p = 0.009), with a vaginal delivery rate of 69% and no cases of uterine rupture.

Time to conceive after myomectomy: should we advise a minimum time interval? A systematic review

The optimal time interval between myomectomy and pregnancy is unclear and no specific guidelines exist. The aim of this review was to study the time interval from myomectomy to pregnancy and the occurrence of uterine rupture after myomectomy. Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies and retrospective studies were used to assess the primary objective, and case reports, cases series or letters to the editor for the secondary objective. Only articles reporting myomectomy performed via the vaginal route, laparotomy, laparoscopy or robot-assisted surgery were selected for inclusion. Among 3852 women who wanted to become pregnant after the surgery, 2889 became pregnant, accounting for 3000 pregnancies (77.9%) and 2097 live births (54.4%). Mean time between myomectomy and pregnancy was estimated at 17.6 months (SD 9.2) for 2451 pregnant women. Among 1016 women, a third were advised to delay attempting to conceive for between 3 and 6 months and another third for between 6 and 12 months. A total of 70 spontaneous uterine ruptures with a mean gestational age of 31 weeks at occurrence were identified. No linear relationship was found between gestational age at the event and time interval from myomectomy to conception (P = 0.706). There are insufficient data to advise a minimal time interval between myomectomy and conception.

Non-hysteroscopic Myomectomy and Fertility Outcomes: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review of the literature to identify best practices for nonhysteroscopic myomectomy for women with myomas who desire future fertility. The focus areas included factors associated with conception and pregnancy outcomes after myomectomy, impact of surgical route (laparotomic, laparoscopic, and the incorporation of robot assistance), and preoperative findings and surgical techniques that have an impact on reproduction.

DATA SOURCES

Librarian-led electronic searches of the Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were performed from inception to February 2020. A targeted reference review was performed to update the original searches.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

The participants were women of reproductive age with myomas who underwent myoma removal surgery through laparotomic or laparoscopic approaches. The fertility outcomes included markers for ovarian reserve, clinical pregnancy rates, and pregnancy outcomes. We performed quality assessment using National Institutes of Health Study Quality Assessment Tools and developed clinical recommendations graded according to the strength of the evidence.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

The initial search identified 2163 studies, of which 51 met the inclusion criteria. These consisted of 11 studies that focused on the factors associated with conception or pregnancy outcomes after myomectomy, 10 studies that examined the route of nonhysteroscopic myomectomy, and 30 that were related to intraoperative techniques and findings. Overall, younger age, lower myoma number, and distortion of the endometrial cavity were associated with improved reproductive outcomes after myomectomy. The route of nonhysteroscopic myomectomy and intraoperative uterine artery occlusion did not significantly affect pregnancy rates or outcomes. Adhesion barriers present a possible target for further research.

CONCLUSION

This study provides insights into patient selection and intraoperative techniques for nonhysteroscopic myomectomy. Further research with well-designed clinical trials is needed to highlight the relationships between myoma characteristics (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics type, location, and size) and reproductive outcomes.

Comparison of uterine scarring between robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy and conventional laparoscopic myomectomy

