New classification system of radical hysterectomy: Emphasis on a three-dimensional anatomic template for parametrial resection

Management of Bulky Tumors in Cervical Cancer: Limits of the Surgical Approach

The standard treatment for cervical tumors larger than 4 cm, known as bulky tumors, currently involves concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by vaginal brachytherapy. However, radical surgery is an alternative option in some cases, particularly for those in which a combination of risk factors is not anticipated. Recent studies show that neoadjuvant chemotherapy may help reduce tumor size in these bulky tumors, enabling subsequent surgical intervention reducing the adverse effects derived from radiotherapy. Evidence about fertility sparing surgery in patients with bulky tumors is limited, although some retrospective studies reported good oncological outcomes when adequate tumor reduction is achieved through neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Moreover, the administration of adjuvant radiotherapy after radical surgery in patients with tumor sizes ≥ 4 cm in the final pathological report, combined with other intermediate risk factors for recurrence, remains a topic of debate. Current evidence indicates no significant differences in overall survival or disease-free survival between follow-up alone and the use of adjuvant radiotherapy in these cases, although further research is needed to refine treatment strategies for these patients. This narrative review aims to summarize the available evidence on the comprehensive management of bulky cervical tumors, addressing relevant issues and controversies in the field.

Pelvic neural injuries and acute voiding changes in rat models of radical hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

To establish experimental models of radical hysterectomy based on Querleu-Morrow classification, and clarify the quantitative evaluation of pelvic neural injuries and acute voiding changes postoperatively.

METHODS

Female Sprague Dawley rats were randomized and received sham operation, type A, B1, C1 and C2 radical hysterectomies (as the injury gradually increased), respectively. The excised specimens were collected for hematoxylin and eosin staining and Pgp9.5 (pan-neuronal marker) immunohistochemistry to evaluate the facial and neural resection of paracervix. At 21 days after operation, 5 rats in each group were used for urine spot test, awake cystometry and leak point pressure test, and the other 5 ones were used for hematoxylin and eosin staining of bladder and pelvic neural plane, and Masson's trichrome staining of bladder.

RESULTS

Paracervical Pgp9.5 immunohistochemistry revealed that the resected neural area in C2 group was significantly larger than that in type A, B1, and C1 groups. Compared with type A and B1 groups, the excised paracervical facial area was significant higher in type C1 and C2 groups. The occurrence of urinary retention was 0%, 10%, 40% and 100% in type A, B1, C1 and C2 groups, respectively, which was further confirmed by average residual volume. The incidence of neurogenic bladder and its severity gradually increased from type A to type C2 groups, consistent with the findings of leakage point pressure, bladder size, bladder weight, pathological changes and collagen deposition. Neuropathological evaluation revealed neural injuries involved the main components of pelvic neural plane.

CONCLUSION

The novel rat models of radical hysterectomy based on Querleu-Morrow classification revealed the structural and functional changes of voiding after operation, which reflected the situation in humans.

Feasibility of the "cuff-sleeve" suture method in improving the uterine blood supply after radical trachelectomy: A retrospective analysis

Objective

To explore the feasibility of the "cuff-sleeve" suture method in improving the uterine blood supply after radical trachelectomy (RT).

Study design

Patients in the "cuff-sleeve" (n = 25) and traditional group (n = 10) underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) to evaluate the residual uterine blood supply pattern after the surgery, and the preoperative group patients (n = 20) underwent CTA before the procedure.

Results

The uteri of the 20 patients in the preoperative group were all supplied by bilateral uterine arteries of average diameter, 2.25 ± 0.35 mm. The uterine artery-supplying, hybrid supplying, and ovarian artery-supplying patterns accounted for 40 %, 36 %, and 24 % in the "cuff-sleeve" group and 20 %, 50 %, and 30 %, respectively, in the traditional group. The average diameter of the uterine arteries among the uterine artery-supplying pattern in the "cuff-sleeve" group (1.98 ± 0.36 mm) was more extensive than that in the traditional group (1.73 ± 0.15 mm) (p = 0.049). As also, the ovarian artery diameter of the hybrid supplying pattern in the "cuff-sleeve" group (1.65 ± 0.25 mm) was significantly larger than that in the traditional group (1.50 ± 0.35 mm) (p = 0.010). Additionally, while the pregnancy rate in the "cuff-sleeve" group (50.0 %) was higher than that in the traditional group (25.0 %), this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The "cuff-sleeve" suture method was associated with increased diameter of the uterine and ovarian vessels and may be a feasible method to improve the uterine blood supply and pregnancy rate after radical trachelectomy. It still warrants further evaluation for both fertility and oncologic outcomes.

Revisiting Querleu-Morrow Radical Hysterectomy: How to Apply the Anatomy of Parametrium and Pelvic Autonomic Nerves to Cervical Cancer Surgery?

In 2008, Querleu and Morrow proposed a novel classification of radical hysterectomy, which was quickly accepted by the professional oncogynecological community. The Querleu and Morrow (Q-M) classification of radical hysterectomy has provided a unique opportunity for uniform surgical and anatomical terminology. The classification offers detailed explanations of anatomical landmarks and resection margins for the three parametria of the uterus. However, there are still some disagreements and misconceptions regarding the terminology and anatomical landmarks of the Q-M classification. This article aims to highlight the surgical anatomy of all radical hysterectomy types within the Q-M classification. It discusses and illustrates the importance of anatomical landmarks for defining resection margins of the Q-M classification and reviews the differences between Q-M and other radical hysterectomy classifications. Additionally, we propose an update of the Q-M classification, which includes the implementation of parauterine lymphovascular tissue, paracervical lymph node dissection, and Selective-Systematic Nerve-Sparing type C2 radical hysterectomy. Type D was modified according to current guidelines for the management of patients with cervical cancer. The detailed explanation of the surgical anatomy of radical hysterectomy and the proposed update may help achieve surgical harmonization and precise standardization among oncogynecologists, which can further facilitate accurate and comparable results of multi-institutional surgical clinical trials.

Perineural Invasion in Cervical Cancer: A Hidden Trail for Metastasis

Perineural invasion (PNI), the neoplastic invasion of nerves, is an often overlooked pathological phenomenon in cervical cancer that is associated with poor clinical outcomes. The occurrence of PNI in cervical cancer patients has limited the promotion of Type C1 surgery. Preoperative prediction of the PNI can help identify suitable patients for Type C1 surgery. However, there is a lack of appropriate preoperative diagnostic methods for PNI, and its pathogenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we dissect the neural innervation of the cervix, analyze the molecular mechanisms underlying the occurrence of PNI, and explore suitable preoperative diagnostic methods for PNI to advance the identification and treatment of this ominous cancer phenotype.

Efficacy and safety analysis of non-radical surgery for early-stage cervical cancer (IA2 ~ IB1): a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

Radical hysterectomy has long been considered as the standard surgical treatment for early-stage cervical cancer (IA2 to IB1 stages), according to the 2009 International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology. This study aims to conduct an in-depth evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of non-radical surgery as an alternative treatment for patients with early-stage cervical cancer.

Methods

A systematic search of online databases including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted to identify relevant literature on surgical treatment options for early-stage cervical cancer. Keywords such as "cervical cancer," "conservative surgery," "early-stage," "less radical surgery," and "simple hysterectomy" were used. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.0 software, which included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies.

Results

This meta-analysis included 8 eligible articles covering 9 studies, with 3,950 patients in the simple hysterectomy (SH) surgery group and 6,271 patients in the radical hysterectomy (RH) surgery group. The results indicate that there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the Overall Survival (OS) (HR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.86-1.27, p = 0.671; Heterogeneity: I2 = 33.8%, p = 0.170), Disease Free Survival (DFS) (HR = 1.39, 95% CI: 0.59-3.29, p = 0.456; Heterogeneity: I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.374), Cervical Cancer Specific Survival (CCSS) (HR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.80-1.54, p = 0.519; Heterogeneity: I2 = 11.9%, p = 0.287) and recurrence rate (RR = 1.16, 95% CI: 0.69-1.97, p = 0.583; Heterogeneity: I = 0.0%, p = 0.488). However, the mortality rate (RR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.10-1.67, p = 0.006; Heterogeneity: I2 = 35.4%, p = 0.158) and the rate of postoperative adjuvant therapy (RR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.16-2.19, p = 0.004; Heterogeneity: I2 = 92.7%, p < 0.10) were higher in the SH group compared to those in the RH group. On the other hand, the incidence of surgical complications was lower in the SH group (RR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.21-0.59, p = 0.004; Heterogeneity: I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.857) than that in the RH group. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients in the IB1 stage SH group had a significantly higher mortality rate compared to those in the RH group (RR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.23-2.07, p < 0.001; Heterogeneity: I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.332). However, there was no significant difference in mortality rates between the two groups for patients at stage IA2 (RR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.54-1.30, p = 0.428; Heterogeneity: I2 = 26.8%, p = 0.243). In the subgroups positive for Lymphovascular Space Invasion (LVSI), patients in the SH group had a significantly higher mortality rate than those in the RH group (RR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.09-1.65, p = 0.005; Heterogeneity: I2 = 41.6%, p = 0.128). However, in the LVSI-negative subgroups, there was no significant difference in mortality rates between the two groups (RR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.01-8.04, p = 0.499).

