The Impact of Waiting Time-to-Surgery on Survival in Endometrial Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecological cancer in developed countries and a standard treatment of surgery should be performed as expediently as possible. Delay time to surgery and survival was debated. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of time-interval between diagnosis and surgery (TDS) in EC patients with regards to prognosis and mortality rates.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted between January 2009 and May 2021 at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital, Thailand. Subjects were EC cases who underwent primary surgery during the study period. Cases with partial treatment were disqualified from the study. Subjects who underwent surgery before and after 6 weeks were classified as early and delayed surgery groups. Baseline and clinical characteristics were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

During the study period, 419 EC cases were recruited. The mean age of participants was 56.8 years. Two-thirds (338/491) of subjects were menopausal. Endometrioid histology (406/491) was the most common histology subtype. Five years disease free survival (DFS) of early and delayed surgery groups were comparable at a percentage of 82.5 and 83.0, respectively. Among advanced stage and non-endometrioid EC cases, the delayed surgery group had significantly shorter DFS than the early group. Advanced stage, high grade and positive lympho-vascular space invasion (LVSI) were independent factors for poor DFS. Predictive factors for mortality were advanced stage and tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The TDS was not a prognostic factor for disease recurrence or overall mortality. Time to surgery equal to or more than 6 weeks gave worse prognosis for DFS among advanced stage or non-endometrioid histology EC.

Oral Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):Cannabinoid (CBD) Cannabis Extract Adjuvant for Reducing Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV): A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial

Objective

To evaluate the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):cannabinoid (CBD) (1:1) oil in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in gynecologic cancer patients who received moderate-to-high emetogenic chemotherapy.

Material and Method

This was a randomized, double-blinded, crossover and placebo-controlled trial. The study was conducted at the Gynecologic Oncology Units, Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital (BAH), Royal Thai Air Force, Bangkok, Thailand, between August and November 2022. Participants had gynecologic cancer and received moderate-to-high emetogenic chemotherapy. Subjects were randomized and divided into two groups (A and B) based on the block of four randomization method. In the first cycle, groups A and B received THC:CBD extract oil 1:1 (TCEO) and placebo before chemotherapy administration. In the second cycle, groups A and B received placebo and TCEO before chemotherapy administration. Both groups received per protocol antiemetic medication during chemotherapy. Nausea score and side effects were recorded.

Results

A total of 60 cases were recruited. After exclusion, 54 cases were included in the study. The mean age of participants was 54.4 years. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.5 kg/m2. Fifty-nine (21/54) percent cases were the advanced stages of cancer. The nausea score of TCEO and placebo groups were 2.11 and 2.99, respectively (P < 0.05). More than half of the participants (36/54) reported dizziness and sedation side effects. Dry mouth, confusion, anxiety, and palpitation of both groups were comparable.

Conclusion

The cannabinoid extract (THC:CBD) was an appropriate adjuvant agent to reduce CINV in patients with gynecologic cancer who received high-emetogenic chemotherapy. Dizziness and sedation were the major side effects.

Endometrial Thickness Measurement as Predictor of Endometrial Hyperplasia and Cancer in Perimenopausal Uterine Bleeding: Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Endometrial thickness (ET) measurement was an alternative method for predicting abnormal endometrial pathology in postmenopausal bleeding. Cut-off value of ET measurement could not be use in perimenopausal bleeding.

OBJECTIVE

Aim of this study was to investigate appropriate ET cut-off value for perimenopause women with abnormal uterine bleeding (PEMB) and abnormal endometrial histopathology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. PEMB at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital between July 2018 and June 2022 were recruited. Subjects who met inclusion criteria underwent ET measurement and endometrial biopsy via endometrial aspirator. Participants who had histopathology report of endometrial hyperplasia and more were classified as the study group. The Control group were subjects with no endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Demographic and clinical character data were included. Correlation of ET and endometrial histopathology were calculated for statistical significance.

RESULTS

A total of 304 cases were included. After exclusion, 254 subjects were recruited for this study. There were 22 and 232 cases in the study and control groups, respectively. The mean age and body mass index (BMI) of participants were 44.7 years old and 27.5 kg/m2, respectively. Prevalence of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer in perimenopausal uterine bleeding were 7.5 (19/254) and 1.2 (3/254) percent, respectively. Endometrial thickness equal to and more than 8 mm was associated with abnormal endometrial histopathology with statistical significance. Age, BMI, nulliparity, anovulatory bleeding history, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus and anovulation state of both groups were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

Endometrial thickness equal or more than 8 mm were significantly associated with endometrial hyperplasia or more among perimenopausal women with abnormal uterine bleeding.

Incidence of Fetal Myocardial Hypertrophy in Mother with Diabetes Mellitus by Using Cardio-Spatiotemporal Image Correlation (STIC) M-Mode

Objective

The aim was to demonstrate the prevalence of fetal myocardial hypertrophy (FMH) in diabetes mellitus (DM) pregnant women using spatio-temporal image correlation (STIC) M-mode.

Material and Methods

This prospective descriptive study was conducted at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital (BAH) Royal Thai Air Force between April and December 2022. Participants were singleton DM pregnant women with gestational age (GA) between 18 and 40 weeks who had antenatal care and delivery at BAH. DM screening was randomized blood sugar obtained from all participants. All participants underwent fetal heart exams by four-dimension ultrasound with STIC M-mode.

Results

One hundred and forty-five participants were recruited and classified as pregestational (PDM) and gestational DM (GDM) at 31 and 114 cases, respectively. The mean age of participants was 31.7 years old. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) of PDM was significantly higher than GDM (105.1 vs 87.0 mg%). GDMA2 had more elevated FBS than GDMA1 (p < 0.001). PDM had significantly greater FBS and two-hour postprandial blood sugar (2hr-PP) than GDM (105.1/87.0 and 151.5/117.9 mg%, respectively). FBS and 2hr-PP of GDMA2 were more than GDMA1 with statistical significance. Good glycemic control of GDM was significantly better than PDM. GDMA1 had better glycemic control than GDMA2 with statistical significance. Four-fifth (115/145) of participants had FMH. FMH and estimated fetal weight among PDM and GDM were comparable. Both good and poor glycemic control had similar FMH. Neonatal outcomes of FMH or non-FMH infants were similar.

Conclusion

The prevalence of FMH in diabetic pregnant women was 79.3%. Glycemic control had no correlation to FMH.

Nomogram of fetal right portal vein diameter at gestational age 30 to 35 weeks and prediction of small for gestational age at birth

AIM

To construct the nomogram of fetal right portal vein (RPV) diameter at 30 to 35 weeks' gestation in Thai pregnant population and the use of RPV measurement to predicting small for gestational age (SGA) fetus.

METHODS

A prospective, cross-sectional study of singleton pregnancies at antenatal visit between 30 and 35⁺⁶ weeks of gestation in single center, Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital (BAH) was conducted from January to August 2020. Ultrasonography of fetal biometry and RPV diameter measurement were performed as well as immediate newborn birth weight measurement. The nomogram of fetal RPV was developed for standardization for Thai people.

RESULTS

A total of 219 singleton pregnant women were enrolled and ultrasonographic measurement of RPV and fetal biometry was obtained. Mean maternal age and gestational period were 29.4 years and 33.0 weeks, respectively. One third of participants were classified as obese. RPV diameter ranged from 1.85 to 6.07 mm and increased linearly with gestational age. The optimal threshold of RPV diameter for diagnosis SGA was less than 3.06 mm with area under ROC curve at a level of 0.613 (95%CI 0.496 to 0.731). Sensitivity and specificity were 38.46% and 83.94%, respectively. There was no fetal death or neonatal morbidity in the present study.

CONCLUSION

RPV diameter increases in size depending on gestational age. RPV diameter at 30 to 35⁺⁶ weeks gestation was a useful measurement for SGA prediction. RPV measurements greater than 3.06 mm strongly indicated normal fetal growth.

