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Introduction: Recommendations for the management of patients with gynecological cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic period., Material and Method: Recommendations based on the consensus conference model., Results: In the case of a COVID-19 positive patient, surgical management should be postponed for at least 15 days. For cervical cancer, the place of surgery must be re-evaluated in relation to radiotherapy and Radio-Chemotherapy-Concomitant and the value of lymph node staging surgeries must be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For advanced ovarian cancers, neo-adjuvant chemotherapy should be favored even if primary cytoreduction surgery could be envisaged. It is lawful not to offer hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy during a COVID-19 pandemic. In the case of patients who must undergo interval surgery, it is possible to continue the chemotherapy and to offer surgery after 6 cycles of chemotherapy. For early stage endometrial cancer, in case of low and intermediate preoperative ESMO risk, hysterectomy with bilateral annexectomy associated with a sentinel lymph node procedure should be favored. It is possible to consider postponing surgery for 1 to 2 months in low-risk endometrial cancers (FIGO Ia stage on MRI and grade 1-2 endometrioid cancer on endometrial biopsy). For high ESMO risk, it ispossible to favor the MSKCC algorithm (combining PET-CT and sentinel lymph node biopsy) in order to omit pelvic and lumbar-aortic lymphadenectomies., Conclusion: During COVID-19 pandemic, patients suffering from cancer should not lose life chance, while limiting the risks associated with the virus., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Venous thromboembolic events (VTE), defined by deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, are potentially serious complications after gynecologic surgery. Without thromboprophylaxis, they are common and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Conversely, poorly adapted prophylaxis can be hazardous. Risk factors related to the patients and to the types of surgery have been identified and can be used to adapt the prophylaxis. Several recommendations have been proposed; however, no clear consensus exists. This article reviews the pathophysiology and specific risk factors of post-gynecologic surgical VTE and provides comprehensive and practical recommendations for perioperative thromboprophylaxis in gynecology, based on various international recommendations., Competing Interests: Les auteurs n’ont declare aucun conflit d’interets en relation avec cet article.

Iatrogenic ureteral lesions may occur after any pelvic surgery. They are severe and can affect renal function and even vital prognosis. This study aimed to determine the clinical aspects and the therapeutic approaches of this injury. We conducted a retrospective study of six patients with iatrogenic ureteral lesions following gynecologic or obstetric surgery whose data were collected in the Department of Urology in Kairouan on a period of 4 years (2012-2016). The average age of our patients was 46 years. They were all multiparous. Clinical symptoms were variable depending on the type of lesion. Intravenous urography is very useful for diagnosis. It was performed in 4 cases showing abnormalities. Treatment was based on the insertion of a catheter in one case and on 5 uretero-vesical reimplantations. The postoperative course was marked by a nephrectomy. Iatrogenic ureteral lesions have become a rarity. They are correlated with the degree of medicalization in the country. Gynecological and obstetric surgery is the main cause of iatrogenic ureteral lesions. Prognosis is conditioned by early diagnosis and the anatomic condition of the ureter.

Introduction: Bladder and ureteral lesions are the most common urologic complications occurring during pelvic surgery with 1% and 0.5% to 3%, respectively. These lesions are rarely recognized intraoperatively and pose a major problem to urologists, gynecologists, and general surgeons., Objective: To study the factors favoring urologic complications following pelvic surgery at the University Hospital Point-G., Patients and Method: We conducted a retrospective study at the University Hospital Point-G between 2006 and 2015. It involved 23 patients with a whole urological lesion following pelvic surgery. These patients underwent a clinical and para-clinical examination (intravenous urography, methylene blue test) to confirm the urological lesion and to determine its management., Results: The average age of our patients was 32.00 years with extremes of 18 and 40 years old. The leakage of urine was found in 82.6% (19/23). Interventions that caused urologic injury were: caesarean section 52.2% (12/23), hysterectomy 30.4% (7/23), as well as a caesarean section and hysterectomy 17.4% (4/23). Methylene blue was performed in 19 patients, it was positive in 52.2% (12/23) and intravenous urography (IVU) in 7 patients. The lesions encountered were: retrotrigonal fistula vesico-vaginal 10 cases, vesico-vaginal fistula under trigonal 2 cases, uretero-vaginal fistula 7 cases, and bilateral ureteral ligation 4 cases. Fistulorraphy was performed in 52.2% followed by direct ureterovesical reimplantation. The postoperative outcome was satisfactory in 100% of cases with obtaining a good bladder tightness. The average duration of hospitalization was 12 days (+/- 4 days)., Conclusion: Pelvic surgery results in urological injuries. Caesarean section and hysterectomy are contributing factors. Vesico-vaginal fistula or ureteral lesions are common., (Le comitée de rédaction se réserve le droit de revoyer aux auteurs avant toute soumission à l'avis des lecteurs les manuscrits qui ne seraient pas conformes à ces modalités de présentation. En outre il leur conseille de sonserver un examplaire du manuscrit, des figures et des tableaux.)