Conclusion

For patients with early-stage cervical cancer patients at IA2 without LVSI involvement, comparisons between the two groups in terms of OS, DFS, CCSS, recurrence rate, and mortality rates revealed no statistically significant differences, indicating that the choice of surgical approach does not affect long-term survival outcomes for this specific patient group. For patients at IB1 and IA2 stages with LVSI involvement, while there were no significant differences between the two groups in OS, DFS, CSS, and recurrence rate, a significant increase in mortality rates was observed in the SH group. This indicates a potential elevated risk of mortality associated with SH in this subset of patients. Notably, the incidence of surgical complications was significantly lower in the SH group compared to the RH group, highlighting the safety profile of SH in this context. Significantly, among patients in the SH group, an increase in the rate of postoperative adjuvant treatment is associated with a higher occurrence of treatment-related complications. To facilitate more precise patient selection for conservative surgical management, future prospective studies of superior quality are imperative to gain deeper insights into this matter.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO (CRD42023451609: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023451609).

International expert consensus on the surgical anatomic classification of radical hysterectomies

BACKGROUND

The anatomic descriptions and extents of radical hysterectomy often vary across the literature and operative reports worldwide. The same nomenclature is often used to describe varying procedures, and different nomenclature is often used to describe the same procedure despite the availability of guideline and classification systems. This makes it difficult to interpret retrospective surgical reports, analyze surgical databases, understand technique descriptions, and interpret the findings of surgical studies.

OBJECTIVE

In collaboration with international experts in gynecologic oncology, the purpose of this study was to establish a consensus in defining and interpreting the 2017 updated Querleu-Morrow classification of radical hysterectomies.

STUDY DESIGN

The anatomic templates of type A, B, and C radical hysterectomy were documented through a set of 13 images taken at the time of cadaver dissection. An online survey related to radical hysterectomy nomenclature and definitions or descriptions of the associated procedures was circulated among international experts in radical hysterectomy. A 3-step modified Delphi method was used to establish consensus. Image legends were amended according to the experts' responses and then redistributed as part of a second round of the survey. Consensus was defined by a yes response to a question concerning a specific image. Anyone who responded no to a question was welcome to comment and provide justification. A final set of images and legends were compiled to anatomically illustrate and define or describe a lateral, ventral, and dorsal excision of the tissues surrounding the cervix.

RESULTS

In total, there were 13 questions to review, and 29 experts completed the whole process. Final consensus exceeded 90% for all questions except 1 (86%). Questions with relatively lower consensus rates concerned the definitions of types A and B2 radical hysterectomy, which were the main innovations of the 2017 updated version of the 2008 Querleu-Morrow classification. Questions with the highest consensus rates concerned the definitions of types B1 and C, which are the most frequently performed radical hysterectomies.

CONCLUSION

The 2017 version of the Querleu-Morrow classification proved to be a robust tool for defining and describing the extent of radical hysterectomies with a high level of consensus among international experts in gynecologic oncology. Knowledge and implementation of the exact definitions of hysterectomy radicality are imperative in clinical practice and clinical research.

Surgical Anatomy and Dissection of the Hypogastric Plexus in Nerve-Sparing Radical Hysterectomy

Radical hysterectomy is a central surgical procedure in gynecological oncology. A nerve-sparing approach is essential to minimize complications from iatrogenic injury to the pelvic nerves, resulting in postoperative urinary, anorectal, and sexual dysfunction. The hypogastric plexus (HP), a complex network of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, plays a critical role in pelvic autonomic innervation. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the surgical anatomy of the HP and provides a step-by-step description of HP dissection, with a particular emphasis on preserving the bladder nerve branches of the inferior HP. A thorough understanding and mastery of the anatomical and surgical nuances of HP dissection are crucial for optimizing outcomes in nerve-sparing gynecologic-oncological procedures.

A new membrane anatomy-oriented classification of radical surgery for rectal cancer

For patients with different clinical stages of rectal cancer, tailored surgery is urgently needed. Over the past 10 years, our team has conducted numerous anatomical studies and proposed the "four fasciae and three spaces" theory to guide rectal cancer surgery. Enlightened by the anatomical basis of the radical hysterectomy classification system of Querleu and Morrow, we proposed a new classification system of radical surgery for rectal cancer based on membrane anatomy. This system categorizes the surgery into four types (A-D) and incorporates corresponding subtypes based on the preservation of the autonomic nerve. Our surgical classification unifies the pelvic membrane anatomical terminology, validates the feasibility of classifying rectal cancer surgery using the theory of "four fasciae and three spaces," and lays the theoretical groundwork for the future development of unified and standardized classification of radical pelvic tumor surgery.

Radical Hysterectomy or Total Mesometrial Resection-Two Anatomical Concepts for Surgical Treatment of Cancer of the Uterine Cervix

A radical hysterectomy is the standard method of surgical treatment for patients with early-stage cancer of the uterine cervix. It was first introduced more than 100 years ago. Since then, various and many different radical procedures, which diverge in terms of radicality, have been described. Inconsistencies are clearly seen in practical anatomy, which were defined as surgically created artifacts. Moreover, the disparity of the procedure is most notable regarding the terminology of pelvic connective tissues and spaces. Despite these controversies, the procedure is widely performed and implemented in the majority of guidelines for the surgical treatment of cancer of the uterine cervix. However, a different and unique concept of surgical treatment of cervical cancer has been reported. It is based on ontogenetic anatomy and maps any tissue in the mature organism according to its embryologic development. The clinical implementation of this theory in the context of early cervical cancer is total mesometrial resection. The present article aims to describe and compare the anatomical and surgical basics of a radical hysterectomy (type C1/C2) and total mesometrial resection. Discrepancies regarding the terminology, resection lines, and surgical planes of both procedures are highlighted in detail. The surgical anatomy of the pelvic autonomic nerves and its surgical dissection is also delineated. This is the first article that compares the discrepancy of classic anatomy and ontogenic anatomy regarding surgical treatment of cancer of the uterine cervix. Clinical data, oncological outcome, and neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment regarding both procedures are not the topic of the present article.

Radical Hysterectomy in Early-Stage Cervical Cancer: Abandoning the One-Fits-All Concept

Two pillars in modern oncology are treatment personalization and the reduction in treatment-related morbidity. For decades, the one-fits-all concept of radical hysterectomy has been the cornerstone of early-stage cervical cancer surgical treatment. However, no agreement exists about the prevalent method of parametrial invasion, and the literature is conflicting regarding the extent of parametrectomy needed to achieve adequate surgical radicality. Therefore, authors started investigating if less radical surgery was feasible and oncologically safe in these patients. Two historical randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared classical radical hysterectomy (RH) to modified RH and simple hysterectomy. Less radical surgery showed a drastic reduction in morbidity without jeopardizing oncological outcomes. However, given the high frequency of adjuvant radiotherapy, the real impact of reduced radicality could not be estimated. Subsequently, several retrospective studies investigated the chance of tailoring parametrectomy according to the tumor's characteristics. Parametrial involvement was shown to be negligible in early-stage low-risk cervical cancer. An observational prospective study and a phase II exploratory RCT have recently confirmed the feasibility and safety of simple hysterectomy in this subgroup of patients. The preliminary results of a large prospective RCT comparing simple vs. radical surgery for early-stage low-risk cervical cancer show strong probability of giving a final answer on this topic.

New classification system for radical rectal cancer surgery based on membrane anatomy

BACKGROUND

Total mesorectal excision along the "holy plane" is the only radical surgery for rectal cancer, regardless of tumor size, localization or even tumor stage. However, according to the concept of membrane anatomy, multiple fascial spaces around the rectum could be used as the surgical plane to achieve radical resection.

AIM

To propose a new membrane anatomical and staging-oriented classification system for tailoring the radicality during rectal cancer surgery.