This study compared uterine wound healing after robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RM) and laparoscopic myomectomy (LM). Ultrasound was used to evaluate the scar repair of uterine wounds at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Ninety-three RM and 110 LM patients were enrolled. More myomas excised using RM were type 1∼type 3(51.1%) and more myomas excised using LM were type 4∼type 6(54.2%), p < .001. Both groups had myomas of similar size (RM vs. LM, 9.0 vs. 8.4 cm, p = .115) and weight (RM vs. LM, 322 vs. 274 g, p = .102). The mean myoma number was significantly larger in RM patients than LM patients (RM vs. LM, 3.3 vs. 1.8, p < .001). Significantly more patients were found to have haematomas in the LM than the RM group (RM vs. LM, 0 vs. 6, p = .032); two in type 3, two in type 4 and two in type 8 myomas. Four small haematomas spontaneously resolved at the 3rd month, and a large one resolved at the 9th month postoperatively. One haematoma caused pelvic infection and a 7-cm peritoneal inclusion cyst during sonographic follow up. RM resulted in fewer postoperative haematomas and may result in superior uterine repair relative to LM after excision of symptomatic type 3, type 4 and type 8 myomas. RM is suggested for these patients, especially those considering future pregnancy.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Reconstructive suturing and uterine wound healing are the main challenges when performing laparoscopic myomectomy (LM), and spontaneous uterine rupture during pregnancy following LM has been reported because of its limitations in multilayer closure of the myoma bed. Robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RM) has improved visualisation and EndoWrist movements resulted in adequate multilayered suturing, which may overcome the technical limitations of reconstructive suturing in conventional LM.What do the results of this study add? We evaluated postoperative uterine scarring after RM and LM using ultrasound and found RM resulted in fewer postoperative haematomas, which result in superior uterine wound repair, relative to LM after excision of symptomatic type 3, type 4 and type 8 myomas.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? RM is suggested for symptomatic type 3, type 4 and type 8 myomas because of superior uterine wound repair, especially those considering future pregnancy.

Minimally Invasive Myomectomy: An Overview on the Surgical Approaches and a Comparison with Mini-Laparotomy

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common benign solid tumors of the female genital tract manageable by surgical of pharmacological approach. When the medical management is ineffective or surgery is primarily requested, several surgical approaches can be used. Among these, minimally invasive surgery might be preferred. Myomectomy is the standard surgical treatment when fertility sparing is claimed. It can be performed via laparoscopy, robotic surgery and hysteroscopy and the choice depend on UFs features and surgeon's skill. Alongside these minimally invasive options, mini-laparotomy has been proposed as a less invasive surgical approach comparable to the well-established minimally invasive options. The aim of this review is to describe the most recent advances in minimally invasive techniques to perform myomectomy, comparing them with mini-laparotomy approach.

Robot-assisted myomectomy

Uterine fibroids are the most common tumors of the uterus and the female pelvis and are associated with substantial morbidity for several women. In women with a wish to preserve fertility, a myomectomy is the surgical procedure of choice when medical therapy is inadequate. Despite evidence that minimally invasive surgery is preferable to laparotomy, most myomectomies are still performed by laparotomy. Robotic surgery was introduced to overcome some of the difficulties associated with laparoscopic surgery. A myomectomy is a suture-intensive surgery where the properties of a surgical robot have been suggested to be of particular value. Robotic myomectomy is feasible and safe, with similar outcome to laparoscopic surgery, although a robotic procedure is associated with a higher cost. The introduction of robotic surgery has expanded the indications for minimally invasive myomectomy to more complex cases previously performed by laparotomy. Randomized trials comparing different approaches to myomectomy are yet to be published. More studies are needed to determine the patients in whom a robotic approach is most beneficial, both in terms of patient outcomes and cost efficiency.

Laparoscopy or laparotomy as the way of entrance in myoma enucleation

PURPOSE

Uterine myomas are the main cause of benign uterine diseases in premenopausal women. Objective of the present paper is to investigate the current best treatment modalities of myomas, depending on age of the patient and her desire to preserve fertility, as well as on clinical presentation of this pathology, such as size, number, and location of fibroids and, furthermore, on surgical experience of the gynecologist.

METHODS

The design of our work is a systematic literature review of existing studies, reviews, and meta-analysis conducted in PubMed and Cochrane Library to identify relevant literature. Commonly, the myomectomy is to be recommended in women desiring to preserve fertility when myomas are associated with symptoms such as excessive bleeding, pelvic discomfort, or palpable abdominally fibroids. The decision of surgical approach for myomectomy should be individualized, depending on size and location, as well as on surgeon's experience. The different modalities of myomectomy, laparoscopic, hysteroscopic, robotic-assisted, or laparotomic are in detail presented in the paper, according to Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC) clinical practice guidelines and taking into consideration possible concerns of myomectomy such as uterine rupture, development of adhesions, and myomas' recurrence.