The legalization of abortion in France allowed to disappear almost maternal deaths caused by induced abortions. Nevertheless, the practice of abortion in a medical framework is encumbered with a number of immediate complications. Similarly, the late consequences of the practice of surgical abortion have generated an abundant literature, which it is important to analyse, both to meet the legitimate concerns of patients as to prevent any spread of false ideas under the influence of movements opposed to abortion., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Endometriosis is a common condition in women, whose main repercussions are painful symptoms. In addition, it was shown that endometriosis was a major cause of infertility and various obstetric complications could be related to this pathology. Uterine rupture is a rare but serious complication whose incidence tends to decrease with the screening of women at risk, however, its fetal, maternal morbidity and mortality causes remains important. We were confronted with a case of posterior uterine rupture in a patient of 36 years, primipare term exceeded in immediate postpartum period. The patient's primary antecedent of uterine surgery torus was responsible for infertility endometriosis. The outcome was favorable for the mother, after a surgical treatment by laparotomy, and for the child. In the literature, two cases have been reported of uterine rupture after endometriosis surgery, which is why we found it interesting to report this rare case. Given the increase in surgical management of this disease, it seems relevant to ask whether, in the future, we should be more vigilant in monitoring pregnancy for these women., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: The main aim of this study is to present the impact on the sexuality of patients after prolapse repair by a vaginal approach using the Elevate™ kit. Secondary objectives include the evaluation of the quality of life and presentation of anatomical results and complications., Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective unicentric study of 177 patients with symptomatic urogenital prolapse, repair from 2009 to 2013, using anterior and/or posterior Elevate™ kit. Assessment sexuality was performed using a validated questionnaire, the PISQ-12. Anatomical outcomes and quality of life were assessed using the classification POP-Q and questionnaires PFDI20 and PFIQ-7 respectively., Results: Response to the questionnaire was 53.1 % with a mean follow-up of 29 months (8-60). Forty-six patients were sexually (49 %) active after the procedure. The average score of postoperative questionnaire PISQ-12 was 34.5/48. De novo dyspareunia rate is 10.8 %. The anatomic success rate was 90 %, the exposure rate was 2.8 % and the retraction rate was 2.2 %. No patient with de novo dyspareunia had postoperative complication., Conclusion: The Elevate™ kit is associated with satisfactory functional and anatomical results. De novo dyspareunia rate is "acceptable" compared to the literature data., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To assess at 6 months the efficiency, the safety and the satisfaction of a lightweight polypropylene mesh used for the transvaginal repair of cystocele by bilateral anterior sacrospinous ligament fixation (NUVIA™ SI)., Materiel and Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed from January 2014 to June 2015. Preoperative assessment included an evaluation using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system (POP-Q) and 3 questionnaires about symptoms, quality of life and quality of sex life (PFDI-20, PFIQ7, PISQ-12). Results were evaluated by a composite criteria: Ba≤0, absence of bulge sensation and absence of reoperation for cystocele recurrence. Secondary objectives were to assess the complications rates and patient's satisfaction., Results: In 10 months, 16 patients, with a mean age of 61.9±8.8years, were included and evaluated by an independent observator at 6months. Four patients were sexually active before surgery and 5 at 6 months. Results were optimal in 93.75% cases (15/16) with one intraoperative injury (bladder injury) and one postoperative complication (increase of preoperative dyspareunia). Satisfaction rate was 93.75% (15/16) and questionnaires PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 were statistically improved (P<0.0001 and P=0.0013). Three patients had a reintervention but not about anterior wall prolapse (section of a suburethral sling for urinary retention, suburethral sling exposure and cure of stress urinary incontinence)., Conclusion: At short term, transvaginal mesh repair by anterior sacrospinous ligament fixation with NUVIA™ presents 93.75% optimal result with one case of increased dyspareunia and 3 reoperations which don't concern anterior wall (urinary outcomes)., Level of Evidence: 4., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Deep pelvic endometriosis surgery may need substantial excisions, which in turn expose to risks of injury to the pelvic nerves. To limit functional complications, nerve-sparing surgical techniques have been developed but should be adapted to the specific multifocal character of endometriotic lesions. The objective was to identify the anatomical areas where the pelvic nerves are most at risk of injury during endometriotic excisions., Methods: The Medline and Embase databases have been searched for available literature using the keywords "hypogastric nerve or hypogastric plexus [Mesh] or autonomic pathway [Mesh], anatomy, endometriosis, surgery [Mesh]". All relevant French and English publications, selected based on their available abstracts, have been reviewed. Five female adult fresh cadavers have been dissected to localize the key anatomical areas where the pelvic nerves are most at risk of injury., Results: Six anatomical areas of high risk for pelvic nerves have been identified, analysed and described. Pelvic nerves can be damaged during the dissection of retrorectal space and the anterolateral rectal excision. Furthermore, before an uterosacral ligament excision, a parametrial excision, a colpectomy or a dissection of the vesico-uterine ligament, the hypogastric nerves, splanchnic nerves, inferior hypogastric plexus and its efferent pathways must be mapped out to avoid injury. The distance between the deep uterin vein and the pelvic splanchnic nerves were measured on four cadavers and varied from 2.5cm to 4cm., Conclusion: Six key anatomical pitfalls must be known in order to limit the functional complications of the endometriotic surgical excision. Applying nerve-sparing surgical techniques for endometriosis would lead to less urinary functional complications and a better short-term postoperative satisfaction., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background: Ureteral wounds are rare with an incidence of 0.5 to 1% of pelvic surgeries. Their supports and their prognosis remain dependant of the period of support and the level of ureteral lesion. The importance of early treatment reduces morbidity and improves patient prognosis., Methods: A retrospective study from October 2003 to June 2014 was performed in a university hospital using a systematic chart review of patients' urology, digestive surgery, vascular surgery and gynecology., Results: Forty-six wounds were found in 43 patients. The majority of the ureteral wound was found at the pelvic ureter, i.e. 69.6% of the study population (n=32). The main cause was gynecological surgery (n=25). In the simple wound group, endoscopic treatment was effective in nearly 90% of cases (n=6). In the other two groups, the efficacy was only 30% and imposed a surgical treatment as second-line., Conclusion: The management is based primarily on early detection or intraoperative, and on a correct initial knowledge of the location and size of the lesion. Endoscopic treatment can in most cases treated with a simple and minimally invasive operation an ureteral wound with nearly 90% success rate. In more complex wounds, endoscopy remains a step in the management with about 30% success rate in our study., Level of Evidence: 5., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)