METHODS

A three-dimensional template of the member anatomy of the pelvis was established, and the existing anatomical nomenclatures were clarified by cadaveric dissection study and laparoscopic surgical observation. Then, we suggested a new and simple classification system for rectal cancer surgery. For simplification, the classification was based only on the lateral extent of resection.

RESULTS

The fascia propria of the rectum, urogenital fascia, vesicohypogastric fascia and parietal fascia lie side by side around the rectum and form three spaces (medial, middle and lateral), and blood vessels and nerves are precisely positioned in the fascia or space. Three types of radical surgery for rectal cancer are described, as are a few subtypes that consider nerve preservation. The surgical planes of the proposed radical surgeries (types A, B and C) correspond exactly to the medial, middle, and lateral spaces, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Three types of radical surgery can be precisely defined based on membrane anatomy, including nerve-sparing procedures. Our classification system may offer an optimal tool for tailoring rectal cancer surgery.

Anatomical location of the surgically identifiable bladder branch of the inferior hypogastric plexus for nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy

Objective

We aimed to demonstrate the entire structure of the inferior hypogastric plexus in the female pelvis focusing on surgically identifiable nerve bundles to the urinary bladder.

Methods

Surgical videos of transabdominal nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy for 10 patients with cervical cancer at International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO 2009) stage IB1-IIB were retrospectively analyzed. The paracervical tissue dorsal to the ureter was separated into the lateral component (dorsal layer of the vesicouterine ligament) and medial component (paracolpium) using Okabayashi's technique. Any bundle-like structures in the paracervical area were isolated and divided using cold scissors, and each cut edge was inspected to determine whether the bundle was a blood vessel or a nerve.

Results

In all cases, the surgically identifiable nerve bundle of the bladder branch was identified on the rectovaginal ligament running parallel and dorsal to the vaginal vein of the paracolpium. The bladder branch was revealed only after complete division of the vesical veins in the dorsal layer of the vesicouterine ligament where no definitive nerve bundles were observed. The bladder branch was derived laterally from the pelvic splanchnic nerve and medially from the inferior hypogastric plexus.

Conclusions

The surgical identification of the nerve bundle of the bladder branch is essential for a safe and secure nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy. The preservation of the surgically identifiable bladder branch from the pelvic splanchnic nerve as well as from the inferior hypogastric plexus can provide satisfactory postoperative voiding function.

Avascular spaces in radical hysterectomy

The most common cancer in women worldwide is cervical cancer. For early-stage disease the standard treatment is radical hysterectomy. One of the main issues faced by surgeons performing a radical hysterectomy is the wide variation in the terminology used to define the procedure and the nomenclature used to describe the anatomical spaces critical to the success of the surgery. The aim of this review was to synthesize currently used anatomical landmarks with relation to surgical avascular spaces for the performance of radical hysterectomy.A computer-based comprehensive review of the MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Embase, and SciSearch databases, as well as National Comprehensive Cancer Network and European Society of Gynaecological Oncology guidelines, was performed. With all relevant data collected, and previous anatomical studies during surgeries and on cadavers performed by authors, a manuscript of the definition of avascular spaces, methods of dissection, and anatomical limits was prepared.Avascular pelvic spaces developed during radical hysterectomy, such as the paravesical, pararectal, ureter tunnel, and paravaginal, were considered and included in the manuscript. A clear definition of avascular spaces may aid a better understanding of the anatomical aspects of the radical hysterectomy. It could improve surgeon knowledge of the structures that need to be preserved and those that need to be resected during a radical hysterectomy. Additionally, the detailed exposure of anatomical boundaries will facilitate the appropriate tailored radicality depending on the risk factors of the disease. Moreover, knowledge of these spaces could make pelvic surgery safer and easier for other types of gynecological and non-gynecological procedures.

Two lateral parametria in radical hysterectomy: History and outcome

AIM

Some anatomic concepts for 20th century radical hysterectomy (RH) did not conform to progress in surgical technique. The purpose of this article was to put forward a new practical anatomy and application to surgical procedures.

METHODS

Following a historical review the author reexamined his surgical procedures from 1980 to 2005 on 131 patients with cervical cancer. One hundred and eight of these patients had undergone RH and 23 super RH plus neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 7 had RH combined with a total mesorectal excision because of infiltration into the lateral rectal ligament due to rectal cancer. Also reviewed were data on surgical procedures and anatomy following a series of mock RH on 26 donated female cadavers.

RESULTS

It was found that the cardinal ligament and transverse cervical ligament must be distinguished. The vesicohypogastric fascia, transverse cervical ligament, and lateral rectal ligament formed a continuum with their relationship to the organs being perpendicular. The surgical technique for an RH is total excision of the transverse cervical ligament, whereas the one for a semi-RH is partial or total excision of the deep uterine vein. The paracolpium is the caudal extension of the cardinal ligament, not the medial extension of the superior fascia of pelvic diaphragm.

CONCLUSION

New practical anatomy and surgical technique were established through recognition of morphology of the living body being transformed by surgical maneuvers.

Evaluation of individualized para-tumor resection of cervical cancer patients based on three-dimensional reconstruction

Objective

To discuss the possibility of individualizing the para-tumor resection range (PRR) in cervical cancer patients based on three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction.

Methods

We retrospectively included 374 cervical cancer patients who underwent abdominal radical hysterectomy. Preoperative computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data sets were collected to get 3D models. Postoperative specimens were measured to evaluate surgical scope. Oncological outcomes of patients with different depths of stromal invasion and PRR were compared.

Results

A PRR of 32.35 mm was found to be the cut-off point. For the 171 patients with stromal invasion <1/2 depth, patients with a PRR over 32.35 mm had a lower risk of death and higher 5-year overall survival (OS) than that in the ≤32.35 mm group (HR = 0.110, 95% CI: 0.012-0.988, P = 0.046; OS: 98.8% vs. 86.8%, P = 0.012). No significant differences were found in 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) between the two groups (92.2% vs. 84.4%, P = 0.115). For the 178 cases with stromal invasion ≥1/2 depth, no significant differences were found in 5-year OS and DFS between groups (≤32.35 mm group vs. >32.35 mm group, OS: 71.0% vs. 83.0%, P = 0.504; DFS: 65.7% vs. 80.4%, P = 0.305).

Conclusion

In patients with stromal invasion <1/2 depth, the PRR should reach 32.35 mm to get more survival benefit and in patients with stromal invasion ≥1/2 depth, the PRR should reach 32.35 mm at least to avoid worse prognosis. Cervical cancer patients with different depths of stromal invasion may receive tailoring resection of the cardinal ligament.

Approach to Radical Hysterectomy for Cervical Cancer in Pregnancy: Surgical Pathway and Ethical Considerations

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer is currently the fourth most common cancer in women and in the poorest countries this neoplasia still represents a widespread and potentially lethal disease. We present a rare case of cervical cancer in pregnancy, analyzing the historical changes behind the procedure of radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer and discussing variations in surgical techniques and anatomical definitions that have since been proposed.

RESULTS

We present the case of a 33-year-old patient who attended with vaginal bleeding in the second trimester of pregnancy. Examination revealed an abnormal looking cervix, with investigations concluding stage IIb squamous cell carcinoma. Following extensive discussion regarding management options, the patient went on to have a peripartum foetocidal type III nerve sparing radical Wertheim hysterectomy at 18 weeks gestation with conservation and transposition of the ovaries above the level of the pelvic brim. The patient recovered well without significant morbidity and received further input from fertility and psychological medical teams in addition to adjuvant treatment within the department of clinical oncology.

DISCUSSION

This case represents several elements of great interest and learning. Notably, we highlight this both due to the surgical challenges that a gravid uterus presents in the execution of a radical hysterectomy; and regarding the compassionate care demonstrated by the team - not only in supporting the patient and her partner in a period of profound turmoil in terms of the management of their cancer diagnosis and unborn child, but also regarding the uncertainty in consideration of the oncological and fertility related outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This manuscript adds to the growing literature on the appropriate use of radical surgery for cervical cancer, more specifically during pregnancy and in consideration of such ethical dilemma, where management guidelines do not exist to aid clinicians further in their provision of treatment.

Can laparoscopic nerve-sparing ultra-radical hysterectomy play a role in locally advanced cervical cancer? A single-center retrospective study

Background and objectives

The objective of this study is to investigate the outcomes of concurrent platinum-based chemoradiation therapy (CCRT), laparoscopic nerve-sparing ultra-radical hysterectomy (LNSURH), and open radical hysterectomy (ORH) on patients with locally advanced cervical carcinoma (LACC).