Recurrence factors and reproductive outcomes of laparoscopic myomectomy and minilaparotomic myomectomy for uterine leiomyomas

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine recurrence factors and reproductive outcomes of laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) and minilaparotomic myomectomy (MM) for treating uterine leiomyomas.

Methods

Between 2007 and 2013, 160 patients underwent myomectomy, including 122 who underwent LM and 38 who underwent MM. Patients were followed up for recurrence based on pelvic ultrasound exams. Only patients who were followed up for a minimum of two years were selected for this retrospective study. Pregnancy rate, delivery, and delivery methods were compared between the two groups to evaluate reproductive outcomes. Furthermore, mean age, body mass index, preoperative administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa), and characteristics of leiomyomas were investigated to determine recurrence factors.

Results

The mean body mass index in the MM group was significantly (P=0.048) higher than that in the LM group. The number and the largest diameter of removed leiomyoma were also significantly higher in the MM group (both P=0.001). Logistic regression after adjusting significantly different characteristics showed that the LM group had shorter (P=0.020) postoperative hospitalization days compared to the MM group. Other outcome variables including recurrence rate were not significantly different between the two groups. Reproductive outcomes such as pregnancy rate, delivery, and delivery methods were not significantly different between the two groups. Preoperative GnRHa therapy was the only significant (P=0.039) recurrence factor after myomectomy.

Conclusion

This study showed that LM and MM had similar recurrence rates and reproductive outcomes. The only recurrence factor of significance was preoperative administration of GnRHa.

Uterine fibroid management: from the present to the future

Uterine fibroids (also known as leiomyomas or myomas) are the most common form of benign uterine tumors. Clinical presentations include abnormal bleeding, pelvic masses, pelvic pain, infertility, bulk symptoms and obstetric complications.Almost a third of women with leiomyomas will request treatment due to symptoms. Current management strategies mainly involve surgical interventions, but the choice of treatment is guided by patient's age and desire to preserve fertility or avoid 'radical' surgery such as hysterectomy. The management of uterine fibroids also depends on the number, size and location of the fibroids. Other surgical and non-surgical approaches include myomectomy by hysteroscopy, myomectomy by laparotomy or laparoscopy, uterine artery embolization and interventions performed under radiologic or ultrasound guidance to induce thermal ablation of the uterine fibroids.There are only a few randomized trials comparing various therapies for fibroids. Further investigations are required as there is a lack of concrete evidence of effectiveness and areas of uncertainty surrounding correct management according to symptoms. The economic impact of uterine fibroid management is significant and it is imperative that new treatments be developed to provide alternatives to surgical intervention.There is growing evidence of the crucial role of progesterone pathways in the pathophysiology of uterine fibroids due to the use of selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) such as ulipristal acetate (UPA). The efficacy of long-term intermittent use of UPA was recently demonstrated by randomized controlled studies.The need for alternatives to surgical intervention is very real, especially for women seeking to preserve their fertility. These options now exist, with SPRMs which are proven to treat fibroid symptoms effectively. Gynecologists now have new tools in their armamentarium, opening up novel strategies for the management of uterine fibroids.

Management of uterine fibroids in pregnancy: recent trends

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The review analyzes how fibroids may influence pregnancy and how myomas may be modified by pregnancy. The most important clinical aspect concerns the impact of myoma on pregnancy and the possibility of a well tolerated surgical treatment for the mother and her fetus, preserving maternal reproductive capacity.

RECENT FINDINGS

Fibroids significantly increase in size during early pregnancy and then decrease in the third trimester. Although most women with uterine fibroids have a regular pregnancy, data from the literature suggest that they may have a higher risk of fertility problems and pregnancy complications.

SUMMARY

Myomectomy can increase the rate of pregnancy in women with infertility, attempting to restore a normal anatomy and reduce uterine contractility and local inflammation associated with the presence of fibroids, improving the blood supply. Current evidence does not suggest routine myomectomy during pregnancy or at the cesarean birth, as fibroids-related complications are rare and may be overcome by the risks of surgery. However, in selected cases, myomectomy is a feasible and safe technique and associated to a good outcome.The diagnosis of myomas in pregnancy may require attention for the adequate management to preserve maternal and fetal well-being.