Comparative Study in Quality of Life between Thai Endometrial Cancer Survivors and Healthy Women in Thammasat University Hospital

Background:

This study aimed to survey quality of life (QoL) in endometrial cancer survivors between surgery with adjuvant therapy (radiation with or without chemotherapy) and surgery alone in Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Gynecologic Oncology clinic, Thammasat University hospital, Thailand between March 2011 and May 2019. Participants were endometrial cancer cases who underwent surgical staging with or without adjuvant treatment (study) and healthy women who came to gynecologic department for annual cervical screening (control). Assessment of QoL was investigated via the structural questionnaire designed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 (Thai version).

Results:

During the period of the study, 94 participants who were diagnosed with endometrial cancer and underwent surgical staging were enrolled. There were 51, 43 and 51 cases in group A (surgery with adjuvant therapy), group B (surgery only) and group C (control), respectively. Control cases were participants who had comparable demographic characteristics and underwent gynecological checkup during the period of study. In part of physical functioning, group B had statistically better scores than group A. Participant in group B and C reported significantly better QoL in part of social functioning than group A. Symptom severity; appetite loss and constipation in group B was statistically less than in group A. Constipation problems in group A and C were comparable. Participants in group C had worse global health status than group A/B.

Conclusion:

Adjuvant treatment with either radiation or chemotherapy had negative impacts on QoL in endometrial cancer survivors. It impacted physical health, social function, appetite loss, and constipation. All endometrial cancer survivors had global health scores better than healthy peers. Thoroughly counseling to endometrial cancer survivors remains an important tool for increasing awareness of treatment complications and lowering psychological emotional stress.

The Evaluation of Intra-Operative Frozen Section Diagnosis Accuracy of Ovarian Tumors; Old Fashioned Not Out of Fashion

Background:

The accuracy of intra-operative decision in confirming ovarian tumor malignancy during the operation is vital. Frozen sections are an important intra-operative tool to determine the provisional diagnosis and appropriate treatment of a tumor.

Study design:

All records of diagnosed ovarian tumor patients who underwent exploratory laparotomy with intra-operative frozen sections request at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital (BAH) between January 2016 and June 2018 were reviewed.

Main outcome measures:

Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of intra-operative frozen and permanent sections were evaluated.

Result:

A total of 150 cases were recruited in this study. The mean age was 45.4 years. The number of benign, borderline and malignant ovarian tumors in this study were 97, 9 and 44 cases, respectively. The overall accuracy was 93.3%. Percentage of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for benign, borderline and malignancy were 98.0/94.7/94.0, 100/88.9/79.6, 94.3/95.0/100, 97.0/55.3/100 and 100/99.3/92.2, respectively.

Conclusion:

The frozen section results yielded accurate diagnosis for rapid intraoperative evaluation of ovarian tumors. Its high accuracy allows for an appropriate surgical plan to be made in a timely manner. Large sizes and suspected mucinous borderline ovarian tumors reduced accuracy factors of frozen sections.

Using Facebook for Ongoing Learning Promotes Higher National Licensing Examination Success

OBJECTIVE

This study proposes Facebook usage as a motivational vehicle for studying block subjects in Problem-Based Learning Curriculum. Facebook page engagement should allow self-motivated medical students the opportunity to review subject materials. Frequent use and practice resulted in better National Licensing Examination step 1 (NLE1) scores amongst frequent users of posted material.

METHODS

The scenarios and exercises were posted on a Facebook page every 2 months after completion of the relevant block. Participants were classified into four groups by frequency of Facebook page usage. Participants completed exit surveys after the NLE1 results were posted. The mean opinion scores of each group were compared using one-way ANOVA. The correlation coefficient of the percentage of the NLE1 success and frequency of page participation was calculated.

RESULT

Most students spent excess of 3 months preparing for the NLE1. The most popular study aid was the MCQ bank. Frequent Facebook page users often preferred self-study and group work compared to "never" users (p < 0.05). Strong positive correlation (r = 0.956) was shown between the frequency of Facebook page usage and the success rate of the NLE1.

CONCLUSION

Facebook study cases allowed self-motivated medical students to periodically review subject materials. Frequent users' regular practice resulted in better passing rates of the NLE1 exam.

Anxiety and Depression in Thai Women with Abnormal Cervical Cytology who Attended Colposcopic Unit in Thammasat University Hospital

Background: Colposcopy is the standard investigation for women with abnormal cervical cytology. Waiting time to colposcopy could impact to psychological distress. Data about anxiety and depression in eastern countries patients were limited. Aim of this investigation was to evaluate anxiety and depression status in Thai women who were waiting for colposcopy compared to women who attended gynecology clinic for cervical cancer screening. Materials and methods: This study was conducted at the outpatient gynecology clinic of Thammasat University Hospital between January 2017 to March 2018. A Total of 200 women were recruited into the study. The cases were divided into the study and control group. Study group consisted of one hundred women with abnormal cervical cytology referred to colposcopy. One hundred of women who attended gynecology clinic for cervical cancer screening was classified as control group. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to determine anxiety in the participants. Results: Total of 200 women who met criteria of the study were recruited. The mean ages of both groups were 40 years old. Both groups were significantly different when it came to their education, 30 and 59 percent of study and control group had education level more than bachelor (p=0.003). The prevalence of anxiety was statistically significantly higher in study group than the control group (15% and 6%, respectively). There was only one case of depression in study. Waiting time and abnormal cervical cytology severity did not affected to anxiety level. Conclusions: Colposcopy and appointment caused anxiety. However anxiety was not associated with waiting time to colposcopy or Pap result’s severity.

Silent High Grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia Diagnosis of Atypical Smear between Conventional and Liquid Based Papanicolaou Smear in Suburban Area of Thailand

Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of silent high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia diagnose in atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) in cytology result between conventional (CPP) and liquid-based cervical cytology (LBP) methods to suggest the proper management for Thai women.Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand between January 2011 and December 2016. Medical records of 28,564 patients who attended for cervical cancer screening were reviewed. Prevalence of silent high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) cytology result was determinedResults: During the study period, 28,564 cases were enrolled. There were 22,552 and 6,012 of CPP and LBP cases, respectively. A total of 644 cases of ASC-US cytology were enrolled. In women with ASC-US in cytology, the mean age was younger than women with negative screening cytology group and approximately 70% were in pre-menopausal status. Prevalence of high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in ASC-US cytology from CPP and LBP were 9.5 and 11.9%, respectively. Ten percent (23/248) of atypical glandular cytology pattern was cancer. One-quarter of them was endometrial cancer.Conclusion: Silent high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in ASC-US cytology and the rate of cancer in atypical glandular cytology pattern were high. We recommended colposcopy for women who had the cervical cytological report as atypical squamous and glandular cytology pattern.

Cervical Cancer Detection between Conventional and Liquid Based Cervical Cytology: a 6-Year Experience in Northern Bangkok Thailand

Objectives:

To determine the prevalence of abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) smear, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2 or higher and cancer between conventional Pap smear (CPP) and liquid based Pap smear (LBP).

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand between January 2011 and December 2016. Data was collected from medical records of participants who attended for cervical cancer screening test. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy for detecting CIN 2 or higher were evaluated by using the most severity of histopathology reports.

Results:

A total of 28,564 cases were recruited. Prevalence of abnormal Pap smear from CPP and LBP were 4.8 % (1,092/22,552) and 5.7 % (345/6,012), respectively. Percentage of unsatisfactory smears in CPP (52.3%) was higher than LBP (40.5%). From CPP and LBP, cervical cancer percentages were 0.2 and 0.1, respectively. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of CPP and LBP for detection cancer were 42.5 vs 26.1%, 99.9 vs 100.0%, 69.8vs 75.0%, 99.7 vs 100.0 % and 99.7 vs 99.7%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology and cancer from CPP and LBP were 4.8/0.2 and 5.7/0.1 percent, respectively. Unsatisfactory smear of LBP was less than CPP. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of CPP and LBP for detection CIN 2 or higher and cancer were comparable.