Objective: To provide clinical practice guidelines from the French college of obstetrics and gynaecology (CNGOF), based on the best evidence available, concerning the surgical approach, the vaginal suture method, the surgeon's experience and morcellation to avoid complications with hysterectomy for benign gynaecological disease., Material and Methods: English and French review of literature about complications with hysterectomy for benign gynaecological disease, excluding cancer., Results and Conclusion: For benign gynaecological disease, vaginal (VH) or laparoscopic (LH) hysterectomy are recommended (grade B). In case of big uterus, VH or LH are recommended (grade C). VH is not contraindicated in nulliparous (Grade C). VH is not contraindicated in case of previous caesarean (grade C). In obese women, VH and LH are recommended (grade C). It should be recommended to perform at least 30 hysterectomies during learning curve (grade C). Hysterectomy should be performed by surgeon doing at least 10 hysterectomies each year (grade C). No vaginal suture method is recommended (grade C). It is recommended to assess cancer risk before (histological sample and/or imagery) when morcellation is planned (expert opinion)., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

This document has been archived because it contains outdated information. It should not be consulted for clinical use, but for historical research only. Please visit the journal website for the most recent guidelines.

Objectives: To assess the interest of robotic-assisted laparoscopy in the context of deep infiltrating endometriosis and to investigate perioperative results., Patients and Methods: From November 2008 to April 2012, 164 women with stage IV endometriosis who underwent robotic-assisted laparoscopy (DA VINCI Intuitive Surgical System(®)) were included by eight international participating clinical centers. Patients were divided in 4 groups according to the localization of the nodule(s): rectum (n=88), bladder (n=23), ureter and uterosacral ligaments (n=115) et hysterectomy (n=28). We evaluated the procedures performed, the duration of intervention, the complications, the recurrence and the impact on fertility., Results: In the rectum group, there was a laparotomy conversion, 2 sutured rectal injuries and a red cells blood transfusion. In the bladder group, there was a vesicovaginal hematoma and a prolongated intermittent self-catheterization. In the ureter and uterosacral ligaments group, there was 2 ureteral fistulas and there was no complication in the hysterectomy group., Discussion and Conclusion: This study is the largest series published in the literature on robotic-assisted laparoscopy for deep infiltrating endometriosis. The interest of robotic-assisted laparoscopy in deep infiltrating endometriosis seems to be promising while no increase in surgical time, blood loss, and intra- and postoperative complications were observed., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Background: Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is a recent technic of minimally invasive surgery that arouses a growing interest due to its potential benefits in terms of pain and cosmetic. However, in gynecology as well as in other surgical specialties, preliminary results seem to be controversial. Its feasibility and interest by comparison with conventional laparoscopy (CL) have not been confirmed by randomized multicenter studies., Objectives: Compare in gynecological surgery, feasibility and surgical outcomes (conversion rate and complications, postoperative pain, duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, appearance and cost) between SILS and CL., Patients and Methods: For this, a review of the literature from a PUBMED and Medline databases was conducted. The clinical cases and series with fewer than 10 patients were excluded. Eligible data were compared and analyzed., Results: A total of 46 studies including five prospective randomized were studied in gynecology. Conversion rates and complications appear identical to those of the CL. The learning curve is also comparable. The technique is not standardized and some ergonomic problems are described. Operating time and duration of hospitalization seems to be comparable. The postoperative pain assessment found conflicting results. The cosmetic results are in favor of the single incision laparoscopy. Finally, the cost is higher., Conclusions: According to the literature, the single incision laparoscopy seems feasible and safe, with better cosmetic results. But the cost is increased and associated with no benefit in terms of pain, operating time and duration of hospitalization. Beyond cosmetics results, further randomized studies are needed to identify a possible benefit., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Genital prolapse is a functional pathology presenting with numerous urinary, genito-sexual, and anorectal symptoms. These symptoms are responsible for an alteration of the quality of life, sometimes associated to a real anxiety-depressive syndrome. Because of these complex intricacies, the management of these disorders became multidisciplinary. Tools to measure the impact of prolapse symptoms on the quality of life became a necessity. Such instruments should allow a correlation of the functional symptomatology at the anatomic stage, raise a surgical indication based on the functional disturbance and evaluate the effectiveness and tolerance of the various therapeutic procedures. Two validated self-questionnaires in French (short versions of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory [PFDI-20] and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire [PFIQ-7]) are presently available. Moreover, the physician has the legal obligation to provide detailed presurgical information on frequent and severe hazards, expected benefits, functional consequences, therapeutic alternatives and the consequences of nonintervention. Before surgery takes place, the surgical approach, the benefit of using synthetic prostheses, the possibility of uterine and/or ovarian conservation, and some risky conditions such as smoking, obesity and estrogen deficiency should be discussed.