Methods

A single-center retrospective study was conducted on LACC patients who received CCRT, ORH, or LNSURH from January 2011 to December 2019. Data on age, tumor size, overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and early and late morbidities were collected. After 24 months of treatment, patients were asked a series of questions about their urinary, bowel, and sexual activities. Early morbidities were defined as those occurring during or within a month of treatment, whereas late morbidities and complications were defined as those occurring a month after treatment. The postoperative complications were classified with reference to the Clavien–Dindo classification (CD) system.

Results

The Kaplan–Meier curves revealed no significant differences in OS and DFS among the three groups (P = 0.106 for DFS and P = 0.190 for OS). The rates of early complications in the CCRT group were comparable with those in the operated groups (P = 0.46). However, late complications were significantly lower in the ORH and LNSURH groups relative to those in the CCRT group. The scores of urinary and bowel functions were restored to the pretreatment state, although the sexual function scores were not satisfactory.

Conclusions

The treatments of CCRT, ORH, and LNSURH can be considered options for patients with LACC, as their OS and DFS showed no significant difference. In addition, LNSURH exhibited a lower incidence of late complications and high sexual function scores.

Impact of timing of urinary catheter removal on voiding dysfunction after radical hysterectomy for early cervical cancer

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether the timing of postoperative urinary catheter removal is associated with voiding dysfunction after radical hysterectomy for early cervical cancer within contemporary surgical practice.

METHODS

We performed an institutional retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent Piver type II-III open or minimally invasive radical hysterectomy for early-stage cervical cancer (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2009 stage IA1 with lymphovascular invasion to stage IIA) between January 2006 and December 2019. We compared voiding dysfunction (inability to spontaneously void with a post-void residual <100 mL after catheter removal) and outcomes based on postoperative timing of urinary catheter removal using univariate and multivariate logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Among 234 patients, 86 (36.8%) underwent open surgery and 112 (47.9%) used enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways. 29 (12.4%) patients had urinary catheter removal between 1-5 days postoperatively (group 1), 141 (60.3%) between 6-10 days (group 2), and 64 (27.3%) between 11-15 days (group 3). The overall rate of voiding dysfunction was 11.5%, with no difference between group 1 (17.2%), group 2 (11.3%), and group 3 (9.4%) (p=0.54). Group 1 had a significantly shorter time from surgery to spontaneous voiding (4 days, IQR 3-5 days) compared with group 2 (8 days, IQR 7-10 days) and group 3 (13 days, IQR 11-15 days) (p<0.01). There was no difference in hospital length of stay, urinary tract infection, or re-admission due to a genitourinary complication within 60 days of surgery based on timing of catheter removal. On multivariate analysis, the odds of voiding dysfunction did not differ by tumor size, type of hysterectomy, cancer stage, surgical approach, ERAS timeframe, or timing of catheter removal group.

CONCLUSION

There was no difference in voiding dysfunction or postoperative genitourinary complications based on timing of urinary catheter removal after radical hysterectomy. Early catheter removal should be considered in this population.

Stepwise Treatment for Abnormally Invasive Placenta with Placenta Previa

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorder often causes a large amount of intraoperative bleeding in a short period which makes maternal circulation unstable and threatens life. As a countermeasure, two-stage surgery combined with selective uterine arterial embolization (UAE), named “stepwise treatment” was introduced in 2003. At a cesarean section (CS), only the baby is delivered and the placenta is left in situ. The transcatheter angiographic UAE is performed on the operation day, followed by the total hysterectomy on 5 to 7 days after CS. The difficulty in the operative procedures for hysterectomy and the amount of bleeding can be reduced by the added effect of the blood flow interruption by UAE and the uterine involution. Although there are not many indication cases, this is the prudent operation that should be considered for the most severe PAS case such as total placenta increta/percreta with placenta previa.

In this article, the practical procedures and tips of stepwise treatment are described.

Total mesometrial resection (TMMR) for cervical cancer FIGO IB-IIA: first results from the multicentric TMMR register study

Available data on total mesometrial resection and therapeutic lymphadenectomy (TMMR+tLNE) for the treatment of cervical cancer show excellent locoregional control rates without adjuvant chemoradiation. In 116 patients with cervical cancer stages IB–IIA the overall recurrence rate was 7.8% in a median follow-up time of 24 months. Locoregional recurrences occurred in 6.0% of patients.

Objective

The surgical concept of total mesometrial resection (TMMR) and therapeutic lymphadenectomy (tLNE) for the treatment of early cervical cancer is based on the ontogenetic cancer field model. Unicentric data show excellent locoregional control rates without adjuvant chemoradiation. However, there are so far no prospective, multicentric data supporting the method.

Methods

The multicentric TMMR register study was designed to answer the question whether the concept of TMMR+tLNE could be transferred to different centers and surgeons without compromising the outstanding oncologic results described in a unicentric setting.

Results

In 116 patients with cervical cancer stages IB–IIA, (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics [FIGO] 2018), who underwent TMMR/tLNE, 25.0% were lymph node-positive. pT stages were pT1a in 3 patients (2.6%), pT1b1 in 82 (70.7%), pT1b2 in 18 (15.5%), pT2a in 4 (3.5%) and pT2b in 9 (7.8%). The overall recurrence rate was 7.8% in a median follow-up time of 24 months (6–80). Locoregional recurrences occurred in 6.0% of patients. One patient (0.9%) died from the disease during the observation period.

Conclusion

These are the first multicentric data on the surgical concept of TMMR and tLNE for the treatment of cervical cancer FIGO IB–IIA. We were able to reproduce the excellent oncologic data described for the method albeit with a relatively short median observation time. A randomized controlled trial seems warranted to definitely establish TMMR+tLNE as the method of choice for the treatment of early cervical cancer.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01819077

The Surgeon's Proficiency Affected Survival Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Early-Stage Cervical Cancer: A Retrospective Study of 851 Patients

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes of patients with early-stage cervical cancer who underwent minimally invasive surgery (MIS) by surgeons in different phases and evaluate whether the proficiency of surgeons affects the survival outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A total of 851 patients with early-stage cervical cancer who underwent radical hysterectomy between January 2008 and June 2018 (every year from January to June) at a tertiary hospital were retrospectively analyzed. We categorized patients into four phases according to their sequence (phase one, 1-10 cases; phase two: 11-20 cases; phase three: 21-30 cases; phase four: > 30 cases). Demographics and clinical and pathological data were collected and analyzed.

Results

There were no statistical differences between the open surgery and MIS groups regarding three- and five-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). The OS and DFS of patients in the MIS group in phase one were significantly lower than those in later phases and those in the open surgery group after adjustment (OS, P = 0.009; HR, 2.896; 95%CI, 1.303-6.435; DFS, P = 0.009; HR, 2.712; 95%CI, 1.289-5.706). Survival outcomes were not statistically significant when comparing different surgeons.

Conclusion

The phase one cases of MIS had lower OS and DFS than those in later phases and those in the open surgery group. Thus, we suggest that the proficiency of surgeons is associated with survival outcomes of MIS. Favorable outcomes can be obtained after a certain number of MIS cases.

Fertility-sparing surgery for women with stage I cervical cancer of 4 cm or larger: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To investigate current evidence on oncological, fertility and obstetric outcomes of patients with stage I cervical cancer of 4 cm or larger undergoing fertility-sparing surgery (FSS).

METHODS

Systematic review of studies including women affected by stage I cervical cancer ≥4 cm who underwent FSS. Main outcome measures: disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), pregnancy rate, live birth rate, premature delivery rate.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies met all eligibility criteria for this systematic review, involving 48 patients affected by cervical cancer ≥4 cm who completed FSS. Three patients (6.3%) experienced a recurrence and one of them (2.1%) died of disease. The 5-year DFS rate was 92.4%. The 5-year OS rate was 97.6%. A significantly shorter 5-year DFS was reported for high-risk patients (G3, non-squamous histotype, diameter ≥5 cm) compared with low-risk (74.7% vs. 100%; log-rank test, p=0.024). Data about fertility outcomes were available for 12 patients. Five patients out of 12 (41.7%) attempted to conceive with an estimated pregnancy rate of 80%, a live birth rate of 83.3% and a premature delivery rate of 20%.

CONCLUSION

Women with high tumor grade, aggressive histology and tumor size ≥5 cm have a higher risk of recurrence. Oncologic outcomes are encouraging among low-risk patients; however, the lack of high-quality studies makes it difficult to draw any firm conclusions. Prospective multicentric clinical trials with a proper selection of inclusion/exclusion criteria should be conducted in women with low-risk factors, strong desire to preserve their fertility and high likelihood to conceive.