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer with Endometriosis is not Associated with Menopausal Status: a Co-Association Study at Prapokklao Hospital

Objective: To determine any association between the menopausal status and epithelial ovarian cancer coexisting with endometriosis (EOC-E). In addition, the prevalence and possible risk factors were assessed. Methods: Medical records of 172 women with epithelial ovarian cancer between January 2011 and December 2016 at Prapokklao Hospital were reviewed and divided into two groups: EOC-E defined as the case group and without endometriosis (EOC-NE) as the control group. Results: The proportion of EOC-E was 18% (31/172). There were no significant differences between the two groups in baseline clinical characteristics and presenting symptoms except for history of smoking and abnormal uterine bleeding found more often in EOC-E cases. Most EOC-E were of clear cell histological type followed by endometrioid and serous types (35.5, 25.8 and 22.6 %; respectively). The clear cell type was 8 times more likely in the EOC-E than in the EOC-NE (OR 8.0, 95% CI 2.97-21.89, p-value <0.001) group. Nulliparity and smoking increased risk of EOC-E 2 and 7 times, respectively (OR 2.3, 95%CI 1.03-5.00, p-value 0.041 and OR 7.4, 95%CI 1.18-46.63, p-value 0.032). Conclusions: EOC-E are relatively common. Abnormal uterine bleeding is the only significant presenting symptom in the EOC-E as compared with the EOC-NE group. Endometriosis was a predictive factor for clear cell and endometrioid type I EOC. Menopausal status and age were not associated with a presentation of endometriosis with EOC

Does Endometriosis Hinder Successful Ovarian Debulking Surgery?

Background:

Endometriosis has a significant effect on many aspects of women’s lives, also increasing the risk of ovarian cancer. Although endometriosis is considered as a benign condition, it sometimes behaves like cancer.

Methods:

All medical records of epithelial ovarian cancer patients during January 2011 to December 2016 were reviewed. Recurrent cases were excluded. Data collected included age at diagnosis, parity, marital status, familial history of cancer, menopausal status, weight, height, smoking histroy, contraception, CA 125 level, result of surgery and pathological report.

Results:

One hundred and seventy-two medical records of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) were included. Average age at diagnosis was 52.3 years. Epithelial ovarian cancer coexisting with endometriosis (EAOC) was found in nearly one-fifth of cases. Nullipara and smoking were associated with 2.3 and 8.3 fold higher risk of EAOC development (aOR 2.349, 95%CI 1.012-5.451; aOR 8.26, 95%CI 1.234-55.278; respectively). Age, familial history of cancer and coexistence with endometriosis were factors related to surgical outcome. More of EAOC group had optimal surgery compared to the non-EAOC group (61.3% and 41.8%) with statistical significance.

Conclusion:

Younger age, familial history of cancer and coexistence of endometriosis were factors related to optimal surgery. Success of optimal surgery is greater in EAOC than in non-EAOC patients. Coexistence of endometriosis does not hinder successful ovarian cancer debulking surgery.

Possibility of using superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase as endometriosis biomarkers

Objective

To study the possibility of using superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) as combined preoperative biomarkers for endometriosis.

Participants and methods

Female patients aged between 18 and 45 years old who came to the Gynecology outpatient clinic, Thammasat University Hospital, during September 2013–2016 with the complaint of gynecologic symptoms suspected of endometriosis, and who were positively diagnosed with endometriosis, were included in this study. All patients underwent conservative laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy with histopathological report. The control group consisted of healthy females of reproductive age who came to the outpatient clinic. The plasma SOD and GPx were measured from blood samples with commercial kits. A receiver operating characteristic curve was generated for plasma activity of SOD, GPx, and combined tests. The cutoff values were selected at the most appropriate sensitivity and specificity.

Result

All 36 cases were included in this study. Mean ages of patients in the patient and control groups were 33.1 and 28.6 years old, respectively. SOD and GPx activities of disease and control group were 6.15 and 8.11, 463.9 and 472.34 nmole/min/mL unit, respectively. The sensitivity and 1–specificity of the combined test were calculated at 0.78, with sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value being 68.75, 80.77, 76.50, 69.23, and 80.33, respectively.

Conclusion

A combination testing of SOD and GPx can possibly be used as preoperative biomarker for endometriosis.

Quality of Life in Cervical Cancer Survivors and Healthy Women: Thai Urban Population Study

Background:

To determine a baseline quality of life (QoL) in cervical cancer survivors compared to that of healthy subjects in the tertiary Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand.

Materials and Methods:

The investigation was conducted at the outpatient gynecological department of Thammasat University Hospital between January and June 2016. A total of 192 women were entered into the study (97 cervical cancer survivors; 37 after radical hysterectomy (RH), 43 with concurrent chemoradiation (CRT), and 17 featuring both RH and CRT; and 95 control subjects from the same outpatient department with no history of malignancy). Participant QoL was assessed using a Thai version of the EORTC-QLQ-C30 (European Organization for Research Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life) and a general survey for the assessment of sociodemographic data was also conducted.

Results:

There were significant differences in physical, role, emotional and social functions between cervical cancer survivor and control groups. Global health, fatigue, pain, appetite loss, and financial difficulties also demonstrated statistically significant variation. Cervical cancer survivors treated by RH had higher scores for emotional and social function and global health than the control group. Moreover, they had less appetite loss, fatigue and financial difficulties. However, patients treated with CRT experienced more pain than the control group. All cervical cancer survivors had lower physical function scores than the control group.

Conclusion:

Quality of life in cervical cancer survivors is better than in healthy peers in some domains. Cervical cancer survivors treated with RH may have a better QoL than healthy peers. Early detection for early stage cervical cancer remains most important because treatment in early stages does not cause lowering of the QoL.

Prevalence of abnormal anal cytology in HIV-infected women: a hospital-based study

BACKGROUND

To study the prevalence of abnormal anal cytology by Papanicolaou (Pap) technique in HIV- infected women who attended a HIV clinic at Prapokklao Hospital, Chanthaburi, Thailand.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HIV-infected women who attended a HIV clinic at Prapokklao Hospital from March 2013 to February 2014 were recruited for anal Pap smears. Participants who had abnormal results of equally or over "abnormal squamous/glandular cells of undetermined significance" (ASC-US) were classified as abnormal anal cytology.

RESULTS

A total of 590 anal Pap smears were performed at HIV clinic of Prapokklao Hospital during the study period. There were only 13 patients who had abnormal Pap tests, which were: 11 ASC-US and 2 HSIL (high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion). The prevalence of abnormal anal Pap smears in HIV-infected women who attended HIV clinic at Prapokklao Hospital was 2.2 percent. Percentage of high risk HPV in patients who had abnormal Pap test was 88.9 (8/9).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of abnormal anal Papanicolaou smears in HIV-infected women who attended the HIV clinic at Prapokklao hospital was quite low in comparison to the earlier literature.

Comparative Study of Postoperative Pain between Maylard Incision and Pfannenstiel Incision in Gynecologic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pain has many adverse effects for the patients with laparotomy operation. There are few studies that compare between Maylard and Pfannenstiel incision in term of pain and wound complication after operation.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the postoperative pain and wound complications between the muscle-cutting Maylard incision and the Pfannenstiel incision in women who needed benign gynecologic surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This randomized controlled trial study compared two laparotomy techniques, Maylard and Pfannenstiel method. Ninety cases of benign gynecologic conditions were recruited and randomly assigned to receive either Maylard or Pfannenstiel incision from August 2014 to October2015 at Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was applied to measure postoperative pain. Baseline characteristics of the study groups and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

From the planned 90 recruited cases, there were 81 cases for complete analysis, 41 in Maylard and 40 in Pfannenstiel group. There were no difference in age, body mass index, education level, previous abdominal surgery and type of operation between Maylard and Pfannenstiel group. Duration of operation, type of anesthesia and dosage of analgesic drug were not statistically significant between both groups. Length of surgical wound was longer in Maylard than in Pfannenstiel group (17.27±0.6 vs. 14.13±0.8 cm, p = 0.04). Postoperative pain score (VAS) at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours were not statistically different between two groups. Pain score at 72 hours and 7th day in Maylard group showed significantly less than in Pfannenstiel group (0.51±0.5 vs. 1.10±1.0 p = 0.04, 0.12±0.3 vs. 0.23±0.4, p = 0.01, respectively). The numbers of participants with moderate to severe pain (VAS >4) in Maylard group were less than in Pfannenstiel group at 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours but after that there was no statistically difference. There were no postoperative wound complications such as disruption, infection or hematoma in all participants in this study.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative pain up to 48 hours in both Maylard and Pfannenstiel group showed similar VAS but after 48 hours; the Maylard group showed less pain. Even though the surgical wound length in Maylard group was longer than Pfannenstiel group, numbers of cases with VAS >4 within 24 hours in Maylard were less than in Pfannenstiel group. Postoperative pain up to 48 hours in both Maylard and Pfannenstiel group showed similar VAS but after 48 hours; the Maylard group showed less pain. Even though the surgical wound length in Maylard group was longer than Pfannenstiel group, numbers of cases with VAS >4 within 24 hours in Maylard were less than in Pfannenstiel group.

