Steerable DROP-IN radioguidance during minimal-invasive non-robotic cervical and endometrial sentinel lymph node surgery

PURPOSE

The recently introduced tethered DROP-IN gamma probe has revolutionized the way robotic radioguided surgery is performed, fully exploiting the nature of steerable robotic instruments. Given this success, the current first-in-human study investigates if the DROP-IN can also provide benefit in combination with steerable non-robotic instruments during conventional laparoscopic surgery, showing equivalence or even benefit over a traditional rigid gamma probe.

METHODS

The evaluation was performed in ten patients during laparoscopic cervical (n = 4) and endometrial (n = 6) cancer sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedures. Surgical guidance was provided using the hybrid, or bi-modal, SLN tracer ICG-99mTc-nanocolloid. SLN detection was compared between the traditional rigid laparoscopic gamma probe, the combination of a DROP-IN gamma probe and a steerable laparoscopic instrument (LaproFlex), and fluorescence imaging.

RESULTS

The gynecologists experienced an enlarged freedom of movement when using the DROP-IN + LaproFlex combination compared to the rigid laparoscopic probe, making it possible to better isolate the SLN signal from background signals. This did not translate into a change in the SLN find rate yet. In both cervical and endometrial cancer combined, the rigid probe and DROP-IN + LaproFlex combination provided an equivalent detection rate of 96%, while fluorescence provided 85%.

CONCLUSION

We have successfully demonstrated the in-human use of steerable DROP-IN radioguidance during laparoscopic cervical and endometrial cancer SLN procedures, expanding the utility beyond robotic procedures. Indicating an improved surgical experience, these findings encourage further investigation and consideration on a path towards routine clinical practice and improved patient outcome.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

HCB/2021/0777 and NCT04492995; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04492995.

Lymphovascular Space Invasion in Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer (LySEC): Patterns of Recurrence and Predictors. A Multicentre Retrospective Cohort Study of the Spain Gynecologic Oncology Group

The main aim is to compare oncological outcomes and patterns of recurrence of patients with early-stage endometrioid endometrial cancer according to lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) status. The secondary objective is to determine preoperative predictors of LVSI. We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study. A total of 3546 women diagnosed with postoperative early-stage (FIGO I-II, 2009) endometrioid endometrial cancer were included. Co-primary endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and pattern of recurrence. Cox proportional hazard models were used for time-to-event analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistical regression models were employed. Positive LVSI was identified in 528 patients (14.6%) and was an independent prognostic factor for DFS (HR 1.8), OS (HR 2.1) and distant recurrences (HR 2.37). Distant recurrences were more frequent in patients with positive LVSI (78.2% vs. 61.3%, p < 0.01). Deep myometrial invasion (OR 3.04), high-grade tumors (OR 2.54), cervical stroma invasion (OR 2.01), and tumor diameter ≥ 2 cm (OR 2.03) were independent predictors of LVSI. In conclusion, in these patients, LVSI is an independent risk factor for shorter DFS and OS, and distant recurrence, but not for local recurrence. Deep myometrial invasion, cervical stroma invasion, high-grade tumors, and a tumor diameter ≥ 2 cm are independent predictors of LVSI.