A New Anatomic and Staging-Oriented Classification of Radical Hysterectomy

Simple Summary

The main deficits of the available classifications of radical hysterectomy are the facts that they are based only on the lateral extension of resection, do not depend on the precise anatomy of parametrium and paracolpium and do not correlate with the tumour stage, size or infiltration in the vagina. This new suggested classification depends on the 3-dimentional concept of parametrium and paracolpium and the comprehensive description of the anatomy of parametrium, paracolpium and the pelvic autonomic nerve system. Each type in this classification tailored to the tumour stage according to FIGO- classification from 2018, taking into account the tumour size, localization and infiltration in the vaginal vault, which may make it the most suitable tool for planning and tailoring the surgery of radical hysterectomy.

Abstract

The current understanding of radical hysterectomy more is centered on the uterus and little is being discussed about the resection of the vaginal cuff and the paracolpium as an essential part of this procedure. This is because that the current classifications of radical hysterectomy are based only on the lateral extent of resection. This way is easier to be understood but does not reflect the anatomical and surgical conception of radical hysterectomy and the three-dimensional ways of tumour spreading, neither meet the need of adjusting the radicality according to the different stages of FIGO classification, which depends—at least in the early stages—on the tumour volume and the infiltration in the vagina (but not on the directly spread in the parametrium). The new classification presented in this paper does not base anymore on the lateral extent of resection only but too on the depth of resection in the small pelvic and the extent of the resected vaginal vault without or with its three-dimensional paracolpium. This classification takes into account the tumour size, stage, localization and infiltration in the vaginal vault and may offer the optimal tool to adjust and tailor the surgery according to these important variables.

Comparing survival outcomes for cervical cancer based on the 2014 and 2018 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics staging systems

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) cervical cancer staging system was modified in 2018, introducing new stage IB subdivisions and new lymph node status considerations in stage IIIC. We compared cervical cancer survival outcomes according to the 2014 and 2018 FIGO staging systems. We selected 10% of cervical cancer cases (2010–2015) from the Korean national cancer registry (2010–2015) through a systematic sampling method. We collected information using a collaborative stage data collection system and evaluated the results according to both staging systems. The log-rank test was used to analyze overall survival differences. No significant difference in survival was observed between 2018 subdivisions IB1/IB2/IB3 (P = 0.069), whereas a considerable difference was observed between these subdivisions according to histological subtypes. In the 2018 FIGO staging system, stage IIIC had better survival than stage IIIA/IIIB (P < 0.001). We observed considerable heterogeneity in 2018 stage IIIC related to the corresponding stages of the 2014 staging system (stages IA1–IIIB). The size of the primary cervical mass was related to survival (P < 0.001). In conclusion, using lymph node status to define stage IIIC captured a broad range of prognoses. The inclusion of primary tumor size considerations may improve the staging accuracy of advanced cervical cancer.

Twenty-first century radical hysterectomy - Journey from descriptive to practical anatomy

The resulting characteristics of 20th century radical hysterectomy demonstrated that, in the quest for a radical cure, its surgical procedure became extended. The consequences of this were increased difficulty in the procedure with risk of massive hemorrhage and vesical and anorectal dysfunction. Moreover, the cardinal and transverse cervical ligaments, which were individually recognized during the 19th century, became regarded as synonymous during the middle of the 20th century. Because of this, traditional surgical procedures such as Wertheim and Latzko's were not precisely followed, further delaying the advent of a new idea(s) for radical hysterectomy. The desired goal for 21st radical hysterectomy should be an anatomy and operative procedure that clarify and rectify these aforementioned negative surgical outcomes. In 1998, International Federation of Associations of Anatomists (IFAA) introduced clinical terminology in Terminologia Anatomica. With the IFAA's decision in mind, the author focused, out of the many theories and surgical procedures for cancer of the uterine cervix, on three noteworthy proposals. From these proposals, the possibility for a new idea(s) on theories and surgical procedures was explored through the fusion of anatomy and clinical practice. The idea for a new procedure(s) required a morphological distinction between description in textbooks and intraoperative findings, that is: a) a traditional anatomy that was based on gross/systemic anatomy; and b) an anatomy in which part of an artifact resulting from applying an artificial maneuver to a living body could be regarded as surgical anatomy. The author has tentatively called the former descriptive anatomy and the latter practical anatomy. The development of this practical anatomy led to the idea for and practical application of a less-extirpating and nerve-sparing operation, which improved patient's outcome. Radical hysterectomy of the 21st century should be conducted following this new anatomy that is concentrated around practical anatomy and independent from descriptive anatomy.

Laparoscopic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy without uterine manipulator for cervical cancer stage IB: description of the technique, our experience and results after the era of LACC trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to evaluate surgical data and oncological outcome of laparoscopic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy without uterine manipulator for cervical cancer stage IB, over the last 8 years.

METHODS

This retrospective study includes 32 patients with cervical cancer Figo stage (2009) IB who underwent laparoscopic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy without using any kind of uterine manipulator. Patients were eligible if they had squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, or adeno-squamous carcinoma, and no para-aortic lymph node involvement by imaging or after frozen section. The median value and range were assessed for operative outcomes and relapse rate and disease-free survival rate were evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

In the study, 32 patients were included and among them 27 women were stage IB1 (18 cases with tumor size 2-4 cm) and 5 women stage IB2 (Figo stage 2009). The median age of patients was 50.5 years (range 31-68) and median body mass index (B.M.I) was 25.3 kg/m² (range 19-33.5 kg/m²). The average operating time was 228 min (range 147-310 min) and median hospital stay was 2.7 days (range 2-7 days). Approximate blood loss was 188 ml (range 120-300 ml). After a median follow-up of 37 months, we had 2 recurrences out of 32 cases and no death. Especially for patients with Figo stage (2009) IB1, the recurrence rate was 3.7% (1/27). The 3-year PFS was 93.7% and the number at risk 23 (71.8%) and especially for the IB1 stage (2009) women, the 3-year PFS was 96.1% and the number at risk 21 (77.7%). The 3-year OS was 100% with no. at risk 71.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy without uterine manipulator is feasible and safe surgical procedure for cervical cancer with acceptable surgical and oncological outcomes in the hands of well-trained and experienced laparoscopic surgeons. Our retrospective study reveals better oncological outcome compared to other studies on the minimally invasive approach, where uterine manipulator was routinely used and no vaginal sealing of the tumor was made.

Survival outcomes in patients with cervical cancer treated with open versus robotic radical hysterectomy: Our surgical pathology interrogation

OBJECTIVE

To compare the survival outcomes and surgical radicality between women who underwent open versus robotic radical hysterectomy (RH) for early cervical cancer.

METHODS

In this institutional retrospective study, patients with clinical stage IA2- IIA (FIGO 2009) squamous cell, adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous carcinoma of the cervix who underwent either open or robotic RH between 2000 and 2017 were identified. Parametrial width and vaginal length were re-measured from pathology slides. An inverse propensity score weighting model was used to adjust selection bias.

RESULTS

A total of 333 patients were included (181 open, 152 robotic). The median follow-up time was 130 months for the open group and 53 months for the robotic group. There were 31 (17.1%) recurrences in the open and 21 (13.8%) in the robotic group. The 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) for the robotic and open group were 79.0% and 90.5%, respectively (HR 2.37, 95% CI 1.40-4.02). Five-year overall survival (OS) were 85.8% and 95.3%, respectively (HR 3.17, 95% CI 1.76-5.70). The mean parametrial width was similar between the open and robotic groups (2.5 vs 2.4 cm, p = 0.99). Unique recurrences (38.1%, 8/21) were noted in the robotic group: 2 port-site, 4 peritoneal, and 2 carcinomatosis. The time to vaginal recurrence was shorter in the robotic group than the open group (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent robotic RH had inferior PFS and OS compared to open surgery. Surgical radicality according to pathology measurements was similar between the two approaches.

Survival outcomes after surgical management of endometrial cancer: Analysis after the first 10-year experience of robotic surgery in a single center

OBJECTIVES

To report the 5-year survival rates of patients undergone surgery for endometrial cancer, within a 10-year study.

METHODS

Single institution series with a minimum 2-year follow-up. The 5-year survival outcomes of patients managed by robotics, laparoscopy and open surgery during the same period were compared. Multivariable analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors.