Laparoscopic versus abdominal myomectomy: practice patterns and health care use in British Columbia

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relative frequency and surgical outcomes of laparoscopic myomectomy compared with abdominal myomectomy in British Columbia.

METHODS

A linked database containing hospital admission, operating room, and emergency room data from 2007 to 2011 from eight Vancouver Coastal Health and Providence Health Region hospitals in British Columbia was used to conduct a retrospective cohort study of women who had myomectomy for uterine fibroids. All consecutive women who had abdominal or laparoscopic myomectomy at five hospitals were included in the study. Patients who had submucosal fibroids or hysteroscopic procedures were excluded. Abdominal and laparoscopic myomectomies were contrasted in terms of patient characteristics and surgical outcomes. Statistical significance was assessed using t tests, Wilcoxon, chi-square, and Fisher exact test; a two-sided P value < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Of eight hospitals offering gynaecologic surgery, myomectomies were performed at five hospitals located in metropolitan areas. Of 436 women undergoing myomectomy, 88 cases (20.2%) were laparoscopic, 342 (78.4%) were abdominal, and 6 (1.38%) were laparoscopic with conversion to laparotomy. Women who had laparoscopic rather than abdominal myomectomies were slightly older (mean 38.7 vs. 37.4 years, respectively, P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed in median operative time (106 vs. 95 min), but length of stay was decreased for laparoscopic myomectomies (median 1 vs. 2 days, P < 0.01). No significant differences were observed between laparoscopic and abdominal routes in the rates of admission to intensive care, prolonged hospitalization (> 3 days), or rehospitalization.

CONCLUSION

Myomectomies are performed in urban, metropolitan areas in British Columbia, and a significant fraction of myomectomies are performed by laparoscopy. Compared with abdominal myomectomies, laparoscopic myomectomies in pre-selected patients are associated with decreased length of stay and comparable perioperative surgical outcomes.

Minimally invasive surgical techniques versus open myomectomy for uterine fibroids

BACKGROUND

Fibroids are common benign tumours arising in the uterus. Myomectomy is the surgical treatment of choice for women with symptomatic fibroids who prefer or want uterine conservation. Myomectomy can be performed by conventional laparotomy, by mini-laparotomy or by minimal access techniques such as hysteroscopy and laparoscopy.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the benefits and harms of laparoscopic or hysteroscopic myomectomy compared with open myomectomy.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (inception to July 2014), the Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group (MDSG) Specialised Register of Controlled Trials (inception to July 2014), MEDLINE(R) (inception to July 2014), EMBASE (inception to July 2014), PsycINFO (inception to July 2014) and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (inception to July 2014) to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs). We also searched trial registers and references from selected relevant trials and review articles. We applied no language restriction in these searches.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All published and unpublished randomised controlled trials comparing myomectomy via laparotomy, mini-laparotomy or laparoscopically assisted mini-laparotomy versus laparoscopy or hysteroscopy in premenopausal women with uterine fibroids diagnosed by clinical and ultrasound examination were included in the meta-analysis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We conducted study selection and extracted data in duplicate. Primary outcomes were postoperative pain, reported in six studies, and in-hospital adverse events, reported in eight studies. Secondary outcomes included length of hospital stay, reported in four studies, operating time, reported in eight studies and recurrence of fibroids, reported in three studies. Each of the other secondary outcomes-improvement in menstrual symptoms, change in quality of life, repeat myomectomy and hysterectomy at a later date-was reported in a single study. Odds ratios (ORs), mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and data combined using the fixed-effect model. The quality of evidence was assessed using Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methods.