A Comparative Study of the Spontaneous Labor Rate in Scheduled Elective Cesarean Section at 38 Weeks versus 39 Weeks of Gestation in Parturient with Previous Cesarean Section

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of the different scheduled gestational age for a repeat elective cesarean section (CS) on emergency cesarean section rate and adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with history of previous CS.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A prospective cohort study of singleton pregnant women who had a history of CS and were scheduled for a repeat elective CS to be performed. The cases were divided into two groups of which the elective CS was appointed at 38 or 39 weeks of gestation as study and control groups, respectively. Emergency cesarean section rate, maternal and neonatal complications were defined as main outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 415 scheduled elective repeat cesarean deliveries performed at 38 weeks of gestation or later, 209 were scheduled between 38 0/7 and 38 6/7 weeks (study group), and 206 were scheduled between 39 0/7 and 39 6/7 weeks (control group). Most of the cases had one previous cesarean delivery. The emergency CS rate before schedule in the study group was significantly less than in the control group (15.3% vs. 51%, p<0.001). Spontaneous labor pain was a major factor to have unplanned delivery. The maternal intra-operative complications were significantly increased in women who had emergency cesarean before schedule compared to elective CS on scheduled in 38 weeks group (25% vs. 12.9%, p<0.001) and 39 weeks group (31.4% vs. 14%, p<0.001). The major intra-operative complication was uterine atony. There were no statistically significant differences in maternal post-operative and neonatal complications in scheduled elective CS in 38 and 39-week group. Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTNB) was higher in elective CS at 38 week compared to emergency CS.

CONCLUSION

The emergency CS rate in 39 weeks gestation group was significantly higher than 38 weeks group. The incidence of adverse maternal intra-operative complications was statistically difference with emergency CS when compared to elective CS in case and control groups. Recommendation of elective repeated CS at GA39 weeks may be suitable only under some circumstances. The number of prior CS is one of factors that should be considered.

Efficacy of Delayed versus Immediate Cord Clamping in Late Preterm Newborns following Normal Labor: A Randomized Control Trial

BACKGROUND

Premature neonates are susceptible to anemic problems with low iron storage. Delayed cord clamping (DCC) has been studied and its beneficial value has been supported by existing research in newborns with very low birth weights. But there were only few data pertinent to late preterm infants.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of delayed cord clamping (DCC) as compared with immediate cord clamping (ICC) on the hematocrit level at 48 hours in late preterm neonates after vaginal delivery.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The design consisted of a randomized controlled trial. One hundred pregnant women who were admitted because of preterm labor (GA 34-36(+6) week) in active phase were recruited and allocated into two groups, designated as the ICC and DCC groups. The DCC were defined as the case in which patients underwent the umbilical cord clamping at 120 seconds after birth. At 48 hours after delivery, both the hematocrit (Hct) and microbilirubin (MB) levels of newborns were determined. Also, neonatal and maternal complications were recorded.

RESULT

Eighty-six neonates were analyzed. There were no statistical differences in the baseline data of maternal symptoms and newborns between the two groups. Neonates in the DCC group had a significantly higher hematocrit level than the ICC group (55.4% and 47.6%, respectively: p = 0.02). The MB level in the DCC group was also significantly higher than in the ICC group (9.4% and 8.6 mg %, respectively: p = 0.04). However, phototherapy and length of hospitalization in both groups were not different. There were no serious maternal and fetal complications in either group.

CONCLUSION

The DCC procedure could raise the Hct level in the late preterm newborns without serious adverse effects. But more evidence is needed to explore the possible benefit of this procedure.

Co-Existing Ovarian Mucinous Cystadenocarcinoma with Mature Cystic Teratoma: A Rare Case Report

BACKGROUND

Mature cystic teratoma is the most common benign germ cell ovarian tumor. Malignant transformation is uncommon. The pathology is mostly composed of squamous cell carcinoma. Mucinous cystadenocarcinoma should be differentiated between malignant transformation and the coincidental occurrence.

CASE REPORT

A case of an early stage mucinous ovarian cancer co-existing with mature cystic teratoma at the same ovarian side was reported. A 57-year-old woman presented with incidental palpable pelvic mass for two weeks. Right ovary consisted of multiloculated cyst and mature cystic teratoma. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy for a large ovarian cyst evaluation. Mucinous ovarian cancer was diagnosed as FIGO stage IC3 after operation. Histopathology report showed mucinous cystadenocarcinoma and mature cystic teratoma of the right ovary. There was no additional abdominal abnormality. Immunohistochemistry staining supported the diagnosis of metastatic adenocarcinoma of colon or intestinal type of mucinous ovarian cancer. Further investigation for locating other primary cancer site was then performed. The result was negative. The intestinal-type mucinous ovarian cancer co-existing with mature cystic teratoma of the right ovary was the final histopathological reading. The patient was then started on carboplatin/paclitaxel combination chemotherapy for 6 cycles after surgery. The patient showed complete remission at the end of the chemotherapy treatment.

CONCLUSION

This was a rare case of mucinous ovarian cancer co-existing with mature cystic teratoma. Clinical acumen, immunochemistry staining and metastatic survey investigation played important roles for the final diagnosis.

Prevalence and Risk Assessment of Cervical Cancer Screening by Papanicolaou Smear and Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid for Pregnant Women at a Thai Provincial Hospital

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is the second most common in Thailand, but the mortality rate may be rising yearly. It is a cancer that can be prevented by early screening for precancerous lesions, several methods being available.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalence of abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) smears and lesions with visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) in pregnant women and assess risk factors for this group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study was performed at Prapokklao Hospital, Thailand during April-July 2016. All pregnant women of gestational age between 12-36 weeks who attended an antenatal clinic were recruited. All participants were screened for cervical cancer by Pap smear and VIA. If results of one or both were abnormal, colposcopic examination was evaluated by gynecologic oncologist.

RESULTS

A total of 414 pregnant women were recruited. Prevalence of abnormal Pap smear and VIA were 6.0 and 6.7 percent, respectively. The most common abnormal Pap smear was low grade intraepithelial lesion (LSIL, 44%). Factors associated with abnormal Pap smear in pregnant women were low BMI, multiple partners and being a government officer. In pregnancy, Pap smear had higher sensitivity and specificity than VIA for detection of precancerous cervical lesion. Patients with young coitarche or more than 25 years of active sexual activity were high risk groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of abnormal Pap smear and VIA in pregnant women was 6.0 and 6.7 percent, respectively. Factors associated with abnormal Pap smear were coitarche, years of sexual activity, low BMI, multiple partners and being a government officer.