Objectives: To describe the safety and efficacy of single-port access for laparoscopic surgery in gynecology with conventional laparoscopic instruments., Patients and Methods: In this prospective study, we report our experience with 90 patients who underwent Single Port Access (SPA) laparoscopic surgery for gynecologic pathology with the use of the SILS(®) Port Multiple Instrument Access Port (Covidien(®), Mansfield, MA)., Results: We realised 15 ovarian cystectomies, 30 salpingo-oophrectomies with 14 one side, 9 lysis of adhesions, 7 distal tubal repairs, 6 salpingectomy, 8 other procedures. The mean surgical time is 47 min (25-120). One conversion to conventional laparoscopy and one in laparotomy were performed. The mean duration stay is 2 days [1-3]., Discussion and Conclusion: SPA in gynecology is feasible with conventional laparoscopic instruments. SPA surgery represents the newest frontier in minimally invasive surgery., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To analyze the results of, and to evaluate, gynaecologic laparoscopy in Dakar Teaching Hospital., Methods: This exploratory and descriptive study deals with a continuous series of 128 gynaecologic laparoscopies carried out between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2009. In each operative case, sociodemographic and clinical parameters,operative data, and outcomes were studied., Results: Laparoscopies represented 14.37% of the programmed operative activities. The average age of the patients was 32 years,and the average parity was 1.2. The interventions were most frequently undertaken because of infertility (78.9%). A history of pelvic infections was found in 39.8% of the cases. The most frequent pathologies were tubal anomalies (70% of infertility cases) followed by ovarian cysts (10.1%) and endometriosis. The operative interventions included adhesiolysis in 35.1% of cases,and tubal surgery in 30.4%. A conversion, necessary in 7% of cases, was necessitated by the extent of adhesions (3 cases),the treatment of an associated pathology (4 cases), or a technical difficulty (2 cases).The main complications were vascular wounds and uterine perforations. The average operating times for diagnostic and operative laparoscopies were 56 minutes and 107 minutes,respectively. Outcomes were simple in 91.8% of cases. During the immediate postoperative period, a death occurred due to an acute pneumopathy. The average length of hospital stay was 3 days. We observed a pregnancy rate of 4.6%. Assisted reproduction was indicated in 28.7% of infertility cases., Conclusion: Given its many advantages, diagnostic and operative laparoscopy must be integrated and developed by gynaecology departments in developing countries. This necessity is emphasized by the prevalence of tubal infertility of infectious origins, which, if diagnosed and treated early by laparoscopy,could have a better prognosis.

This paper is the second of a two-part publication. The initial paper provided a comprehensive overview of the evidence on adhesions to allow gynaecological surgeons to be best informed on adhesions, their development, impact on patients, health systems and surgical outcomes. There is rising evidence that surgeons can take important steps to reduce the burden of adhesions. In this second paper, we review the various strategies to reduce the impact of adhesions, improve surgical outcomes and provide some practical proposals for action on adhesions. As well as improvements in surgical technique, developments in adhesion-reduction strategies and new agents offer a realistic possibility of reducing adhesion formation and improving outcomes for patients. They should be considered for use particularly in high-risk surgery and in patients with adhesiogenic conditions. Further research into new strategies to prevent adhesions more effectively through an improved surgical environment, new and combination devices and pharmacological agents should be encouraged. Formal recommendations would ensure better prioritisation of adhesion-reduction within the French health system. Patients should also be better informed of the risks of adhesions., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Adhesions are the most frequent complications of abdominopelvic surgery, causing important short- and long-term problems, including infertility, chronic pelvic pain and a lifetime risk of small bowel obstruction. They also complicate future surgery with increased morbidity and mortality risk. They pose serious quality of life issues for many patients with associated social and healthcare costs. Despite advances in surgical techniques, including laparoscopy, the healthcare burden of adhesion-related complications has not changed in recent years. Adhesiolysis remains the main treatment although adhesions reform in many patients. The extent of the problem of adhesions has been underestimated by surgeons and the health authorities. There is rising evidence however that surgeons can take important steps to reduce the impact of adhesions. As well as improvements in surgical technique, developments in adhesion-reduction strategies and new agents offer a realistic possibility of reducing adhesion formation and improving outcomes for patients. This paper is the first of a two-part publication providing a comprehensive overview of the evidence on adhesions to allow gynaecological surgeons to be best informed on adhesions, their development, impact on patients, health systems and surgical outcomes. In the second paper we review the various strategies to reduce the impact of adhesions and improve surgical outcomes to assist fellow surgeons in France to consider the adoption of adhesion reduction strategies in their own practice., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To evaluate efficacy and functional results (sexual activity) of vaginal flap for rectovaginal fistula in Crohn's disease., Patients and Methods: From May 2004 to March 2008, we proposed a vaginal flap in patients who had a rectovaginal fistula in Crohn's disease and for which rectal flap was technically impossible. Monitoring included a clinical examination at 1 month and every 3 months for 1 year, Perianal Disease Activity Index for sexual activity evaluation. Every year and in April 2009 the nursing team during a telephone interview filled a standardized questionnaire., Results: We treated 5 patients. At 6 months, 4 of 5 patients were healed. At 7 months, 1 patient presented a new flare up of CD with reopening of the fistula. The other 3 patients were still healed at a median follow-up of 30.66 months (15 to 59). One patient presented dyspareunia during 3 months., Discussion and Conclusion: Vaginal flap is an effective technique that entails neither prolonged dyspareunia nor fecal incontinence. Stoma is not systematic., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

