Search

Purpose To assess the accuracy of preoperative sonographic staging for prediction of limited axillary disease (LAD, one or two metastatic lymph nodes) and to identify factors associated with high prediction–pathology concordance in patients with early-stage breast cancer meeting the Z0011 criteria. Materials and Methods Patients treated between January 2015 and January 2020 were included in this retrospective, multicentric analysis of prospectively acquired service databases. The accuracy of LAD prediction was assessed separately for patients with one and two suspicious lymph nodes on preoperative sonography. Test validity outcomes for LAD prediction were calculated for both groups, and a multivariate model was used to identify factors associated with high accuracy of LAD prediction. Results Of 2059 enrolled patients, 1513 underwent sentinel node biopsy, 436 primary and 110 secondary axillary dissection. For LAD prediction in patients with one suspicious lymph node on preoperative ultrasound, sensitivity was 92% (95% CI 87–95%), negative predictive value (NPV) was 92% (95% CI 87–95%), and the false-negative rate (FNR) was 8% (95% CI 5–13%). For patients with two preoperatively suspicious nodes, the sensitivity, NPV, and FNR were 89% (95% CI 84–93%), 73% (62–83%), and 11% (95% CI 7–16%), respectively. On multivariate analysis, the number of suspicious lymph nodes was associated inversely with correct LAD prediction ([OR 0.01 (95% CI 0.01–0.93), p ≤ 0.01]. Conclusions Sonographic axillary staging in patients with one metastatic lymph node predicted by preoperative ultrasound showed high accuracy and a false-negative rate comparable to sentinel node biopsy for prediction of limited axillary disease.

Purpose There is a novel surgical procedure, called cervicosacropexy (CESA) and vaginosacropexy (VASA) to treat pelvic organ prolapse and a concomitant urgency and mixed urinary incontinence. As there is little experience with the tapes so far and literature is scanty, the aim of this study was to investigate biomechanical properties for the fixation of the PVDF-tapes with three different fixation methods in context of apical fixations. Methods Evaluation was performed on porcine, fresh cadaver sacral spines. A total of 40 trials, divided into 4 subgroups, was performed on the anterior longitudinal ligament. Recorded biomechanical properties were displacement at failure, maximum load and stiffness in terms of the primary endpoints. The failure mode was a secondary endpoint. Group 4 was a reference group to compare single sutures on porcine tissue with those on human tissue. Biomechanical parameters for single sutures on the human anterior longitudinal ligament were evaluated in a previous work by Hachenberg et al. Results The maximum load for group 1 (two single sutures) was 65 ± 12 N, for group 2 (three titanium tacks arranged in a row) it was 25 ± 10 N and for group 3 (three titanium tacks arranged in a triangle) it was 38 ± 12 N. There was a significant difference between all three groups. The most common failure mode was a “mesh failure” in 9/10 trials for groups 1–3. Conclusion The PVDF-tape fixation with two single sutures endures 2.6 times more load than titanium tacks arranged in a row and 1.7 times more load than titanium tacks arranged in a triangle. The presacral fixation with titanium tacks reduced surgical time compared to the fixation with sutures, nevertheless sutures represent the significantly stronger and cheaper fixation method.

Purpose As data on this topic are sparse and contradictory, we aimed to ascertain the opinions of the members of the German Society of Gynecologic Endoscopy (AGE) regarding the use of robotic surgery in the treatment of ovarian malignancies. Methods In 2015, an anonymous questionnaire was sent to AGE members to assess their views on the treatment of ovarian malignancies by robotic surgery according to T stage and the current treatment practices in their facilities. Results Of the 228 respondents, 132 (58%) were fellows or attending physicians and 156 (68%) worked at university hospitals or tertiary referral centers. Most [n = 218 (96%)] respondents reported treating Conclusion The majority of AGE members surveyed considered robotic surgery to be an option for the treatment of T1 ovarian malignancies and borderline ovarian tumors. However, prospective randomized studies are needed to determine the relevance of robotic surgery in this context.