MAIN RESULTS

We found 23 potentially relevant trials, of which nine were eligible for inclusion in this review. The nine trials included in our meta-analysis had a total of 808 women. The overall risk of bias of included studies was low, as most studies properly reported their methods.Postoperative pain: Postoperative pain was measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS), with zero meaning 'no pain at all' and 10 signifying 'pain as bad as it could be.' Postoperative pain was significantly less, as determined by subjectively assessed pain score at six hours (MD -2.40, 95% CI -2.88 to -1.92, one study, 148 women, moderate-quality evidence) and 48 hours postoperatively (MD -1.90, 95% CI -2.80 to -1.00, two studies, 80 women, I² = 0%, moderate-quality evidence) in the laparoscopic myomectomy group compared with the open myomectomy group. This means that among women undergoing laparoscopic myomectomy, mean pain score at six hours and 48 hours would be likely to range from about three points lower to one point lower on a VAS zero-to-10 scale. No significant difference in postoperative pain score was noted between the laparoscopic and open myomectomy groups at 24 hours (MD -0.29, 95% CI -0.7 to 0.12, four studies, 232 women, I² = 43%, moderate-quality evidence). The overall quality of these findings is moderate; therefore further research is likely to have an important impact on our confidence in the estimate of effect and may change the estimate.In-hospital adverse events: No evidence suggested a difference in unscheduled return to theatre (OR 3.04, 95% CI 0.12 to 75.86, two studies, 188 women, I² = 0%, low-quality evidence) and laparoconversion (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.44 to 2.83, eight studies, 756 women, I² = 53%, moderate-quality evidence) when open myomectomy was compared with laparoscopic myomectomy. Only one study including 148 women reported injury to pelvic organs (no events were described in other studies), and no significant difference was noted between laparoscopic myomectomy and laparoscopically assisted mini-laparotomy myomectomy (OR 3.04, 95% CI 0.12 to 75.86). Significantly lower risk of postoperative fever was observed in the laparoscopic myomectomy group compared with groups treated with all types of open myomectomy (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.77, I² = 0%, six studies, 635 women). This indicates that among women undergoing laparoscopic myomectomy, the risk of postoperative fever is 50% lower than among those treated with open surgery. No studies reported immediate hysterectomy, uterine rupture, thromboembolism or mortality. Six studies including 549 women reported haemoglobin drop, but these studies were not pooled because of extreme heterogeneity (I² = 97%) and therefore could not be included in the analysis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic myomectomy is a procedure associated with less subjectively reported postoperative pain, lower postoperative fever and shorter hospital stay compared with all types of open myomectomy. No evidence suggested a difference in recurrence risk between laparoscopic and open myomectomy. More studies are needed to assess rates of uterine rupture, occurrence of thromboembolism, need for repeat myomectomy and hysterectomy at a later stage.

Maternal-neonatal outcome in pregnancies with non-obstetric laparotomy during pregnancy

In this study maternal and neonatal outcome evaluated in each trimester of pregnancies with non obstetric laparotomies. In this descriptive-analytic study, 100 pregnant women operated during pregnancy were evaluated. Based on available data a questionnaire comprising general information, kind of surgery as well as the maternal-neonatal outcome was fulfilled. These outcomes were compared in the different gestational ages. In this study, 28 (28%), 48 (48%) and 24 (24%) patients had been operated in the first, second and third trimester, respectively. The patients of these three groups were matched for general characters. Sixty one patients had appendectomy, 30 adnexal mass or torsion, 6% cholecystectomy, 3% abdominal mass. Maternal complications were recorded in 6, 3 and 9% patient in 3rd, 2nd and 1st trimester of pregnancy, respectively. Abortion in first trimester was 8.2%. Low apgar in fifth minute and asphyxia were higher in third trimester. Appendectomy was the most common surgery in the pregnancy. Maternal and fetal complications were higher in third and first trimester. Besides obstetric and pediatric consultation before surgery are necessary for optimal safety of the woman and the fetus.