RESULTS

Three hundred and sixty-three consecutive patients were analysed. Open surgery showed a higher rate of abdominal recurrences (17.2% vs. 3.3%; p < 0.001); no differences were recorded in terms of vaginal, nodal or distant recurrences between open and minimally invasive surgery. At multivariable analyses, type II histology, peritoneal cytology and lympho-vascular space invasion were independent predictors for survival. Based on each FIGO (The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) stage, no differences were found in terms of 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival between the approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical route does not affect the 5-year survival in patients with endometrial cancer. Both robotics and laparoscopy are confirmed as viable options.

Early removal of indwelling urinary catheter after radical surgery for early-stage cervical cancer-A cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the difference between early and delayed removal of indwelling urinary catheter after radical hysterectomy (RH) or radical trachelectomy (RT).

METHODS

An ambispective study was conducted in early-stage cervical cancer patients who underwent RH or RT. Delayed indwelling urinary catheter removal occurred on a postoperative day (POD) 7 in the retrospective group (January 2012-November 2013), and early removal occurred on POD 1 in the prospective group (May 2014-June 2017). The postvoid residual (PVR) test was performed after indwelling catheter removal in both groups.

RESULTS

Our sample included 47 patients in the delayed group and 48 in the early one. There was no difference in age, body mass index, tumor size, histology, stage, surgical approach, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. Indwelling urinary catheter reinsertion was needed in 16 (34%) patients in the delayed group and 12 (25%) in the early group (P = .37), with no statistical difference between the median PVR volumes -82.5 and 45 mL (P = .06), respectively. Seven (14.9%) patients in the delayed group presented with 30-day urinary tract infection vs two (4.2%) in the early group (P = .09).

CONCLUSIONS

Early indwelling urinary catheter removal, in regard to the rate of catheter reinsertion and PVR volume, does not differ from delayed removal.

A Concise Paradigm on Radical Hysterectomy: The Comprehensive Anatomy of Parametrium, Paracolpium and the Pelvic Autonomic Nerve System and Its Surgical Implication

The current understanding of radical hysterectomy is more centered on the uterus and little is discussed regarding the resection of the vaginal cuff and the paracolpium as an essential part of this procedure. The anatomic dissections of two fresh and 17 formalin-fixed female pelvis cadavers were utilized to understand and decipher the anatomy of the pelvic autonomic nerve system (PANS) and its connections to the surrounding anatomical structures, especially the paracolpium. The study mandates the recognition of the three-dimensional (3D) anatomic template of the parametrium and paracolpium and provides herewith an enhanced scope during a nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy procedure by precise description of the paracolpium and its close anatomical relationships to the components of the PANS. This enables the medical fraternity to distinguish between direct infiltration of the paracolpium, where the nerve sparing technique is no longer possible, and the affected lymph node in the paracolpium, where nerve sparing is still an option. This study gives rise to a tailored surgical option that allows for abandoning the resection of the paracolpium by FIGO stage IB1, where less than 2 cm vaginal vault resection is demanded.

Detection of sentinel lymph node in laparoscopic surgery for uterine cervical cancer using carbon nanoparticles

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) has been widely confirmed the efficiency in sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping for various solid tumors. This study aims to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of CNPs during laparoscopic surgery for cervical cancer.

METHODS

We analyzed 45 women with stage IB1-IIA1 cervical cancer who underwent SLN mapping using CNPs during laparoscopic surgery. The effectiveness of CNPs was evaluated by the detection rate and accuracy parameters. Factors associated with SLN laterality and SLNs localizations were analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall and bilateral detection rate was 93.3% (42/45) and 60.0% (27/45), respectively. Elevated body mass index was associated with decreased bilateral detection rate (P = .015). A total of 225 SLNs were harvested, with a mean number of 5.0 ± 3.6. A total of 81.3% of SLNs were in expected localizations including external iliac (39.1%), internal iliac (25.8%), and obturator (16.4%) regions, while 18.7% in unusual localizations including common iliac (10.7%), parametrial (7.6%), and presarcal (0.4%) regions. None positive lymph node was found in non-SLNs with a false-negative rate of 0%.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic SLN mapping with CNPs appears to be simple and efficient for patients with early-stage cervical cancer.

Patterns of recurrence after laparoscopic versus open abdominal radical hysterectomy in patients with cervical cancer: a propensity-matched analysis

OBJECTIVE

Recent evidence has suggested that laparoscopic radical hysterectomy is associated with an increased risk of recurrence in comparison with open abdominal radical hysterectomy. The aim of our study was to identify patterns of recurrence after laparoscopic and open abdominal radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer.

METHODS

This a retrospective multi-institutional study evaluating patients with recurrent cervical cancer after laparoscopic and open abdominal surgery performed between January 1990 and December 2018. Inclusion criteria were: age ≥18 years old, radical hysterectomy (type B or type C), no recurrent disease, and clinical follow-up >30 days. The primary endpoint was to evaluate patterns of first recurrence following laparoscopic and open abdominal radical hysterectomy. The secondary endpoint was to estimate the effect of the primary surgical approach (laparoscopy and open surgery) in post-recurrence survival outcomes (event-free survival and overall survival). In order to reduce possible confounding factors, we applied a propensity-matching algorithm. Survival outcomes were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier model.

RESULTS

A total of 1058 patients were included in the analysis (823 underwent open abdominal radical hysterectomy and 235 patients underwent laparoscopic radical hysterectomy). The study included 117 (14.2%) and 35 (14.9%) patients who developed recurrent cervical cancer after open or laparoscopic surgery, respectively. Applying a propensity matched comparison (1:2), we reduced the population to 105 patients (35 vs 70 patients with recurrence after laparoscopic and open radical hysterectomy). Median follow-up time was 39.1 (range 4-221) months and 32.3 (range 4-124) months for patients undergoing open and laparoscopic surgery, respectively. Patients undergoing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy had shorter progression-free survival than patients undergoing open abdominal surgery (HR 1.98, 95% CI 1.32 to 2.97; p=0.005). Patients undergoing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy were more likely to develop intrapelvic recurrences (74% vs 34%; p<0.001) and peritoneal carcinomatosis (17% vs 1%; p=0.005) than patients undergoing open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy are at higher risk of developing intrapelvic recurrences and peritoneal carcinomatosis. Further evidence is needed in order to corroborate our findings.

Nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy in the precision surgery for cervical cancer

Precision cancer surgery is a system that integrates the accurate evaluation of tumor extension and aggressiveness, precise surgical maneuvers, prognosis evaluation, and prevention of the deterioration of quality of life (QoL). In this regard, nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy has a pivotal role in the personalized treatment of cervical cancer. Various types of radical hysterectomy can be combined with the nerve-sparing procedure. The extent of parametrium and vagina/paracolpium excision and the nerve-sparing procedure are tailored to the tumor status. Advanced magnetic resonance imaging technology will improve the assessment of the local tumor extension. Validated risk factors for perineural invasion might guide selecting treatment for cervical cancer. Type IV Kobayashi (modified Okabayashi) radical hysterectomy combined with the systematic nerve-sparing procedure aims to both maximize the therapeutic effect and minimize the QoL impairment. Regarding the technical aspect, the preservation of vesical nerve fibers is essential. Selective transection of uterine nerve fibers conserves the vesical nerve fibers as an essential piece of the pelvic nervous system comprising the hypogastric nerve, pelvic splanchnic nerves, and inferior hypogastric plexus. This method is anatomically and surgically valid for adequate removal of the parametrial and vagina/paracolpium tissues while preserving the total pelvic nervous system. Local recurrence after nerve-sparing surgery might occur due to perineural invasion or inadequate separation of pelvic nerves cutting through the wrong tissue plane between the pelvic nerves and parametrium/paracolpium. Postoperative management for long-term maintenance of bladder function is as critical as preserving the pelvic nerves.

Surgical, Urinary, and Survival Outcomes of Nerve-sparing Versus Traditional Radical Hysterectomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study in China

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the surgical, urinary, and survival outcomes between nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy (NSRH) and traditional radical hysterectomy (TRH) for stage IB cervical cancer, in which all the primary procedures were performed by a single physician.