Objective Laparoscopy is a standard procedure in operative gynaecology, but laparoscopic simulator training for novices/junior surgeons is not currently well-established. The aims of this study were to demonstrate that a laparoscopic knot course for trainees can significantly shorten the knotting time and to perform a counter-value calculation for the clinic’s costs. Material and methods An observational study was performed with exercises on a laparoscopic box trainer as part of the practical clerkship in gynaecology and obstetrics between 07.10.2019-31.01.2020. At the beginning and at the end of the exercises, the participants made a laparoscopic knot and the difference in knotting time, Δt in seconds (s) was measured. Results Eighty-eight medical students needed an average of 247.1 s for the first laparoscopic knot at the beginning of the course and an average of 45.43 s for the second at the end of the course. Mean shortening of the knotting time was 201.67 s or 81.6% (p=0.02). Calculating costs of an average of €40-50 for an operation minute would mean a cost saving of at least €120-150 for a partial node. Conclusion Trainees can significantly improve their operative skills in a short time with the aid of surgical simulation training. Such training can be beneficial for clinics by reducing the operating time if the basics, such as sewing and instrument guidance, are learned on a simulator. We therefore suggest that operative simulation training should be mandatory in medical education.

Objective: Conisation of the cervix is one of the most common surgical procedures in gynaecology. Nevertheless, surgical expertise is required because if the cone is too small, the oncological risk increases and if the cone is too large, the obstetric risk increases. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the suitability of an in-house conisation simulator for teaching medical students the practical performance of conisation. Material and Methods: Following a demonstration, students performed a loop conisation with a target depth of 8-10 mm using the simulator. Cone biopsy dimensions were analysed and a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) score was calculated. The students were surveyed using a questionnaire of 12 items with five possible responses for each in order to investigate the suitability and realism of the teaching experience. Results: Eighty-nine students participated in the course. The median (range) cone depth was 8 (3-25) mm with a standard deviation of 3.3 mm. The observed LEEP score amounted to 1.5. The questionnaire was answered by 88 students and completed by 86. Survey results showed the course was consistently rated as positive, especially towards the increase in practical skills. The questionnaire item producing the highest score was “I enjoyed the course” while the statement “I have gained enough self-confidence for the application of high-frequency surgery” received the lowest approval score. Students considered the course to be realistic and a helpful teaching exercise. Conclusion: Practical surgery exercises on the surgical simulator were received positively. Simulation training could be extended to other gynaecological operations and to other medical subjects.

Introduction Our study assesses the patients’ opinion about gynecological examination performed by undergraduate students (UgSts). This assessment will be used in improving our undergraduate training program. A positive opinion would mean a lower chance of a patient refusing to be examined by a tutor or student, taking into account vaginal examination (VE). Materials and methods We performed a prospective cross-sectional survey on 1194 patients, consisting of outpatient and inpatient at the departments of obstetrics and gynecology from November 2015 to May 2016. The questionnaire consisted of 46 questions. Besides demographic data, we assessed the mindset of patients regarding the involvement of undergraduate student (UgSt) in gynecological and obstetrical examinations. We used SPSS version 23 for the statistical analysis. For reporting the data, we followed the STROBE statement of reporting observational studies. Results The median age was 38 years having a median of one child. 34% presented due to obstetrical problems, 38% due to gynecological complaints, and 19% due to known gynecological malignancies. Generally, we retrieved a positive opinion of patients towards the involvement of students in gynecological and obstetrical examination under supervision in 2/3 of the cases. Conclusions There is no reason to exclude medical UgSts from gynecological and obstetrical examinations after obtaining a written or oral consent.