High Rate of Gangrenous Adnexal Torsion: Dilemma of a Missing Silent Cancer

Background: Adnexal torsion results in ischemia of structures distal to twisted pedicle and acute onset of pain is responsible for about 3% of all gynecologic emergencies. Ovarian torsion classically occurs in a pathological enlarged ovary, as with cancer, but diagnosis remains a challenge. Objective: Our purpose was to evaluate clinical risk factors predictive of torsion with gangrenous adnexa. Material and methods: A retrospective descriptive study and chart review of surgically proven ovarian torsion/adnexal torsion cases at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Prapokklao Hospital, Chanthaburi, Thailand between January 2011 and December 2015 was conducted. Result: Seventy-eight cases were identified. Mean age at presentation was 35.5 years. The average maximum diameter of the ovarian tumors was 10.8 cm. The percentage of gangrenous ovarian cysts in this study was 46.2 (36/78). The precision to determine the pathological site by patient, physician and ultrasonography was 8.5, 24.2 and 83.3 percent, respectively with statistically significant variation. Conclusion: Ovarian/adnexal torsion remains a challenge condition especially in young nulliparous women. Sophisticated investigation does not guarantee ovary preservation. Combining clinical acumen, appropriate tests and detailed consideration may be the best practice at the present time.

Experience of Combined Liquid Based Cervical Cytology and High-Risk HPV mRNA for Cervical Cancer Screening in Thammasat University Hospital

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is the second most common of malignancy found in Thai women. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a major cause. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of HPV infection and association with abnormal cervical cytology in Thai women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted at the Gynecologic Clinic, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand. A total of 2,144 cases who underwent annual cervical cancer screening by co-testing (liquid based cytology and HPV testing, DNA versus mRNA) during the priod from July 2013 to June 2016 were recruited in this study.

RESULTS

Prevalence of positive high risk (HR) HPV DNA and mRNA test were 19.7 and 8.4%, respectively with a statistically significant difference. Majority of cases of abnormal cytology in this study were atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US). In patients with ASC-US, positive HR HPV DNA was greater than in the mRNA group (10.1 and 4.5%, p<0.001). Nonetheless, there was no significant difference in participants with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). HPV mRNA test had slightly lower sensitivity but higher negative predictive value (NPV) than the DNA test to detect abnormal cytology during cervical cancer screening (p<0.001). Both HPV test (DNA and mRNA) had equally efficacy to detect high grade precancerous lesion or higher (CIN 2+).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of HR HPV DNA and mRNA were 19.7 and 8.4 percent, respectively. NPV of HPV mRNA was higher than DNA test. Both tests had equal efficacy to detect CIN 2+ with sensitivity and specificity of 63% vs 55.7% and 83% vs 92%, respectively.

Silent High Grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia in Atypical Smears from Liquid Based Cervical Cytology - Three Years Experience in Thammasat University Hospital

PURPOSE

To study the prevalence of CIN2+ diagnosis in women with atypical Papaniculoau (Pap) smears to suggest appropriate management option for Thai health care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from all patients with liquid based cytology with human papillomavirus (HPV) testing between May 2013 - May 2016 were collected from medical records. Women with atypical cervical Pap smears were recruited. Results for age, HPV testing, HPV 16, 18, 45 and other genotypes tested, colposcopic examination and histopathological assessment were all collected. Atypical smears were defined as atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) and atypical squamous cells cannot be exclude high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H).

RESULTS

A total of 2,144 cases were recruited. Twenty six women with ASC-US on cytology had high risk (HR) HPV detection while eight cases with ASC-H had HR-HPV (40.0% VS 72.7%, p=0.005). Among the 26 women with ASC-US cytology and positive HR-HPV, HPV type 16 (n=8, 30.8%), type 18 (n=1, 3.8%), type 45 (n=1, 3.8%) and other HPV types (n=17, 65.4%) were found. Eight women with ASC-H and positive HR-HPV demonstrated type 16 (n=6, 75%) and other HPV types (n=2, 25%). Fifty seven women with ASC-US had normal colposcopy, CIN1 and CIN2+ at percentages of 80.7 (46/57), 14.0 (8/57) and 5.3 (3/57), respectively. In the ASC-H group, 7 out of 10 women had normal colposcopy and three (30%) had CIN2+ results.

CONCLUSIONS

In women with ASC-US cytology, immediate colposcopy is highly recommended. HPV testing can be performed if colposcopy is not an available option because there was high prevalence (5.3%) of CIN2+ in our findings. ASCCP recommendations for ASC-H that colposcopy should be performed on all ASC-H cases regardless of HPV result are thereby supported by the findings of this investigation.

Clinical Factors Associated with Specimen Adequacy for Conventional Cervical Cytology in Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand

PURPOSE

To study clinical factors related to adequacy of transformation zone (TZ) components in cervical smears.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medical and Papanicolaou (Pap) smear reports from Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand during January to December 2015 were collected. Demographic data was reviewed by attending physicians and impact of clinical factors onTZ adequacy was primary outcome. A total of 3,251 smears were reviewed. Finally, 2,098 smears met The inclusion criteria and enrolled into this study.

RESULTS

Average age and bodyweight of participants in this study were 43.0 years and 60.0 kg, respectively. Ninety seven percent of smears were classified as satisfactory for evaluation according to the Bethesda system 2001. Adequacy (group A) and inadequacy (group B) of TZ were equal in percentage (50.9/46.0). Prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology was 4.4%. Percentages of abnormal Pap smears in group A and B were 7.3 and 1.4, respectively (p<0.001). Factors associated with increased adequacy of TZ were old-age (≥ 50 yr), nulliparity, within 3-months postpartum, history of TZ inadequacy and abnormal smears. Sexually transmitted disease (STD), hormonal usage, previous cryotherapy and smears collected by staff were associated with inadequacy of TZ.

CONCLUSIONS

Collection of cervical specimens should be carefully performed. STD history, hormonal usage and previous cryotherapy are risk factors for TZ inadequate specimens.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding cervical cancer screening among village health volunteers

BACKGROUND

In the years 2014, coverage rates of cervical cancer screening in Nakornnayok province accounted to 76.5%. This was lower than the government's specified goal of 80%. Community health volunteers are members of a Thai healthcare alliance established to help promoting healthcare service communication and collaboration at the primary level. Such village health volunteers (VHVs) are established in most villages.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the knowledge and attitudes of cervical cancer screening among VHVs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The subjects were 128 VHVs from four Nakornnayok sub-districts; namely KlongYai, Chomphol, Buangsan and Suksara, Thailand. The study was conducted from December 2014 to January 2015. The questionnaire was designed to assess the knowledge and attitude of cervical cancer screening provided by the VHVs. In addition, cervical cancer screening coverage rates of each area were collected. The demographic data, scores of knowledge, attitudes, practices and the cervical cancer screening coverage rates were analyzed by one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

The questionnaire reliability was assessed as 0.81. The total knowledge and attitude scores were 10 and 15 points. The mean knowledge scores of KlongYai, Chomphol, Buangsan and Suksara were 6.8, 7.0, 6.5 and 9.0 points, respectively. The VHVs had a high level of overall knowledge about cervical cancer screening. The mean attitude scores were 12.4, 13.2, 13.4 and 13.1 points. VHVs had a positive attitude to the promotion of cervical cancer screening at the overall level. The percentages of VHVs promoting cervical cancer information in respective districts were 72.2, 94.3, 94.9 and 50.0. However, the cervical cancer screening coverage rates were 62.4%, 34.7%, 80.3% and 47.3% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge, attitudes and percentages of promoting information of cervical cancer screening among VHVs in the four sub-districts were high but did not correlate with the cervical screening coverage rates for each area. VHVs needed to understand socio-cultural beliefs of the women in the target population and design suitable strategies to encourage higher cervical screening coverage.

Anal papanicolaou smear in women with abnormal cytology: a thai hospital experience

BACKGROUND

Anal intraepithelial lesions (AIL) are likely to represent a precursor for anal cancer. Women infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may be at higher risk of anal cancer but a screening program for AIL still is not routinely recommended. We here studied the relationship of dysplastic cells from cervical and anal cytology in HIV-infected women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study was conducted in Prapokklao Hospital, Thailand during 2013-2014. Five hundred and ninety nine HIV-infected women were recruited. Participants who had cytological reports of equally or over "abnormal squamous/glandular cells of undetermined significance" (ASC-US) were classified as abnormal cervical or anal cytology. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate correlations between groups.