Standardized terminology of apical structures in the female pelvis based on a structured medical literature review

The objectives of this study were to review the published literature and selected textbooks, to compare existing usage to that in Terminologia Anatomica, and to compile standardized anatomic nomenclature for the apical structures of the female pelvis. MEDLINE was searched from inception until May 30, 2017, based on 33 search terms generated by group consensus. Resulting abstracts were screened by 11 reviewers to identify pertinent studies reporting on apical female pelvic anatomy. Following additional focused screening for rarer terms and selective representative random sampling of the literature for common terms, accepted full-text manuscripts and relevant textbook chapters were extracted for anatomic terms related to apical structures. From an initial total of 55,448 abstracts, 193 eligible studies were identified for extraction, to which 14 chapters from 9 textbooks were added. In all, 293 separate structural terms were identified, of which 184 had Terminologia Anatomica-accepted terms. Inclusion of several widely used regional terms (vaginal apex, adnexa, cervico-vaginal junction, uretero-vesical junction, and apical segment), structural terms (vesicouterine ligament, paracolpium, mesoteres, mesoureter, ovarian venous plexus, and artery to the round ligament) and spaces (vesicocervical, vesicovaginal, presacral, and pararectal) not included in Terminologia Anatomica is proposed. Furthermore, 2 controversial terms (lower uterine segment and supravaginal septum) were identified that require additional research to support or refute continued use in medical communication. This study confirms and identifies inconsistencies and gaps in the nomenclature of apical structures of the female pelvis. Standardized terminology should be used when describing apical female pelvic structures to facilitate communication and to promote consistency among multiple academic, clinical, and surgical disciplines.

Guidelines of the Brazilian Society of Oncologic Surgery for pelvic exenteration in the treatment of cervical cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The primary treatment for locally advanced cases of cervical cancer is chemoradiation followed by high-dose brachytherapy. When this treatment fails, pelvic exenteration (PE) is an option in some cases. This study aimed to develop recommendations for the best management of patients with cervical cancer undergoing salvage PE.

METHODS

A questionnaire was administered to all members of the Brazilian Society of Surgical Oncology. Of them, 68 surgeons participated in the study and were divided into 10 working groups. A literature review of studies retrieved from the National Library of Medicine database was carried out on topics chosen by the participants. These topics were indications for curative and palliative PE, preoperative and intraoperative evaluation of tumor resectability, access routes and surgical techniques, PE classification, urinary, vaginal, intestinal, and pelvic floor reconstructions, and postoperative follow-up. To define the level of evidence and strength of each recommendation, an adapted version of the Infectious Diseases Society of America Health Service rating system was used.

RESULTS

Most conducts and management strategies reviewed were strongly recommended by the participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Guidelines outlining strategies for PE in the treatment of persistent or relapsed cervical cancer were developed and are based on the best evidence available in the literature.

Laparoscopic vs. Abdominal Radical Hysterectomy for Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer

This study is to compare the survival outcomes of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) to those of abdominal radical hysterectomy (ARH) for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). Patients with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2009 stage IB2 to IIB LACC who underwent radical hysterectomy between 2001 and 2015 were identified. The disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared according to the surgical approach and were adjusted based on clinicopathologic characteristics. A total of 396 patients were included in the study, with 179 (45.2%) and 217 (54.8%) patients in the ARH and LRH groups, respectively. The LRH group showed a significantly lower amount of estimated blood loss, lower blood transfusion rate and shorter length of hospital stay. Overall, there were no significant differences in the 5-year DFS and 5-year OS between the LRH and ARH groups with the Kaplan-Meier method. However, multivariate analyses identified LRH as an independent prognostic factor for a poor DFS (hazard ratio [HR] 2.5; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.19 to 0.87; p = 0.02). The analysis of stage IB2 disease and the squamous subtype (61.9% and 87.9% of all participants, respectively) reached the same conclusion. When stratifying by FIGO stage, the patients with IB2 (n = 348) in the ARH group had a significantly better DFS (HR 0.14, 95% CI 0.05–0.42, p < 0.01) and OS (HR 0.17, 95% CI 0.04–0.67, p = 0.11) than those in the LRH group in the Cox regression model. However, no differences were found in patient with stage IIA1, IIA2, or IIB in Cox regression model. When stratifying by histological types, for the patients with squamous carcinomas (n = 375), in Cox model, ARH had a significantly superior DFS compared with those who underwent LRH (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.25–0.82, p = 0.01), but the OS was not statistically significant (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.27–1.20, p = 0.14). However, no differences were found in patient with adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous carcinomas in the Cox model. Therefore, ARH was associated with a higher DFS than LRH in patients with LACC, especially in patients with stage IB2 disease or the squamous subtype.

Identification and injury to the inferior hypogastric plexus in nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy

Waterjet dissection of the inferior hypogastric plexus (IHP) resulted in a more rapid return of normal urodynamics than blunt dissection (control group) in patients who received laparoscopic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy (NSRH) in a randomized controlled study. However, the definite reasons for these results were unknown. This subgroup analysis compared the neural areas and impairment in the IHP uterine branches harvested during NSRH as an alternative to the IHP vesical branches between the waterjet and control groups. This study included samples from 30 eligible patients in each group of the trial NCT03020238. At least one specimen from each side of the IHP uterine branches was resected. The tissues were scanned, images were captured, and the neural component areas were calculated using the image segmentation method. Immunohistochemical staining was used to evaluate neural impairment. The control and waterjet groups had similar areas of whole tissues sent for evaluation. However, the control group had significantly fewer areas (median 272158 versus 200439 μm², p = 0.044) and a lower percentage (median 4.9% versus 3.0%, p = 0.011) of neural tissues. No significant changes in immunohistochemical staining were found between the two groups. For patients with residual urine ≤100 and >100 ml at 14 days after NSRH (42 and 18 patients, respectively), there were significantly different percentages of neural tissues in the resected samples (p < 0.001). Hence, Due to the accurate identification of IHP during NSRH, the waterjet dissection technique achieved better urodynamic results.

Surgical resection based on ontogenetic cancer field theory for cervical cancer: mature results from a single-centre, prospective, observational, cohort study

BACKGROUND

Previous findings from our centre suggest that carcinoma of the cervix propagates within ontogenetic cancer fields, tissue compartments defined by staged morphogenesis. We aimed to determine whether surgical treatment that accounts for stage-associated, ontogenetic cancer fields and their associated lymphoid tissues results in locoregional tumour control without the need for adjuvant radiotherapy.

METHODS

We did the final clinical and histopathological evaluation of data from, the single-centre, observational, cohort study, the Leipzig School Mesometrial Resection Study. Patients of any age with stage IB1, IB2, IIA1, IIA2, or IIB cervical cancer (according to 2009 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics [FIGO]) had total mesometrial resection or extended mesometrial resection and therapeutic lymph node dissection, done on the basis of ontogenetic cancer fields. We defined sentinel node, first-line, second-line, and third-line lymph node regions as progressive regional cancer fields. Primary outcomes were disease-specific survival and recurrence-free survival, and treatment-related morbidity (assessed with the Franco-Italian glossary). Applying Cox proportional hazard models, ontogenetic local (T) and regional (N) tumour staging was compared with pathological T and N staging. This trial is registered with the German Clinical Trials Register, number DRKS00015171.

FINDINGS

Between Oct 16, 1999, and June 27, 2017, 523 patients were treated per protocol and followed up for a median of 61·8 months (IQR 49·3-94·8). In 495 patients with cervical cancer treated with cancer field surgery, 5-year disease-specific survival was 89·4% (95% CI 86·5-92·4) and recurrence-free survival was 83·1% (79·7-86·6). In the per-protocol population of 523 patients, treatment-related morbidity comprised 112 (21%) grade 2 and 15 (3%) grade 3 complications. The most common moderate and severe treatment-related complications and sequelae were wound dehiscence (17 [3%]), hydronephrosis (17 [3%]), bowel obstruction (26 [5%]), and lymph oedema (33 [6%]). One patient (<1%), who received total mesometrial resection, died from postoperative brain infarction.

INTERPRETATION

Total or extended mesometrial resection with therapeutic lymph node dissection based on ontogenetic cancer fields results in good survival outcomes of patients with cervical cancer in our institution, but needs to be investigated further in multicentre trials.

FUNDING

Leipzig School of Radical Pelvic Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical School, and the Gynecologic Oncology Research Foundation.

Comparison of survival and perioperative outcomes following simple and radical hysterectomy for stage II endometrial cancer: a single-institution, retrospective, matched-pair analysis

Objective

We aimed to compare the survival and perioperative outcomes of patients with stage II endometrial cancer (EC) undergoing simple hysterectomy (SH) or radical hysterectomy (RH), to validate the various guidelines.

Methods

A total of 155 consecutive patients diagnosed with stage II EC from 2000 to 2014 were reviewed. We identified 40 pairs of patients (40 SH and 40 RH) who were matched in terms of age, pathological type, and lymphovascular space invasion status using matched-pair analysis. Patient data were collected from medical records and outcomes were determined by telephone follow-up.