Background Chromosome 3q26 amplifications have been shown to represent a frequent alteration in various cancer entities including breast cancer. SEC62 - a 3q26 encoded gene - was identified as a potential oncogene and tumor-driver-gene for the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Although the precise physiological function of the respective protein Sec62 is not completely understood, it is hypothesized, that Sec62 induces an increased stress tolerance and enhances cell migration in SEC62 overexpressing cells resulting in a high rate of lymphatic metastasis and poorer overall prognosis in tumor tissue with a high Sec62 expression. We sought to further elucidate the function of Sec62 in breast cancer with special focus on its predictive role on the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Materials and Methods All patients treated for primary breast cancer with neoadjuvant chemotherapy at the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany between 01/2007 and 12/2018 were enrolled in this study. The study was approved by the Saarland institutional review board. Sec62 protein levels were analyzed in tumor tissue samples using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Sec62 immunoreactivity was evaluated by three independent examiners using the immunoreactive score (IRS) according to Remmele and Stegner (0-12). For the assessment of Sec62 protein expression in tumor cells, we rated Sec62 “negative” 0-3, “low” for a score of 4-8 and “high” for 9-12 as described in previous publications. IHC was performed on initial breast core biopsy (CB) tissue (pre-treatment) and on definite pathology specimen (PS) obtained during breast surgery after completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Sec62 expression in both samples were compared and correlated with response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy evaluated pathologically using the semi-quantitative response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy scoring system by Sinn et al. ranging from 0 (no effect) to 4 (no tumor detectable). Additionally, Sec62 expression in tumor tissue was compared with the histologically tumor-free tissue of the same patient. Sec62 expression levels and correlation with response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy were compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank, Mann-Whitney and Pearson`s chi square test. Results 203 patients were assessed for eligibility. Nine cases were excluded, due to incomplete clinical information or insufficient slide quality, leaving 194 patients for final analysis. Median patient age was 54 (22-86) years and median response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy score of 2 (0-4). 20 patients (10 %) had luminal A, 46 (24 %) luminal B, 60 (31 %) Her2/neu positive and 68 (35 %) triple negative breast cancer. All analyzed slides showed an over-expression of Sec62 in breast cancer cells but no positive staining of physiologic breast tissue cells. Median Sec62 expression in core biopsies (CB) (8 (2-12)) was significantly higher compared to expression in final specimen (PS) (4 (0-12); p ≤ 0.01). Median difference between Sec62 expression of CB and PS was 2 (0-4). Regarding response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy patients with a low Sec62 expression in PS and a difference ≥ 6 between CB and PS showed a significant higher median response score compared to other patients (2 (0-4) vs. 1 (0-2); p ≤ 0.01; 4 (1-4) vs. 1 (0-4); p ≤ 0.01). When looking at breast cancer subtypes these effects were strongest in Her2/positive and triple negative patients and median Sec62 expression showed the highest decrease between CB and PS in these two subgroups (6 (-3-12); 2 (-6-12)). Conclusion We identified Sec62 as a potential biomarker for prediction of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with primary breast cancer. This effect was observed to be strongest in patients with Her2/positive and triple negative breast cancer. Citation Format: Julia Caroline Radosa, Mariz Kasoha, Merle Doerk, Barbara Linxweiler, Maximilian Linxweiler, Florian Bochen, Rainer M Bohle, Matthias Wagner, Marc P Radosa, Erich-Franz Solomayer, Zoltan Ferenc Takacs. Role of Sec62 in prediction of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with primary breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-10-28.

The antiangiogenic splice variant VEGF-A165b is downregulated in a variety of cancer entities, but little is known so far about circulating plasma levels. The present analysis addresses this question and examines circulating VEGF-A/VEGF-A165b levels in a collective of female high-risk breast cancer patients over the course of treatment. Within the SUCCES-A trial 205 patients were recruited after having received primary breast surgery. Using ELISA VEGF-A/VEGF-A165b concentrations were determined and correlated to clinical characteristics (1) before adjuvant chemotherapy, (2) four weeks and (3) two years after therapy and compared to healthy controls (n = 107). VEGF165b levels were significantly elevated after completion of chemotherapy. Within the breast cancer cohort, VEGF-A165b levels increased two years after completion of chemotherapy. VEGF-A plasma concentrations were significantly elevated in the breast cancer cohort at all examined time points and decreased after treatment. VEGF-A levels two years after chemotherapy correlated with increased cancer related mortality, no such correlation could be found between VEGF-A165b and the examined clinical characteristics. Compared to controls, VEGF-A/VEGF-A165b ratios were decreased in patients before and after chemotherapy. Our data suggests that circulating VEGF-A165b is significantly reduced in women with primary breast cancer at time of diagnosis; furthermore, levels change during adjuvant treatment.

Purpose The purpose of this survey was to assess medical students’ opinions about online learning programs and their preferences for specific teaching formats during COVID 19 pandemic. Methods Between May and July 2020, medical students who took an online gynecology and obstetrics course were asked to fill in a questionnaire anonymously. The questionnaire solicited their opinions about the course, the teaching formats used (online lectures, video tutorials featuring real patient scenarios, and online practical skills training), and digital learning in general. Results Of 103 students, 98 (95%) submitted questionnaires that were included in the analysis. 84 (86%) students had no problem with the online course and 70 (72%) desired more online teaching in the future. 37 (38%) respondents preferred online to traditional lectures. 72 (74%) students missed learning with real patients. All digital teaching formats received good and excellent ratings from > 80% of the students. Conclusion The survey results show medical students’ broad acceptance of the online course during COVID 19 pandemic and indicates that digital learning options can partially replace conventional face-to-face teaching. For content taught by lecture, online teaching might be an alternative or complement to traditional education. However, bedside-teaching remains a key pillar of medical education.