Patients' age, myoma size, myoma location, and interval between myomectomy and pregnancy may influence the pregnancy rate and live birth rate after myomectomy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate which clinical characteristics will influence the pregnancy rate and live birth rate after myomectomy.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Data of clinical characteristics and reproductive outcome from 471 patients who wished to conceive and who underwent abdominal or laparoscopic myomectomy in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University from January 2008 to June 2012 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Average age in the pregnancy group (30.0±3.7 years) and the nonpregnancy group (31.2±4.1 years) was statistically different (P=.000). The diameter of the biggest myoma had a positive relationship with the pregnancy rate when it was <10 cm (rs=0.095, P=.039). Abortions before myomectomy, operation type, number, location, and classification of myomas, uterine cavity penetration, and uterine volume seemed not to influence the pregnancy rate (P>.05). The location of the myoma may influence the live birth rate after myomectomy (rs=0.198, P=.002). Anterior and posterior myomas were associated with higher live birth rates than other locations (P=.001). The average interval between myomectomy and pregnancy was 16.0±8.7 months, and there was no difference between the abdominal (17.2±8.6 months) and laparoscopic (15.2±8.8 months) groups (P=.102). The interval in the live birth group was 15.0±8.4 months, and that in the non-live birth group was 18.9±9.3 months; the difference was significant (P=.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients' age, myoma size and location, and interval between myomectomy and pregnancy may influence the pregnancy rate and live birth rate after myomectomy.

Management of uterine leiomyomas in pregnancy: review of literature

The incidence of uterine myomas in pregnancy is estimated from 0.1 to 3.9 %. Although a lot of women with uterine fibroids bring the pregnancy without adverse events, data provided in the literature suggest that uterine fibromyomas are associated with several complications. The most important clinic question concerns the impact of myoma on pregnancy and, in some cases, the possibility of a surgical treatment that guarantees a good security for the pregnancy course and the conservation of reproductive capacity. Electronic search of Pubmed between 1993 and 2011, using specific keywords. Management of leiomyomas in pregnancy is conservative and limited, when it is necessary, to medical therapy. The main conditions that induce inevitably the surgical procedure are the torsion of pedunculated fibroid or rare cases of necrosis and resultant inflammatory peritoneal reaction. Laparoscopy technique has several advantages in comparison to previous techniques such as best postoperative course with reduction of pain, fast recovery, less hospitalization and, absence of large and unaesthetic scars. The importance of maternal and fetal welfare thus requires a careful evaluation of several factors that, varying from case to case, lead the authors to choose the most appropriate management.

Plastic and reconstructive uterus operations by minimally invasive surgery? A review on myomectomy

BACKGROUND

Plastic and reconstructive uterus operations are performed in congenital uterine anomalies or benign uterine conditions. Congenital uterine anomalies are relatively rare diseases with various approaches for surgical treatment. Therefore, to address the question of the usefulness of a minimally invasive approach in plastic uterus operations, the most common uterine condition which requires reconstructive surgery, namely myomectomy, is discussed.

METHOD

Searches were conducted in PubMed and The Cochrane Library to identify relevant literature.

FINDINGS

Compared with myomectomy by laparotomy and minilaparotomy, laparoscopic myomectomy is associated with improved short-term outcomes. Laparoscopy is further associated with less adhesion formation. Pregnancy rates after myomectomy in symptomatic patients might be higher after laparoscopy than after laparotomy. Although uterine ruptures following laparoscopic myomectomy are described in the literature, it seems to be a rare event. Concerning the recurrence, there is evidence that rates are similar after laparoscopy and laparotomy.

CONCLUSION

Myomectomy by laparoscopy has several advantages over abdominal myomectomy (by conventional laparotomy and minilaparotomy) and should be the standard procedure. Despite the advantages of laparoscopy, abdominal myomectomy is still a frequently performed procedure. Lack of training in advanced laparoscopic procedures hampers the wide-spread use of laparoscopic myomectomy. Due to the advantages of laparoscopic surgery, efforts should be made to implement this procedure into daily practice. To provide the best care, physicians should offer patients the opportunity of a laparoscopic treatment of myomas.