More and more perimenopausal and menopausal women seek an alternative to hysterectomy because they desire future pregnancy or wish to retain their uteri even if they have completed childbearing. Myomectomy may be an option. We can't know the evolution of leiomyomas. Hysteroscopic myomectomy is the treatment of submucous fibromas. Recurrence and subsequent surgery occurs in 16 to 21 % of cases. Intramural and subserousal myomas can be treated by myomectomy. Myomectomy should be performed laparoscopically because of shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and reduced postoperative pain. Second surgery is needed in 4-16 % of patients. If hysterectomy is performed, it should be by vaginal or laparoscopic route. There is no difference in perioperative morbidity between hysterectomy and myomectomy. Intra- and postoperative complications are similar between myomectomy and hysterectomy. Hysterectomy may be prefered if there is risk factor of malignancy or if the fibroma is discovered or has a rapid growth after menopause., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

At present, it is estimated that fibroids may be associated with infertility in 5 to 10% and are possibly the sole cause of infertility in 1 to 3%. Their effects on fertility remain debated. The aim of this review of published studies between January 1990 and November 2010 was to clarify the relation between myoma and fertility, and to assess the role of myomectomy in infertile patients. In assisted reproduction technology and spontaneous conception, hysteroscopic sub-mucous myoma resection increased pregnancy rates. Intramural fibroids appear to decrease fertility, but the myomectomy does not improve assisted reproduction technology and spontaneous fertility. More high-quality studies are needed to conclude toward the value of myomectomy for intramural fibroids. Subserosal fibroids do not affect fertility outcomes, and removal does not confer benefit., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To provide guidelines for clinical practice from the French College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF), based on the best evidence available, concerning the adverse events related to surgical procedures involving the use of prosthetic meshes., Materials and Methods: French and English-language articles from Medline, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database were searched, using key words (mesh ; pelvic organ prolapse ; cystocele ; rectocele ; uterine prolapse ; complications ; adverse event ; sacral colpopexy ; extrusion ; infection...)., Results: As with any surgery, it is recommended to provide a perioperative smoking cessation (expert opinion) and comply with the prevention of nosocomial infections (regulatory requirement). There is no evidence to recommend routine local or systemic estrogen therapy before or after prolapse surgery using mesh, regardless of the surgical approach (grade C). Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended, regardless of the approach (expert opinion). It is recommended to seek a pre-operative urinary tract infection and treat it (expert opinion). The first cases should be made under the guidance of an experienced surgeon in the relevant technique (grade C). It is recommended not to place a non-absorbable synthetic mesh into the rectovaginal septum when a rectal injury occurs (expert opinion). The placement of a non-absorbable synthetic mesh into the vesicovaginal septum may be considered after the suture of a bladder injury if the suture is considered to be satisfactory (expert opinion). If a synthetic mesh is placed by vaginal route, it is recommended to use a macroporous polypropylene monofilament mesh (grade B). It is recommended not to use polyester mesh for vaginal surgery (grade B). It is allowed to perform a hysterectomy associated with the placement of a non-absorbable synthetic mesh placed by vaginal route but this is not routinely recommended (expert opinion). It is recommended to minimize the extent of the colpectomy (expert opinion). Laparoscopic approach is recommended for sacral colpopexy (grade C). It is recommended not to place and suture meshes by vaginal route when a sacral colpopexy is performed (grade B). It is recommended not to use silicone-coated polyester, porcine dermis, fascia lata, and polytétrafluoroéthylène meshes (grade B). It is recommended to use polyester (without silicone coating) or polypropylene meshes (grade C). Suture of the meshes to the promontory can be performed using thread/needle or tacker (grade C). A peritonization is recommended to cover the meshes (grade C). If hysterectomy is required, it is recommended to perform a subtotal hysterectomy (grade C)., Conclusion: Implementation of this guideline should decrease the prevalence of complications related to surgical procedures involving the use of prosthetic meshes., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To define the involvement of myomas and myomectomy in all stages from conception to post-partum in women of reproductive age., Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted using the Medline and Cochrane databases to March 2011 by matching the keywords "fertility, infertility, miscarriage, pregnancy, delivery" with "myomas, fibroids, myomectomy"., Results: An association between myomas and fertility has been observed but the responsibility fibroids in infertility remains unclear. Myomas are associated with an increased rate of obstetric complications. Adhesions are the main complication of myomectomy. Endoscopic procedures and the use of anti-adhesive barriers prevent adhesion formation. Pregnancy rate in cases of myomectomy by laparotomy and laparoscopy is similar. Myomectomy during pregnancy is exceptionally indicated., Conclusion: The discovery of a uterine myoma needs to consider the responsibility of myomas in infertility, but also its impact on a future pregnancy. The therapeutic management is based on myomectomy but expected benefits must be weighed with potential risks., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological, anatomoclinical, surgical and evolutionary aspects of the urological complications of gynecological surgery., Material and Methods: It was about a retrospective survey, concerning 81 patients hospitalized in the department of urology of the university hospital, Brazzaville from 2000 to 2008 for urological complications of the gynecological surgery. The epidemiological, diagnostic, surgical and evolutionary parameters have been analyzed., Results: The urological complication of the gynecological surgery has been recovered in 3% of patients hospitalized in urology. The middle age was 37±14.52 years (17 and 74 years). The median was about 36 years. The middle delay of diagnosis was 15 days (0 and 350 days). The revealing clinical signs were: the oligoanuria (n=12), the urinary incontinence (n=57), the lumbar pain (n=9) and the cyclic hematuria (n=2). The surgical interventions in reason were: the Caesarean (n=50), the hysterectomy for fibroma (n=26), the myomectomy (n=3) and the hysterectomy for cancer (n=2). Anatomical lesion were 55 (67.9%) vesicovaginal fistulas, 12 (14.8%) ureteral ligatures, eight (10%) uretero-vaginal fistulas, three (3.7%) vesico-uterine fistulas, two (2.4%) wounds ureteral and one (1.2%) vaginal vesico-fistulas and uretero-vaginal fistulas. The treatment consisted in one termino-terminal ureterorraphia, 20 uretero-vesical reimplantation, 57 cures of vesico-vaginal fistulas and one nephrectomy. The recovery was obtained at 96% of the ureteral lesions and 90% of the vesico-vaginal fistulas., Conclusion: The lesions of the ureteral and the bladder were often met during the gynecological surgery. The treatment requires knowledge of the anatomy of pelvis., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the risk of occurrence of de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after sacral colpopexy (SCP)., Patients and Methods: In all, 57 women with no concomitant or occult SUI, had a SCP for urogenital prolapse between January 2006 and October 2009. Some data from their medical charts (age, body mass index, past medical history, maximum urethral closure pressure, bladder neck hypermobility) were reviewed retrospectively and statistically analyzed to assess the association between these factors and de novo SUI., Results: With a median follow-up of 16 months, four patients (7.3%) developed de novo SUI 1 year postoperative and which required the wearing of pads defensively, three of which were significantly improved after pelviperineal rehabilitation, however only one patient: 1.8% required the establishment of a sub-urethral tape 8 months after the surgical correction of prolapse. No statistically significant association has been established despite a P<0.01 between the sphincter deficiency (SD) and de novo SUI because of a sample too small inferior to five, however predictive values for PPV and NPV, the MUCP was 43 and 2.2%., Conclusion: The results of this study were consistent with the literature data, the risk to our patients to develop de novo SUI requiring secondly anti-incontinence procedure was lower: 7.3% but could become more important: 43% if preoperative SD. Patients should always be informed before surgery as it cannot be predicted., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Uterine rupture after myomectomy is rare but serious. It can occur before onset of labor and compromise vital maternofoetal outcome. We report the case of a uterine rupture at 25-week gestation in a 38-year-old primiparous woman after myomectomy and we will present a review of the literature concerning obstetric outcome after myomectomy., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and morbidity of laparoscopic promontofixation in the cure of genital prolapse., Patients and Method: From March 2001 to January 2009, 101 patients with genital prolapse of grade greater than or equal to 2 (POPQ classification) were operated by laparoscopy. Complications per and postoperative as well as patient satisfaction were assessed. Quality of life was evaluated using the questionnaires Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI 20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PISQ 7) and Pelvic Organ Prolaps/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ 12)., Results: The mean operative time was 196 min including the time for hysterectomy done in 83% of cases. The peroperative complication rate was 7% including two bladder and one rectal injuries and 4% of laparoconversion. The postoperative complication rate was 16% corresponding to 3/4 of retention of urine. Two pelvic hematomas were observed. The distance complication rate was 3% corresponding to a vaginal erosion, a spondylodiscitis and a case of persistent pelvic pain requiring removal of material. With a mean follow-up of 30.7 months, 81% patients declared themselves satisfied with the intervention. In intention to treat, the satisfaction rate was only 67.3%. A significant improvement in quality of life was observed using the questionnaire PFDI 20 (p < 0.0001), PFIQ 7 (p < 0.0001) et PISQ 12 (p < 0.001)., Discussion and Conclusion: Our results confirm the feasibility of the laparoscopic promontofixation with a quality of life improvement but also highlights the existence of significant morbidity requiring further trials for the choice of surgical approach for the treatment of genital prolapse., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: To review the etiology and incidence of and associative factors in the formation of adhesions following gynaecological surgery. To review evidence for the use of available means of adhesion prevention following gynaecological surgery., Options: Women undergoing pelvic surgery are at risk of developing abdominal and/or pelvic adhesive disease postoperatively. Surgical technique and commercial adhesion prevention systems may decrease the risk of postoperative adhesion formation., Outcomes: The outcomes measured are the incidence of postoperative adhesions, complications related to the formation of adhesions, and further intervention relative to adhesive disease., Evidence: Medline, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Library were searched for articles published in English from 1990 to March 2009, using appropriate controlled vocabulary and key words. Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, cohort studies, and meta-analyses specifically addressing postoperative adhesions, adhesion prevention, and adhesive barriers. Searches were updated on a regular basis and incorporated in the guideline to March 2009. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching the websites of health technology assessment and health technology assessment-related agencies, clinical practice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies., Values: The quality of evidence was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care SUMMARY STATEMENTS: 1. Meticulous surgical technique is a means of preventing adhesions. This includes minimizing tissue trauma, achieving optimal hemostasis, minimizing the risk of infection, and avoiding contaminants (e.g., fecal matter) and the use of foreign materials (e.g., talcum powder) when possible. (II-2). 2. The risk of adhesions increases with the total number of abdominal and pelvic surgeries performed on one patient; every surgery needs to be carefully considered in this context. (II-2). 3. Polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) barrier is more effective than no barrier or oxidized regenerated cellulose in preventing adhesion formation. (I). 4. Oxidized regenerated cellulose (Interceed) adhesion barrier is associated with a reduced incidence of pelvic adhesion formation at both laparoscopy and laparotomy when complete hemostasis is achieved. Oxidized regenerated cellulose may increase the risk of adhesions if optimal hemostasis is not achieved. (II-2). 5. Chemically modified sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose (Seprafilm) is effective in preventing adhesion formation, especially following myomectomies. There is insufficient evidence on the effect of sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose on long-term clinical outcomes such as fertility, chronic pelvic pain or small bowel obstruction. (II-2). 6. No adverse effects have been reported with the use of oxidized regenerated cellulose, polytetrafluoroethylene, or sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose. (II-1). 7. Various pharmacological agents have been marketed as a means of preventing adhesions. None of these agents are presently available in Canada. There is insufficient evidence for the use of pharmacological agents in preventing adhesions. (III-C)., Recommendations: 1. Surgeons should attempt to perform surgical procedures using the least invasive method possible in order to decrease the risk of adhesion formation. (II-1B ). When feasible, for example, a laparoscopic surgical approach is preferable to an abdominal approach, and a vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy is preferable to an abdominal hysterectomy. 2. Precautions should be taken at surgery to minimize tissue trauma in order to decrease the risk of postoperative adhesions. These precautions include limiting packing, crushing, and manipulating of tissues to what is strictly required for safe completion of the procedure. (III-B). 3. Surgeons could consider using an adhesion barrier for patients who are at high risk of forming clinically significant adhesions (i.e., patients who have endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease or who are undergoing a myomectomy). If there is a risk of ongoing bleeding from the surgical site, oxidized regenerated cellulose (Interceed) should not be used as it may increase the risk of adhesions in this situation. (II-2B).