Purpose Acute Sheehan’s syndrome is a rare, but potentially life-threatening, obstetric event that can be complicated by diabetes insipidus. Little information on the diagnosis and treatment of Sheehan’s syndrome with diabetes insipidus is available. We report on a 28-year-old patient who developed acute Sheehan’s syndrome with diabetes insipidus after giving birth, and on a systematic review of similar cases. Methods We performed a systematic review of the literature cataloged in PubMed and Google Scholar using the keywords “Sheehan syndrome” OR “Sheehan's syndrome” AND “diabetes insipidus” to identify relevant case reports published between 1990 and 2021. Eight Reports met the inclusion criteria (English-language abstracts available, onset in the puerperium, information about the day of the onset). Results In the present case, postpartum curettage was necessary to remove the residual placenta. The total amount of blood loss was severe (2500 ml). On the second day postpartal, the patient developed polyuria. Laboratory analysis revealed hypernatremia with increased serum osmolality and decreased urinary osmolality. Hormone analysis showed partial hypopituitarism involving the thyroid, corticotropic, and gonadotropic axes. The prolactin level was elevated. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed pituitary gland infarction. Desmopressin therapy was initiated and resolved the polyuria. Hormone replacement therapy was administered. Four months later, the patient was well, with partial diabetes insipidus. The literature review indicated that this case was typical in terms of symptoms and disease onset. Most reported cases involve hypotension and peripartum hemorrhage, but some patients without hemorrhage also develop Sheehan’s syndrome. Elevated prolactin levels are uncommon and associated with poor prognosis in patients with Sheehan’s syndrome. Conclusion Acute Sheehan’s syndrome with diabetes insipidus involves nearly all pituitary hormone axes, indicating severe disease. Prolactin elevation could suggest that a case of Sheehan’s syndrome is severe.

Introduction: Dysmenorrhea is defined as the presence of painful menstruation, and it affects daily activities in different ways. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence and management of dysmenorrhea and to determine the impact of dysmenorrhea on the quality of life of medical students. Material and methods: The study conducted was prospective, analytical and observational and was performed between 7 November 2019 and 30 January 2020 in five university centers from Romania. The data was collected using an original questionnaire regarding menstrual cycles and dysmenorrhea. The information about relationships with family or friends, couples’ relationships and university activity helped to assess the effects of dysmenorrhea on quality of life. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The study comprised 1720 students in total. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 78.4%. During their menstrual period, most female students felt more agitated or nervous (72.7%), more tired (66.9%), as if they had less energy for daily activities (75.9%) and highly stressed (57.9%), with a normal diet being difficult to achieve (30.0%). University courses (49.4%), social life (34.5%), couples’ relationships (29.6%), as well as relationships with family (21.4%) and friends (15.4%) were also affected, depending on the duration and intensity of the pain. Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea has a high prevalence among medical students and could affect the quality of life of students in several ways. During their menstrual period, most female students feel as if they have less energy for daily activities and exhibit a higher level of stress. The intensity of the symptoms varies considerably and, with it, the degree of discomfort it creates. Most student use both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods to reduce pain (75.7%). University courses, social life, couples’ relationships, as well as relationships with family and friends are affected, depending on the duration and intensity of the pain.

Introduction: Dysmenorrhea is defined as the presence of painful menstruation, and it affects daily activities in different ways. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence and management of dysmenorrhea and to determine the impact of dysmenorrhea on the quality of life of medical students. Material and methods: The study conducted was prospective, analytical and observational and was performed between 7 November 2019 and 30 January 2020 in five university centers from Romania. The data was collected using an original questionnaire regarding menstrual cycles and dysmenorrhea. The information about relationships with family or friends, couples’ relationships and university activity helped to assess the effects of dysmenorrhea on quality of life. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The study comprised 1720 students in total. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 78.4%. During their menstrual period, most female students felt more agitated or nervous (72.7%), more tired (66.9%), as if they had less energy for daily activities (75.9%) and highly stressed (57.9%), with a normal diet being difficult to achieve (30.0%). University courses (49.4%), social life (34.5%), couples’ relationships (29.6%), as well as relationships with family (21.4%) and friends (15.4%) were also affected, depending on the duration and intensity of the pain. Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea has a high prevalence among medical students and could affect the quality of life of students in several ways. During their menstrual period, most female students feel as if they have less energy for daily activities and exhibit a higher level of stress. The intensity of the symptoms varies considerably and, with it, the degree of discomfort it creates. Most student use both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods to reduce pain (75.7%). University courses, social life, couples’ relationships, as well as relationships with family and friends are affected, depending on the duration and intensity of the pain.