Results

Among the 80 patients in the two groups, seven died from tumor recurrence. However, cancer-related survival rates were not significantly different between the SH and RH groups. The 3-year cancer-related survival rates in the SH and RH groups were 94.97% and 92.53%, and the 5-year survival rates were 92.40% and 90.03%, respectively. Regarding perioperative outcomes, the SH group had significantly less intraoperative bleeding and a significantly shorter catheter-indwelling time than the RH group.

Conclusions

SH provides similar survival outcomes and a superior perioperative quality of life compared with RH in patients with stage II EC.

Efficacy of different surgical approaches in the clinical and survival outcomes of patients with early-stage cervical cancer: protocol of a phase III multicentre randomised controlled trial in China

INTRODUCTION

In the last three decades, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for radical hysterectomy (RH) has become a popular treatment option for early-stage cervical cancer. However, a recently published randomised controlled trial (LACC trial) and an epidemiological study in the USA revealed strong evidence against the survival advantage of MIS for RH. However, the influencing factors of research centres and the learning curves of surgeons in these studies lacked sufficient evaluation. The efficacy of different surgical approaches for early-stage cervical cancer in the clinical and survival outcomes remains to be validated.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Patients diagnosed with FIGO (2009) stage IA1 (with lymphovascular space invasion), IA2 or IB1 cervical cancer with histological subtype of squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma will be recruited in this multicentre randomised controlled study. Patients will be randomly assigned to undergo MIS (robot-assisted or laparoscopic RH) or abdominal RH. Within 2 years, 1448 patients in 28 centres in China will be recruited to meet the criteria of a non-inferiority threshold of HR of 1.6 with bilateral nominal α <0.05 and power of 0.8. All surgeries will be performed by the indicated experienced surgeons. At least 100 RH cases in the individual past one decade of practice will be analysed as proof of learning curves. The primary objective of this study is 5-year disease-free survival. The secondary objectives include the overall survival rate, progression-free survival rate, disease-free survival rate, cost-effectiveness and quality of life.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board of Peking Union Medical College Hospital and is filed on record by all other centres. Written informed consent will be obtained from all eligible participants before enrolment. The results will be disseminated through community events, academic conferences, student theses and peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03739944.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical hysterectomy for stage IB2-to-IIB cervical cancer: a retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

This study was to evaluate the surgical and survival effects of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) followed by radical hysterectomy (RH) for cervical cancer with stages IB2 to IIB of FIGO 2009 staging.

METHODS

From February 2, 2001 to November 11, 2015, 428 patients received NAC followed by RH in a tertiary hospital, in which all the major procedures were performed by one surgeon. Surgical and survival outcomes were evaluated between the NAC and primary RH groups.

RESULTS

A total of 279 (65.2%) patients received NAC, and the overall clinical and complete pathological response rates were 65.9% and 10.8%, respectively. Compared with primary RH patients, NAC patients had more advanced stages, higher recurrence rate, longer median duration of RH, and more median estimated blood loss. After adjusted with baseline risk factors, no significant differences in progression-free or overall survival were observed between the NAC and primary RH groups. However, the responders to NAC had better survival outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no surgical or survival benefits of NAC for patients with cervical cancer of stages IB2 to IIB except for the responders to NAC.

Minimally invasive radical hysterectomy: an analysis of oncologic outcomes from Hospital Italiano (Argentina)

BACKGROUND

The Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer (LACC) trial demonstrated a higher rate of disease recurrence and worse disease-free survival in patients who underwent minimally invasive radical hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate surgical and oncological outcome of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy performed at Hospital Italiano in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

METHODS

This retrospective study included all patients with cervical cancer, 2009 FIGO stage IA1, with lymphovascular invasion to IB1 (<4 cm) who underwent a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy between June 2010 and June 2015. Patients were eligible if they had squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, or adenosquamous carcinoma, and no lymph node involvement by imaging. Patients must have undergone a type C1 radical hysterectomy. Only patients who were treated by a laparoscopic approach were included. Patients were excluded if histopathology showed a component of neuroendocrine carcinoma before or after surgery; if they had synchronous primary tumors, history of abdominal or pelvic radiotherapy, or were operated on at an outside institution; and if they had only surgery and no follow-up in our institution. Relapse rate and disease-free survival were evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients were evaluated. The median age was 41 years (range 27-70). Distribution of histologic sub-types was squamous carcinoma in 77 patients (71%), adenocarcinoma in 27 patients (25%), and adenosquamous carcinoma in four patients (4%). Ninety-nine patients (92%) had stage IB1 tumors and 58 (54%) patients had tumors ≤2 cm. The median surgical time was 240 min (range 190-290), the median estimated blood loss was 140 mL (range 50-500) and the transfusion rate was 3.7%. The median length of hospital stay was 2 days (range 1-11). The median follow-up time was 39 months (range 11-83). The global recurrence rate after laparoscopic radical hysterectomy was 15% (16/108). According to tumor size, the recurrence rate was 12% in patients with tumors ≤2 cm (7/58) and 18% in patients with tumors >2 cm (9/50) (OR=0.76; 95% CI 0.26 to 2.22; p=0.62) The 3- and 5-year relapse rate was 17% (95% CI 11% to 27%). The 3- and 5-year disease-free survival was 81% (95% CI 71% to 88%) and 70% (95% CI 43% to 86%), respectively. Overall survival at 3 years was 87% (95% CI 76% to 93%).

CONCLUSION

The recurrence rate after laparoscopic radical hysterectomy was 15%, and in tumors ≤2 cm it was 12%. The 3-year disease-free survival was 81%. Given these results our hospital has changed the approach to open radical hysterectomy.

Surgical Treatment of Early-Stage Cervical Cancer: A Multi-Institution Experience in 2124 Cases in The Netherlands Over a 30-Year Period

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the pattern of recurrence and survival related to prognostic variables, including type of surgery as a clinical variable, in patients surgically treated for early cervix cancer.

METHODS

Records of 2124 patients who underwent a radical hysterectomy for International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics stage I/IIA cervical cancer between 1982 and 2011 were reviewed. Clinical-pathologic prognostic variables, also including extent of parametrectomy, were identified and used in a multivariable Cox proportional hazard model to explore associations between disease-free survival (DFS) and prognostic variables.

RESULTS

The 5-year DFS for the total group was 86%. Large tumor diameter, nonsquamous histology, lymph node metastases, parametrial involvement, lymph vascular space invasion, deep stromal invasion, and less radical surgery were independent poor prognostic variables for survival. Disease-free survival was independently associated with the type of radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy in favor of more radical parametrectomy (hazard ratio, 2.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-2.5). This difference was not found in tumors with a diameter of at least 20 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that variables such as large tumor diameter, nonsquamous histology, lymph vascular space invasion, deep stromal invasion, positive lymph nodes, and parametrial infiltration are poor prognostic variables in early cervix cancer treated by surgery. The extent of parametrectomy had no influence on survival in tumors of 20 mm or less. For larger tumors, a more radical hysterectomy might be associated with better DFS. Taking into account the possible bias in this study as a result of its retrospective design, ideally a prospective cohort study with clear definition of radicality is necessary to answer this important clinical question.

A Modification of Laparoscopic Type C1 Hysterectomy to Reduce Postoperative Bladder Dysfunction: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of a modified type C1 hysterectomy, using the deep uterine vein (DUV) and its branches as an anatomical landmark, to reduce postoperative bladder dysfunction in cervical cancer patients.

METHODS

One hundred fifty-two stage IA2-IIB cervical cancer patients were enrolled to undergo a laparoscopic hysterectomy. According to the operation methods, 93 or 59 of the patients were assigned to a type C1 hysterectomy (group 1), using the DUV and its branches as an anatomical landmark, and a type C2 hysterectomy (group 2), respectively. The baseline data, operation time, blood loss, hospitalization time, survival rate, and bladder dysfunction of both groups were compared.

RESULTS

The patients in group 1 experienced shorter overall and postoperative hospitalization time, less blood loss, and shorter catheterization time, as compared to those in group 2. There were no statistically significant differences in intraoperative damage, postoperative complications, numbers of dissected lymph nodes, and rates of positive resection margins between two groups. The incidences of long-term overall bladder dysfunction, urinary retention, and bladder-emptying difficulties were lower in group 1 than those in group 2. There was no statistically significant difference in bladder storage dysfunction, such as urinary incontinence and frequent urination, between two groups. The 3-year disease-free survival rates and 3-year overall survival rates in the two groups were both similar.

CONCLUSION

Compared to type C2 hysterectomies, type C1 hysterectomies, using the DUV and its branches as an anatomical landmark, resulted in shorter hospitalization time, less blood loss, reduced bladder dysfunction, and uncompromised radicality.