Sexual well-being is an important parameter of women's health and quality of live. Sexual disorders may occur in women with pelvic organ prolapse and/or stress urinary incontinence and also after pelvic reconstructive surgery. Sexual dysfunction after POP or SUI surgery has been poorly documented but new condition specific questionnaires have been developed to help us to better evaluate such consequences. This paper reports updated data and highlights more specifically consequences of surgery with mesh reinforcement which is, currently, an important issue particularly when performing by vaginal approach.

Aims: Evaluation of the mini invasiveness and the learning curve of the Prolift technique., Materials and Methods: Prospective study. All patients were operated on by the same surgeon. The mini-invasiveness of the procedure was estimated through the evaluation of the intraoperative and immediate postoperative complications. The learning curve was evaluated through the analysis of the operative time., Results: Between January and December 2007. Forty-seven patients were included in the study. Mean follow-up was: 11,8 months. Two cases of bladder injury and two cases of intraoperative bleeding (>500 ml) were reported. One case of vaginal erosion and one case of recurrence of the prolapse occurred during the follow-up. The mean operative time was 62+/-18 min. The mean operative time of the posterior step of the Prolift was 24+/-min and remained stable after the 18th procedure., Discussion: The learning cure of the posterior of the procedure is longer because of the passage of the needles through the ischiorectal foramens. The technique is mini-invasive considered the low rate of intra and immediate postoperative complication and the learning curve short., Conclusions: Longer follow-up is needed to evaluate the efficacy of the procedure in the long term.

Even if genital prolapse does particularly affect the elder woman, we often have to face a surgical demand with conservation of the uterus from a patient less than 50 years. Before making the decision of treating a non life-threatening symptom by a specific surgical technique, it is important to ask who should be operated and when. Then, the route of the surgery has to be chosen considering that the woman wants to preserve her fertility. In the past decade, some surgical acts, like the sacrohysteropexy, were known as having poorer results if the women got pregnant. Thus, if there was a persistent childbearing desire, more interventions allowing pregnancy (like the Manchester's or the Richardson's procedures) were preferred. Nowadays, the sacrohysteropexy is considered as the gold standard technique, but one question is coming out: could we substitute this traditional surgery by a vaginal repair with meshes? Despite the big diversity of the so-called "sacrohysteropexy", we think that it remains the first choice technique to cure a young woman. Vaginal meshes have too high a rate of morbidity (especially on sexual activity) to be considered as the best surgical treatment. But this question could probably find another answer in the future, when all the studies about the component of the meshes will be finished.

Objectives: To evaluate results of laparoscopic sacropexy with introital and vaginal ultrasonography, that is to observe dynamic behavior of the mesh, to measure precisely its position and to conclude on the feasibility of this exam., Patients and Methods: The surgery was a laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy and a suspension of the cervix with an anterior vesicovaginal mesh and a posterior rectovaginal mesh. These meshes are joined together and fixed on the sacrum. Ultrasound was performed in fifteen patients to see in the sagital plane the position of the mesh. The distance anterior mesh-bladder neck and the distance posterior mesh-anal sphincter were measured at rest, during straining and during retaining. The spreading out and the dynamic behavior of the mesh were studied., Results: The distance anterior mesh-bladder neck is 12 mm at rest, 15 mm during straining and 13 mm during retaining. The distance posterior mesh-anal sphincter is 30 mm at rest, 26 mm during straining and 31 mm during retaining. The mesh is always seen as spread out, or folded, but never strained. Video recording shows that sacropexy does not block pelvic dynamics., Discussion and Conclusion: Ultrasound imaging appears in this study as a simple and efficient exam to study and measure prosthesis. It could be a good help for clinical examination to explain failure or complication of surgery.