Endometriosis has a negative influence on the physical, psychological, and social aspects of a patient's life; therefore, it affects the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The current review aimed to investigate the efficiency of a 36-item generic questionnaire survey (SF-36) for patients with endometriosis who were undergoing medical or surgical treatment. A search strategy including the key words ‘endometriosis’, ‘quality of life’ (QOL), and ‘questionnaire SF-36’ was applied using the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases in order to include articles that evaluated the QOL among women with endometriosis using the SF-36. Only articles that included interviews of patients both before and after surgical or medical endometriosis treatment or those articles that compared study groups were considered. The qualitative analysis was based on 37 articles, whereas the quantitative analysis utilized 14 articles. The research participants included 11,101 women, among whom 6,888 patients were diagnosed with endometriosis. The analysis recorded 17 studies dealing with all types of endometriosis, 9 studies dealing with deep infiltrative endometriosis (DIE), and 9 studies dealing with bowel endometriosis or DIE with bowel involvement. QOL was evaluated using only SF-36 in 12 studies that collectively included 1,912 women and using SF-36 in association with other questionnaires in 25 studies that collectively included 8,022 women. For patients with endometriosis, physical functioning [odds ratio (OR), 78.87; 95% confidence interval (CI), 68.97-88.77; I2=98.77%; P≤0.001] was the most affected life parameter. This parameter showed the highest improvement after surgical intervention (OR, 63.39; 95% CI, 48.71-78.07; I2=97.65%; P≤0.001) or hormonal treatment (OR, 38.65; 95% CI, 14.39-62.91; I2=38.65%; P≤0.001). The 36-item survey generic questionnaire seems to be an efficient tool for assessment of the QOL of life of women with endometriosis who are undergoing surgical or medical treatment. It can be applied before and after the procedure, and it can also be used for comparing study groups.

The incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related head and neck cancer (HNSCC) is rising globally, presenting challenges for optimized clinical management. To date, it remains unclear which biomarker best reflects HPV-driven carcinogenesis, a process that is associated with better therapeutic response and outcome compared to tobacco/alcohol-induced cancers. Six potential HPV surrogate biomarkers were analyzed using FFPE tissue samples from 153 HNSCC patients (n = 78 oropharyngeal cancer (OPSCC), n = 35 laryngeal cancer, n = 23 hypopharyngeal cancer, n = 17 oral cavity cancer): p16, CyclinD1, pRb, dual immunohistochemical staining of p16 and Ki67, HPV-DNA-PCR, and HPV-DNA-in situ hybridization (ISH). Biomarkers were analyzed for correlation with one another, tumor subsite, and patient survival. P16-IHC alone showed the best performance for discriminating between good (high expression) vs poor outcome (low expression, p = 0.0030) in OPSCC patients. Additionally, HPV-DNA-ISH (p = 0.0039), HPV-DNA-PCR (p = 0.0113), and p16-Ki67 dual stain (p = 0.0047) were significantly associated with prognosis in uni- and multivariable analysis for oropharyngeal cancer. In the non-OPSCC group, however, none of the aforementioned surrogate markers was prognostic. Taken together, P16-IHC as a single biomarker displays the best diagnostic accuracy for prognosis stratification in OPSCC patients with a direct detection of HPV-DNA by PCR or ISH as well as p16-Ki67 dual stain as potential alternatives.

This video demonstrates the use of a microsurgical temporary vascular clip system to facilitate laparoscopic enucleation of uterine fibroids. Throughout the course of the last three decades, the laparoscopic route has been established as the approach of choice in the surgical treatment of uterine fibroids. Laparoscopic fibroid enucleation is characterized by a low morbidity rate and a high patient satisfaction level. Especially when treating a large fibroid or multiple fibroids, the well-vascularized myometrium can constitute a technical challenge in endoscopic fibroid enucleation. Diffuse bleeding may lead to significant intraoperative hemorrhage. The extensive use of bipolar or monopolar diathermy, in order to achieve hemostasis, might lead to post-operative uterine wall necrosis with a potential risk of uterine rupture during subsequent pregnancies. To address this clinical challenge, we developed a technique with temporary interruption of the uterine blood supply by applying a microsurgical vascular clip (Yasargil vascular clip system, Aesculap, Tuttlingen, Germany) to the uterine artery and the utero-ovarian vessel arcade to minimize bleeding during endoscopic fibroid enucleation.