RESULTS

HIV-infected women with abnormal cervical cytology had 3.8 times more risk (adjusted odd ratio 3.846, 95% confidence interval 1.247-11.862, p-value. 019) for abnormal anal cytology. The major problem of the anal Pap test in this study was the inadequacy of the collected specimens for evaluation (34.4%, 206/599). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of cervical and anal Pap tests were 93.9/12.0, 87.3/96.9, 39.7/21.4, 99.4/94.1 and 88.1/91.4 percent, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Abnormal cervical cytology in HIV-infected women indicates elevated risk for abnormal anal cytology. The sensitivity of the anal Pap test for detection of AIL 2/3 in HIV-infected women was quite low while specificity was excellent. Inadequacy of specimen collection for evaluation was a major limitation. Improvement of sample collection is recommended for future investigations.

Colposcopy Requirement of Papanicolaou Smear after Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASC-US) by Follow-up Protocol in an Urban Gynaecology Clinic, a Retrospective Study in Thailand

BACKGROUND

ASC-US cases are managed according to the current American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) guideline in which a human papillomavirus (HPV) test and repeat Pap smear are performed in the next 1 year. Colposcopy in cases of positive high risk HPV and persistent ASC-US or more in subsequent Pap smear is recommended. The HPV test is more expensive and still not currently a routine practice in Thailand.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the risk factors of persisted abnormal Pap smear and the colposcopic requirement rate in women with ASC-US.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During 2008-2013, this study was conducted in Prapokklao Hospital, Chanthaburi, Thailand. Participants were women who attended gynaecology clinic for cervical cancer screening. Women who had cytological reports with ASC-US were recruited. During the study period, 503 cases were enrolled. Colposcopic requirement was defined as those who were detected with an ASC-US or more in subsequent Pap smears up to 1 year follow-up.

RESULTS

The colposcopic referral rate was 23.2 (85/365) percent at 12 months. Prevalence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2/3 was 3.3 (12/365) percent. Loss follow-up rate of subsequent Pap smear and colposcopic appointment were 27.4 (138/503) and 48.2 (41/85) percent, respectively. There was no invasive cancer. High risk factors for persisted abnormal Pap smears in subsequent test were premenopausal status, HIV infected patients and non-oral contraceptive pills (COC) users.

CONCLUSIONS

Referral rate for colposcopy in women with ASC-US reports was rather high. Loss to follow-up rate was the major limitation. Immediate colposcopy should be offered for women who had high risk for silent CIN.

Postoperative Pain Relief in Major Gynaecological Surgery by Perioperative Parecoxib Administration: Thammasat University Hospital Study

OBJECTIVE

To study postoperative pain relief in major gynaecological surgery by perioperative parecoxib administration in Thammasat University Hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand from October 2013 to May 2014. One hundred and twenty patients who underwent elective gynaecological surgery were randomized assigned to study and control groups. Study group (n = 60) received 40 mg parecoxib and control group (n = 60) received placebo at 1 hour before surgery. The postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) at 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours, frequency of meperidine consumption in 24 hours and side effects of parecoxib were recorded.

RESULTS

VAS of study group after operation at 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours was significantly lower than control group. Meperidine consumption in placebo group was significantly higher than study group (27.50 ± 19.36 and 48.75 ± 28.15 mg, respectively; p < 0.001). There was no side effect from parecoxib in this study.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous postoperativeparecoxib injection could relief pain and reduced meperidine consumption. Parecoxib could be safely used in gynaecological surgery for postoperative pain relief

Bevacizumab, Carboplatin and Paclitaxel Combination Treatment in Advanced Stage Ovarian Cancer: The First Experience in Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growthfactor (VEGF), has been approvedfor concurrent treatment with first line chemotherapy in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer.

CASE REPORT

A case of an advanced stage epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) receiving a combination of bevacizumab, carboplatin andpaclitaxel chemotherapy was reported. A 44-year-old woman was presented with abdominal discomfort and distention for 4 months. Bilateral 12 cm diameter ovarian tumors were diagnosed as FIGO stage IIIc after surgical staging operation. Histopathology report showed the mixed type of serous and endometriod adenocarcinoma. The patient was then started on carboplatin/paclitaxel combination chemotherapy for 6 cycles after surgery every 3 weeks. Bevacizumab (7.5 mg/ m2) was concurrently administered with chemotherapy every 3 weeks startingfrom the 2nd cycle. A complete remission was achieved after the end of the chemotherapy treatment. Bevacizumab was continued for one year after the completion of the standard chemotherapy. Bone marrow suppression, hypertension and proteinuria were not found during Bevacizumab treatment. At bevacizumab treatment completion, a platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer was diagnosed at the two weeks postprogram routine check-up. The patient was counseled to start second line chemotherapy treatment and has yet to come back with her decision.

CONCLUSION

Combination of bevacizumab, carboplatin and paclitaxelfor first line chemotherapy in advanced EOC in this case had no serious side effects and need further study.

Characteristics and health consequences of adolescent sexual assault at Police General Hospital, Thailand

OBJECTIVE

To describe the characteristic and epidemiology ofadolescent sexual assaults and to compare health consequences between adolescent and adult victims.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Retrospective review of sexual assault victims records of those who were examined in sexual assault program in Police General Hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2012.

RESULTS

There were 335 cases ofadolescents sexual assault victims. Most of them were in junior high school (62.4%). Most adolescent sexual assaults were committed by boyfriends (50.3%) and acquaintance/friends (14.7%). The most common place for the assaults was the offender's residence (52.9%). Delayed medical evaluation was common. Only 49.4% attended medical evaluation within 72 hours. Adolescent victims had a higher pregnancy rate than adult victims (9.0% vs. 3.6%), but lower rate of non-genital injuries (14.6% vs. 36.3%). Only labia minora injury of adolescent was significantly lower than adult (9.3% vs. 17.5%) among genital injuries. Hepatitis B infection rate of adolescent was lower than adult (1.2% vs. 4.5%), whereas other types of infection were not different.

CONCLUSION

Thai adolescents had set the unique assault characteristic different from adult victims. Adolescent victims were mainly assaulted by boyfriends at assailant's residence, with higher pregnancy rate than other international reports. Promote education to adolescences is highly recommended to decrease cases of rape and rape-related pregnancy in female adolescent.

Is the correlation between Papanicolaou smear and histopathology results affected by time to colposcopy?

BACKGROUND

Time to colposcopy (TC) after abnormal Pap smears was evaluated for influence on cytohistologic correlation (CHC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study assessed the correlation between TC and CHC of women who had abnormal Pap smears. Colposcopic chart review included participants from 2010- 2013 who attended a colposcopic clinic, Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand.

RESULTS

Four hundred and sixty cases who had abnormal Pap smears were recruited. Pap reports were atypical smears with low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL), high grade SIL and cancer at 339, 114 and 7 cases, respectively. One hundred and twenty four patients underwent loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). A half of the cases were colposcopically examined within 1-2 months after abnormal Pap collection. CHC was 88 percent and not affected at all by TC. Subjects who attended cervical cancer screening from affiliated health providers had shorter TC than those screened in our tertiary hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

Time to colposcopy with abnormal Pap smears conducted at Thammasat University Hospital had a highest frequency of 42 days, in line with the literature. Length of TC does not affect the correlation between Pap and histopathologic reports. A longer waiting period for colposcopy did not alter progression or regression of the disease.

The effectiveness of sublingual or oral administration of misoprostol for cervical ripening before manual vacuum aspiration in first trimester termination of pregnancy: randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of misoprostol sublingual and oral routes before manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) in first trimester termination of pregnancy.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted infirst trimester termination ofpregnancy cases. Eighty cases were recruited and divided into sublingual and oral groups. Both groups were randomized to receive 400 microg misoprostol two hours prior to MVA. Main outcomes were cervical dilatation, operative time, complications, side effects, pain scores, and patient satisfactions.