Objective: The purpose of the study was to report surgical techniques for pelvic organ prolapse and complications in women aged more than 70 years., Patients and Methods: A Medline search was made for articles indexed between 2000 and 2006 and dealing with operative techniques for pelvic organ prolapse. Seven articles in English and French were included., Results: Three hundred and ninety-four women were treated for pelvic organ prolapse. Transvaginal repairs were reported in 97% (384 women). Vaginal function was preserved in 57% (207 women) and vaginal obliteration techniques represented 40% (145 women) of all prolapse surgery. The death rate was 1% (four deaths). The blood transfusion rate was 12%. The mean complication rate was 3.8% with cardiovascular prevalence (seven pulmonary embolisms, two myocardial infarctions, two congestive heart failures, one prolonged angina, two transient arrhythmias, one cerebrovascular accident, one acute renal failure). The temporospatial disorientation rate was 4.6%., Discussion and Conclusion: Vaginal hysterectomy with colpo-perineorrhaphy and sacrospinous ligament fixation are alternative procedures instead of colpocleisis to treat pelvic organ prolapse in women aged more than 70 years. For all pelvic prolapse surgery, the overall perioperative morbidity and mortality rate in elderly women are acceptable. This surgery needs a good collaboration between anesthetist and surgeon team and vigilance during postoperative follow-up.

With fifteen years of development, laparoscopy for myomectomy has proven its advantages. However, this technique remains controversial concerning its feasibility and the quality of uterine scar obtained. Laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) is usually indicated when number of myomas is less than 3 to 4 with a 8 to 9 cm maximal size. Surgical technique is standardized and intervention time becomes acceptable. Risk of conversion ranges between 1 to 3% when technique is realized by trained surgeon. Bleeding is less important compared with laparotomy and immediate postoperative complications are exceptional. Results concerning fertility are positive with more than 50% of infertile patient conceiving after surgery, this rate rising up to 61 to 76% for myomas isolated cause for infertility; these values can be compared with myomectomy realized by laparotomy. Postoperative adhesions seem to be less important after laparoscopy when compared with laparotomy but this point needs to be confirmed. Risk of uterine rupture is estimated between 0 to 1%, but this point needs for larger series evaluation and needs to be compared with pregnancies after laparotomy. Laparoscopic myomectomy is a feasible technique, safe for patients waiting for conception and has proven its interest in case of infertility.

Surgical injury to the ureter is an important problem that confronts the urologist, the gynaecologist and the general surgeon. We report 38 cases of iatrogenic ureteral injuries observed after gynaecological surgery between January 1972 and December 2004. Hysterectomy accounted for 22 injuries. Injuries were intra-operatively recognized in 3 cases and were treated immediately. In the case of lesions identified secondarily, a ureter-vesical implantation was performed in 66% of cases with a good result in 84% of them. Four patients required nephrectomy. We discuss the cicumstances of development, diagnosis approach and treatment of this lesion and review the literature about this subject.

The use of laparoscopic staging and/or surgery in the field of gynaecological oncology was pioneered in the late 80's and the first reports were published in the early 90's. The issue has been initially most controversial, and is still debated, with some justification considering the possible adverse consequences of surgical mismanagement of gynaecologic malignancy. Since then, a number of papers have confirmed the absence of significant adverse effects on survival after laparoscopic diagnosis or surgery in gynaecological cancers. New developments cover virtually all the basic techniques in cancer surgery, including major exenterative surgery. The use of extraperitoneal technique for aortic dissections is emerging as a new tool. New indications, such as radical vaginal trachelectomy (Dargent operation), radical parametrectomy, pelvic sentinel node identification, decisional laparoscopy in adnexal malignancies, or the use of pretherapeutic surgical staging of uterine cancers, have been developed in direct relation with the use of laparoscopic techniques. Worldwide interest clearly demonstrates that laparoscopic techniques must now be part of the armamentarium of the gynaecologic oncologist. Postoperative morbidity and recurrence risk do not seem to be affected. Cost-efficiency of laparoscopic procedures is based on the reduction of hospital stay and recovery time, particularly in obese patients. Combined training in gynaecologic oncology and in laparoscopic and/or vaginal surgery is more than ever mandatory to reduce the operating time, which is becoming similar to laparotomy in experiences hands, and avoid the risk of inadequate staging or management of pelvic malignancies.

Investigation of adverse outcomes in obstetrics and gynaecology requires a systematic and systemically oriented approach. The main objective of these assessments is to decrease their incidence. Lethal complications in obstetrics and gynaecological surgery have become so rare in developed countries that we have to grapple mainly with severe morbidities. A model for such investigation is presented, based on answers to 3 questions: What? How? and Why? These questions correspond to 3 components of quality assurance: Outcome, Process, and Structure, respectively. Aspects of Reason's model of accidents are also included, in the form of "active failures" and "latent conditions." The latter are divided into basic contributory factors, 4 of which are derived from a model of human factors influencing behaviour in anaesthesia or flight-crew environments. To illustrate its basic nature, the model is applied to anonymized cases of surgical complications. Application of the model to the reactive investigation of close calls is discussed, as is application to the proactive interrogation of the care system for the presence and nature of hazards that pose threats to safety.