To evaluate a simulation-based standardized training program for type 1 loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) under direct colposcopic vision in postgraduate teaching. Seventeen participants (five experienced and 12 novice surgeons) performed 170 simulated cervical excisional procedures. Each participant performed 10 type 1 (cone length between 8 and 10 mm) excisional procedures under direct colposcopic vision on a low-fidelity simulator. Length of specimen was measured after each excision allowing the surgeons a subsequent resection to ensure a cone length of more than 8 mm. Main outcome measures were cone length, specimen fragmentation, and a self-developed score (LEEP score), which allowed the simultaneous evaluation of both measured parameters. The precision of the excision showed statistically significant improvement in the novice group during the training procedures after five procedures [LEEP score 1.61 (SD 1.34) vs. 0.46 (SD 0.58); p = 0.023], while experts showed consistently high performance. Inexperienced surgeons performed more frequently cuts that were too deep than experienced surgeons (33/120, 27.5% vs. 4/50, 8%; p = 0.003). Low-fidelity simulation training seems to be an effective method for learning the accurate cone length for a type 1 excision for novice surgeons. As excessive excisions are related with high risk for premature delivery in subsequent pregnancies, in our opinion, LEEP should be practiced in simulation training, especially before performing in woman of reproductive age.

The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to validate patient’s satisfaction and surgical complication rate in patients treated at a certified endometriosis centre with personal patient care (PPC). The implementation of PPC at a gynaecologic treatment centre was retrospectively evaluated by analysing perioperative complications using the Clavien Dindo (CD) classification and patient satisfaction utilizing the Picker Patient Experience Questionnaire (PPE-15) for a total of 219 symptomatic endometriosis patients treated surgically at a certified endometriosis centre (Agaplesion Diakonie Hospital, Kassel, Germany) between November 2018 and April 2019. Data from our sample on complication rates and satisfaction were compared with those from reference samples published by Radosa et al. and Jenkinson et al. An overall complication rate of 10.96% (24 out of 219 patients) was observed. Four endometriosis patients (1.83%) had major complications with complications grade III according to the CD classification system. 155 patients out of 219 chose to answer the PPE-15 (return rate 70.78%). 92 patients (59.35%) reported about problems during their treatment in our hospital in their PPE-15. “Doctors sometimes talked as if I was not here” was the best rated item (1.2%) in our cohort. “Staff gave conflicting information” was the most mentioned item (33.55%) by patients during their hospital stay in relation to patient dissatisfaction. Incorporation of PPC in the surgical inpatient treatment of endometriosis patients resulted in a low postoperative complication rate and a high patient satisfaction in our study cohort. Furthermore, nursing staff of endometriosis patients also needs particular attention.

To assess the change of body mass index (BMI), muscle mass, visceral and subcutaneous fat in patients with metastatic breast cancer. In this retrospective chart analysis, patients with metastatic breast cancer as initial diagnosis between 2012 and 2016 were analyzed. Patients had received either chemotherapy (CTH) or endocrine therapy (ETH) according to the German S3 Guideline. BMI was calculated from the patients’ weight and height. Change of muscle mass, visceral and subcutaneous fat was determined by comparing the surface area of these tissues on transverse CT images at the level of the third lumbar vertebrae (L3) at baseline and during treatment. A total of 45 patients were included in the study, 29 on CTH and 16 on ETH. BMI, visceral and subcutaneous fat remained stable over time for both treatment groups. When taking both treatment groups together, muscle mass decreased significantly by 5.0 ± 2.5 cm2 per year (p

There are two groups of undergraduate students involved in endoscopic surgery with different degrees of experience: average and more experience. This study proves whether the subjective impression of the laparoscopic trainer is verifiable and which factors influence extreme talent. 21 medical students of the eighth term of the University of Witten-Herdecke participated in the study. On their first course day, students got instructed in suturing and knot technique. They were then required to tie a maximum of five knots within 2 h. After a week, students repeated this procedure. Time used for tying knots was stopped. Regarding the time students used for their first knots, great differences were provable (7–8 min, average 23 min). However, an adaption of the knotting time was noticed at the end of the first course day. This was confirmed during the second course day. Neither acquired factors (music, sport, etc.) nor individual factors (visual acuity, handedness, etc.) had any impact on the time used for knotting. Merely, one advantage was seen with the first knots with the factors of playing the guitar and having a more than 10-h surgical previous experience. Knotting times leveled off at 95% to less than 10 min, though. Neither normally talented nor extremely talented junior surgeons could be noticed, and so could not the co-factors providing an advantage or disadvantage for surgery, respectively. All prospective surgeons can learn defined tasks (knots) by short interval training, and thus show similarly good results after a few repetitions.