RESULTS

Sublingual group had significantly more cervical dilatation and shorter operative time than oral group (7.3 +/- 1.5 vs. 5.9 +/- 1.4 mm, p<0.001 and 5.2 +/- 3.3 vs. 7.3 +/- 4.6 min, p = 0.02, respectively). However there were similar side effects, pain scores, and patient satisfactions in two groups. The present study had no uterine perforation, cervical tear hemorrhage, or re-evacuation.

CONCLUSION

Sublingual misoprostol route was more effective for cervical priming prior to MVA in first trimester therapeutic abortion than oral route.

Incidental finding of abnormal cervical pathology in hysterectomy specimens after normal preoperative Papanicolaou smears in Thammasat University Hospital

BACKGROUND

To investigate abnormal cervical histopathology (ACH) from hysterectomy specimens with normal preoperative Papanicolaou (Pap) smears.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medical records from May 2009 to April 2012 were retrospectively reviewed of subjects from whom hysterectomy specimens were taken in Thammasat University Hospital. All had normal preoperative Pap smears. ACH was the primary outcome. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. A total of 483 subjects with an average age of 50.5 years were recruited. Benign cases of enlarged uterus and pelvic mass were present in 94% (430/483). Endometrial and ovarian cancer were found at 6.2 and 4.7%, respectively. In hysterectomy specimens there were 19 (4%) cases of ACH. Silent ACH with benign disease, endometrial and ovarian cancers were 1.2% (5/430), 33.3% (10/30) and 17.4% (4/23), respectively. The negative predictive value (NPV) and false negative rate of Pap smears were 96 and 4%, respectively. ACH in malignant cases were 27.9% (12/43) and 20% (2/10) in adequate (APS) and inadequate (IPS) Pap collection groups, respectively. ACH in benign condition were 0.68% (2/292) and 2.2% (3/138) in APS and IPS, respectively. ACH was more often found in hysterectomy specimens with indication of malignancy than benign conditions with statistical significance. One third of preoperative stage I endometrial cancer cases had cervical involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Silent ACH in normal preoperative Pap smear was 4 %. Inadequate Pap smear collection is still the major problem in this study. Reducing inadequate Pap smear collection could reduce the false negative rate.

Spontaneous uterine rupture at non-cesarean section scar site with placenta percreta in the second trimester: a case report

BACKGROUND

Uterine rupture was a common occurrence at previously cesarean-sectioned scar Early sign ofuterine rupture was a severe fetal bradycardia.

CASE REPORT

A 30-year-old, 3 gravida, 1 para woman was presented with an acute abdominal pain and hypovolemic shock. Her gestational age was estimated at 18 weeks by emergency pelvic ultrasound. She had a lower segment scar from a previous caesarean section. Initially, alive intrauterinepregnancy with massive hemoperitoneum was a provisional diagnosis. During exploratory laparotomy, a ruptured of the right uterine fundus was found with placenta percreta. Hysterectomy was performed. Fetal weight was 450 grams, APGAR score 0, 0 and the fetus could not survive. The patient was discharged on the 4th day after surgery in healthy condition.

CONCLUSION

Uterine rupture is a catastrophic kituation. Severefetal bradycardia might be an early sign. This case demonstrates the importance ofclinical judgment based on clinical acumen.

Maylard incision in gynecologic surgery: 4-year experience in Thammasat University Hospital

OBJECTIVE

To present the results of Maylard incisionfor gynecologic surgery in Thammasat University Hospital during the past four years.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A retrospective study of gynecologic surgery performed via the Maylard muscle cutting incision compare to Pfannenstiel muscle splitting and midline incision. Data came from subjects who underwent gynecologic surgey at Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand friom January 2010 to December 2013.

RESULTS

In the period of 4 years, there were 283 cases of elective surgery that performed via Maylard, Pfannenstiel and midline incision by the single experience gynecologic surgeon team. One hundred and six cases were performed via Maylard incision technique. The remaining 59 and 118 cases were performed via Pfannenstiel and midline incision technique, respectively. Two-thirds and one-thirds of cases underwent hysterectomy and conservative surgery, respectively. Benign conditions were the major indicationfor surgery at the percentage of 83.4. Operative results were not significantly different from well-known midline and Pfannenstiel incision in terms of blood loss, time to first meal and postoperative pain. Operative time in Maylard incision was longer than in Pfannenstiel incision. Length of stay in Maylard incision was longer than Pfannenstiel but shorter than midline incision. Overall complications (eoperation, bowel injuries, urinary bladder injuries and blood transfusion rate) were not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

Maylard incision provides similar operative results with midline and Pfannenstiel technique. Even though it takes more time for abdominal entry but it gives more operative exposure than Pfannenstiel incision. In the woman with previous low transverse scar and gynaecologic surgery is needed, Maylard incision could be an optional technique that provides cosmetic and successfud results. Hand on training for Maylard incision from their mentors should be encouraged to more practice.

See-and-treat approach to cervical intraepithelial lesions in HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Medical Center

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the overtreatment rate with the see and treat approach in the management of women with abnormal cervical cytology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of patients with abnormal cervical cytology who underwent S and T at MSMC between January 2008 and December 2012 was conducted. Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), histological results, cytology and colposcopic impression were analyzed to evaluate overtreatment rate, cyto-histologic correlation and related factors.

RESULTS

Average age of S and T cases was 42 years. Ninety seven percents were referred from affiliated health care providers. The study revealed 83.2% patients had HSIL or higher from cervical cytology. Correlation between HSIL and final histology was relatively low at 75% compared to other studies. Overtreatment rate was 28%.

CONCLUSIONS

S and T was done in 197 patients in a tertiary care health facility with patient satisfaction. Overtreatment occurred, but the rate can be reduced with appropriate recommendations. HSIL Pap smears should be reexamined before S and T while low grade and lesser colposcopic impression groups should obtain conventional colposcopic approach for patient future reproductive benefit.

Silent abnormal placentation linkage to peripartum hysterectomy: Thammasat University Hospital 6-year study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence, indications, types and complications of peripartum hysterectomy at Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A retrospective peripartum hysterectomy (PH) study. Data came from parturient who delivered at Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand between January 2007 and December 2012.

RESULTS

In the period of 6 years, there were 37 cases of PH among 28,023 parturient. The overall prevalence of PH was 1.32 per 1,000 deliveries with average parturientage of 30. Nineteen hysterectomies were performed after vaginal delivery (1.1/1,000) and the remaining 18 hysterectomies were performed after cesarean section (1.67/1,000). Seven cases (18.9%) were performed as subtotal and the remaining 30 cases (81.1%) as total hysterectomy Major indication of PH was uterine atony (75.7%, 28/37) followed by abnormal placentation (10.8%, 4/37) and uterine rupture (5.4%, 2/37). From hysterectomy specimens, placenta accreta, placenta increta and placenta percreta were found in 5, 3, and 3 cases, respectively. Two cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia were later discovered from hysterectomy specimens. Three cases of placentapercreta were associated with pre-operative diagnosis of placenta adherent, uterine rupture and placenta previa. The average estimated blood loss was 2,416 ml. The overall surgical complication rate was 35.1% (13/37). The rate of reoperation, maternal death, wound infection, gut obstruction and lung complications were 16.2, 8.1, 2.7, 2.7 and 2.7 percent, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Peripartum hysterectomy is a major hazardous procedure carrying a high mortality and morbidity rate. In this study, maternal mortality was 8.1%. Silent abnormal placentation was found in 21.2 percent (7/33) of hysterectomy specimen.

Misoprostol for cervical ripening prior to manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) in abnormal uterine bleeding: double blinded randomized controlled trialt

OBJECTIVE

To study the effectiveness of sublingual misoprostol for cervical ripening before MVA in women aged between 35 and 55 years old.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Women aged between 35 and 55 years old who had indications for endometrial sampling were recruited. Exclusion criteria were gross pathology of cervix, pregnancy, allergy to misoprostol, and abnormal coagulopathy. Eighty women who had indication for MVA were then assigned by randomization (block of four). Participants were treated with either sublingual 200 microg of misoprostol (study group) or placebo (controlled group) for cervical priming at two hours before procedure. The largest diameter of the Hegar's dilator through internal so without any resistance before MVA was the primary collected data. Secondary data were operating time, immediate pain score, satisfactory score, complications, and side effects.