Estimating distant recurrence risk in women with estrogen receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative early breast cancer is still challenging. EndoPredict® is a gene expression-based test predicting the likelihood of recurrent disease. We analyzed the difference in oncological decision making with and without the knowledge of gene expression tests. This is a retrospective analysis including patients diagnosed with hormone-receptor positive, Her2 negative breast cancer between 2011 and 2015 at the Municipal Breast Cancer Centre Cologne, Germany. All patients received an evaluation by EndoPredict®. An oncological tumor board (TB) with knowledge of these results served as a baseline (control group). This baseline was compared to the treatment decision (adjuvant chemotherapy yes vs. no) made by oncologists with different experience levels (less than 5 years, between 5 and 15 years, and more than 15 years) who were not provided the EndoPredict® scores. All clinicians had access to clinical as well to histopathological data. There was no significant difference between control group and the oncologists with different experience levels concerning a chemotherapy indication. A trend could be shown in the subgroup of nodal negative patients between the treatment recommendation and physicians with more than 15 years of experience (p = 0.088). A further trend could be demonstrated in the subgroup of patients with a low Ki67 index (≤ 14%) (p = 0.063) between physician with 5–10 years of clinical experience and official treatment recommendation. It seems that inexperienced physicians may profit from the use of EndoPredict® to avoid an overtreatment. In nodal negative patients and patients with a low Ki67 index, undertreatment can be avoided with the use of EndoPredict® (borderline significance). Further prospective studies with larger study cohorts are needed to further validate this tool.

Primary and secondary sterility have become an issue of increasing importance due to demographic and social changes in society. Data regarding the association between female androgen levels and the probability of successful conception after fertility treatment are sparse and contradictive. This study was designed to assess this clinical question. In this retrospective single-center cohort study concentrations of androgens androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosteronsulfat (DHEAS) and testosterone (ng/ml) were investigated in the serum of patients presenting for sterility at the department of reproductive medicine of Saarland University hospital Homburg between January 2015 and December 2017. Androgen levels were correlated with reproductive outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed with the aid of SPSS version 24. Significance for conception rates in dependence of androgen concentration was assessed using Kruskal–Wallis test (significance was estimated with p

Purpose Many different surgical approaches have been established for the repair of a pelvic organ prolapse. Especially in laparoscopic surgery, it is important to generate easy surgical techniques with similar stability. This study shall simplify the choice of mesh by evaluating three polypropylene meshes regarding their biomechanical properties. Methods Biomechanical testing was performed in the porcine model. The meshes are fixated on porcine fresh cadaver cervices after subtotal hysterectomy. The apical part of the mesh is fixated with parallel screw clamps at the testing frame. Forty-one trials were performed overall, subdivided into four subgroups. The groups differ in mesh type and fixation method. Maximum load, displacement at failure and stiffness parameters were evaluated with an Instron 5565® test frame. Results SERATEX® E11 PA (E11) showed the highest values for maximum load (199 ± 29N), failure displacement (71 ± 12 mm) and stiffness (3.93 ± 0.59 N/mm). There was no significant difference in all three evaluated parameters between SERATEX® B3 PA (B3) and SERATEX® SlimSling® with bilateral fixation (SSB). SERATEX® SlimSling® with unilateral fixation (SSU) had the lowest stiffness (0.91 ± 0.19 N/mm) and maximum load (30 ± 2 N) but no significant difference in displacement at failure. Conclusion All meshes achieved a good tensile strength, but the results of maximum load show that the E11 is superior to the other meshes. Through a bilateral fixation of SERATEX® SlimSling®, a simple operating method is generated without a loss of stability.