RESULTS

Mean age of misoprostol and controlled group were 44.8 +/- 5.2 and 45.5 +/- 5.0 years old, respectively. One third of both groups had previously experienced uterine curettage. The initial cervical diameter before MVA of individuals receiving misoprostol and controlled group were 6.9 +/- 2.0 and 5.5 +/- 2.4 mm, respectively. The MVA time in misoprostol group was significantly shorter than controlled group (5.1 +/- 1.7 vs. 8.0 +/- 3.9 min, p < 0.001). The additional analgesia was not different in both groups. Side effect before MVA were more significantly found in misoprostol group (p = 0.001). Lower post MVA pain and satisfactory score were better reported in misoprostol group than placebo's (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Two hundred micrograms of sublingual misoprostol administration prior to MVA gave significantly effective result of cervical priming. Satisfactory and pain scores were more favorable in misoprostol group with manageable side effects.

Major complication of gynaecological laparoscopy in Police General Hospital: a 4-year experience

OBJECTIVE

To determine the major-complication rate of gynecological laparoscopy in Police General Hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A retrospective and descriptive analysis of medical records from 423 women who underwent gynecological laparoscopy in Police General Hospital was conducted.

RESULTS

Four hundred twenty three women were recruited between January 2007 and December 2010. One-third of subjects had history of previous gynecological surgery. Major complication rate was 2.84% (12/423). Urinary bladder, ureter, bowel, and vesico-vaginal fistula injury were 0.95% (4), 0.71% (3), 0.95% (4), and 0.23% (1), respectively. The conversion rate to exploratory laparotomy was 4.7% (20). There was no death in subject who had serious complication in this study. The operative time trended to decline in minor operation but not changed in major and advanced operation. Two-third of major complication was intraoperative diagnosed and repaired.

CONCLUSION

The major complication rate was 2.84%. The urologic and bowel injury are the common complications.

A 1-year experience with liquid-based and conventional papanicolaou smear in Thammasat University Hospital

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of abnormal Pap smears as detected by liquid-based (LBP) and conventional (CPP) techniques in women who were patients in the gynecologic clinic, Thammasat University Hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Retrospective analysis of cervical cancer screening, histopathological findings and operative procedures was done between January 2009 and December 2009. Of the 6,332 participants who underwent gynecological examination and cervical screening and had a Pap smear result as atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance or worse would be performed a further colposcopic examination.

RESULTS

A total of 6,332 women were screened for cervical cancer in the one year period. A total of 169 abnormal Pap smears were found. Of 497 (8%) and 5,835 (92%) women were screened by LBP and CPP, respectively. The mean age of patients was 39.45 years old (14-90) and 1,550 (24.5%) women were post menopausal. The Prevalence of abnormal Pap smears was 4.0 and 2.6% in the LBP and CPP groups, respectively. Among LBP group, patients with atypical smear and LSIL (low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) were 11 (2.29%) and 9 (1.8%), respectively. While CPP group, patient with atypical smear, LSIL, HSIL (high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion) and cancer were 73 (1.25%), 49 (0.84%), 25 (0.43%) and 2 (0.03%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of abnormal Pap smear in women who attended gynecologic clinic of Thammasat University Hospital was 4.0% and 2.6 % per LBP and CPP group, respectively. There was no significant difference in the incidence of atypical smear and false positive result between LBP and CPP.

Failed conservative treatment of synchronous primary cancer of endometrium and ovary in a young Thai woman: a case report

A case of well differentiated endometriod adenocarcinoma of the endometrium with a synchronous endometriod and clear cell adenocarcinoma of both ovaries was reported. Recently, a 28-year-old woman presented with vaginal bleeding was diagnosed to have only FIGO stage IaG1 (FIGO 2000) cancer of the endometrium. After 3 months of high dose progestin treatment, 15 cm bilateral ovarian tumors later diagnosed as FIGO stage IIIa ovarian cancer (mixed endometriod and clear cell adenocarcinoma) were detected, and later surgically removed. The patient then was started on Placitaxel/Carboplatin combination chemotherapy for 6 cycles after surgery. The synchronous cancers of endometrium and ovary are usually presented in woman with median age of 50 with obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. These low grade tumors and better prognosis are the norm in contrast to the authors' case with clear cell component and higher stage of ovarian cancer in young lean Thai woman.

Prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology by liquid based cytology in the antenatal care clinic, Thammasat University Hospital

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology by liquid based cytology (LBC) in pregnant women who attended the antenatal care clinic at Thammasat University Hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

LBC was performed on specimens from the collecting vial containing preserved cell solution (Cytyc, Boxborough, MA) in pregnant women who attended antenatal care at the antenatal care clinic, Thammasat University Hospital between March and July 2010. One hundred forty three pregnant women were recruited in the present study. All cytological reports were reviewed by senior cytopathologists for accurate diagnosis using the Bethesda System 2001 criteria. Patients with abnormal results as "abnormal squamous/glandular cells of undetermined significant" or more over were referred for colposcopic examination.

RESULTS

One hundred forty three pregnant women participated in the present study. The average age was 27.09 years. There were 10 abnormal Pap smear results with four, five, and one cases of ASC-US, LSIL and HSIL respectively The prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology in this investigation was 7% with 0.7% high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplacia. Only 6% of participants had the correct understanding of the necessity of Pap smear testing. Thirty-one percent of multiparous pregnant women in the present study had no previous Pap smear screening. The majority of participants had coitarche before the age of 20.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of abnormal cervical cytology in pregnant patients attending the antenatal care clinic at Thammasat University Hospital was 7%. The cervical cytology and related education were highly recommended in antenatal care clinic to increase cervical cancer screening coverage among reproductive age women.

Transvaginal color Doppler study of uterine artery: is there a role in chronic pelvic pain?

AIM

To determine the value of transvaginal color Doppler study of uterine artery and investigate the differences in blood flow of uterine artery among women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP).

MATERIAL & METHODS

A total of 50 female patients were recruited. The study group consisted of 25 women with CPP of possible gynecological origin. Twenty-five women without CPP made a control group. All women were examined using transvaginal color Doppler ultrasonogram after negative finding of pelvic examination. The mean pulsality index (PI) and resistant index (RI) of the uterine arteries were recorded and compared.

RESULTS

The mean ages were 36.6 ± 10.6 and 32.0 ± 6.7 years in the study group and control group, respectively. The duration of pain ranges from 6-48 months (mean, 14.8). The mean PI and RI values of the uterine arteries in patients with CPP were significantly lower than in the control group; PI = 2.12 ± 0.78, 2.76 ± 0.84 and RI = 0.79 ± 0.19, 0.89 ± 0.05, respectively (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Doppler flow indices demonstrated significant increase of uterine arteries vascularization in CPP women related to pelvic causes. Transvaginal ultrasound with noninvasive Doppler study could be a useful primary investigation for CPP women, especially when financial resource is an issue.

Can self vaginal douching for high risk HPV screening replace or assist efficacy of cervical cancer screening?

OBJECTIVE

To study the accuracy of self vaginal douching and collection for HPV types 16, 18, 31 and 33 in women visiting Thammasat Hospital for the explicit purpose of cervical screening.

METHODS

A pelvic examination and Pap smear were performed for all women who came for cervical screening. Specimens were also collected by self vaginal douching before cervical screening and sent to the cell and molecular biology laboratory for analysis of human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16, 18, 31 and 33 using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

HPV prevalence was 3.6% overall from 250 women in this study. Twenty-four (9.6%) women had an abnormal cytology screening result. No cancer was found. Four women had a high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) and 14 had a low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) from colposcopic biopsy. Self vaginal douching for HPV 16, 18, 31 and 33 was used to predict abnormal Pap smear. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 12.5%, 97.5%, 33.3% and 91.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

From our analysis of self-vaginal douching for HPV detection using cases from Thammasat university hospital, it cannot replace the Pap smear.