Purpose The aims of this study were to determine the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications of laparoscopic gynecological interventions and to identify risk factors for such complications. Methods All patients who underwent laparoscopic interventions from September 2013 to September 2017 at the Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Hospital were identified retrospectively using a prospectively compiled clinical database. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for intra- and postoperative complications. Results Data from 3351 patients were included in the final analysis. Overall, 188 (5.6%) intraoperative and 219 (6.5%) postoperative complications were detected. On multivariate analysis, age [odds ratio (OR), 1.03; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.04], surgery duration (OR, 1.02; 95% CI 1.02–1.03), carbon dioxide use (OR, 0.99; 95% CI 0.99–1.00), and surgical indication (all p ≤ 0.01) were independent risk factors for intraoperative and duration of surgery (OR, 1.01; 95% CI 1.01–1.02; p ≤ 0.01), carbon dioxide use (OR, 0.99; 95% CI 0.99–1.00; p ≤ 0.01), hemoglobin drop (OR, 1.41; 95% CI 1.21–1.65; p ≤ 0.01), and ASA status (p = 0.04) for postoperative complications. Conclusion In this large retrospective analysis with a generally low incidence of complications (5.6% intraoperative and 6.5% postoperative complications), a representative risk collective was identified: Patients aged > 38 years, surgery duration > 99 min, benign or malignant adnex findings were at higher risk for intraoperative and patients with surgery duration > 94 min, hemoglobin drop > 2 g/dl and ASA status III at higher risk for postoperative complications.

Purpose To assess changes in the pelvic floor anatomy that cause pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) in primigravidae during and after pregnancy and to evaluate their impact on women’s quality of life (QoL). Methods POP-Q and translabial ultrasound examination was performed in the third trimester and 3 months after delivery in a cohort of primigravidae with singleton pregnancy delivering in a tertiary center. Results were analyzed regarding mode of delivery and other pre- and peripartal factors. Two individualized detailed questionnaires were distributed at 3 months and at 12 months after childbirth to determinate QoL. Results We recruited 45 women, of whom 17 delivered vaginally (VD), 11 received a vacuum extraction delivery (VE) and 17 a Cesarean section in labor (CS). When comparing third-trimester sonography to 3 months after delivery, bladder neck mobility increased significantly in each delivery group and hiatal area increased significantly in the VD group. A LAM avulsion was found in two women after VE. Connective tissue weakness (p = 0.0483) and fetal weight at birth (p = 0.0384) were identified as significant risk factors for the occurrence of PFDs in a multivariant regression analysis. Urinary incontinence was most common with 15% and 11% of cases at 3, respectively, 12 months after delivery. 42% of women reported discomfort during sexual intercourse, 3 months after delivery and 24% 12 months postpartum. Although 93% of women engage a midwife after delivery, only 56% participated in pelvic floor muscle training. Conclusion Connective tissue weakness and high fetal weight at birth are important risk factors for the occurrence of PFDs. Nevertheless, more parturients should participate in postpartal care services to prevent future PFDs.

Background Preeclampsia remains a major cause of perinatal and maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is known to be critically involved in placenta development processes. Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a key regulator of this transduction pathway. The aim of this study is to compare maternal serum DKK1 levels and placental mRNA levels of DKK1 and β-catenin in preeclamptic and normal pregnant women at delivery. Methods The present study included 30 women with preeclampsia and 30 women with normal pregnancy. Maternal serum DKK1 levels were measured by ELISA. Placental mRNA levels of DKK1 and β-catenin were detected using RT-PCR. Results Decreased maternal serum DKK1 levels were associated with worse maternal and fetal complications including HELLP syndrome, determination of one or more pathological symptom and IUGR diagnosis. No significant difference in maternal serum DKK1 levels was reported between preeclamptic women and women with normal pregnancy. Placental mRNA DKK1 levels were lower in preeclamptic women compared with normal pregnant women. Placental mRNA β-catenin levels showed no significant difference between two groups. Conclusions Our findings reported the aberrant placental mRNA DKK1 levels in patients with preeclampsia. In addition, worse preeclampsia features were associated with decreased maternal serum DKK1 levels. Hence, aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling might present a plausible mechanism in preeclampsia pathogenicity. Dysregulated expression of DKK1 at gene level in the placenta but not at protein level in the maternal serum might confirm the notion that preeclampsia is a type of placenta-derived disease.

Purpose Vaginal cuff dehiscence (VCD) is one of the major surgical complications following hysterectomy with data on incidence rates varying largely and studies assessing risk factors being sparse with contradictive results. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence rate of and risk factors for VCD in a homogenous cohort of women treated for benign uterine pathologies via total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) with standardized follow-up. Methods All patients undergoing TLH at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Saarland University Hospital between November 2010 and February 2019 were retrospectively identified from a prospectively maintained service database. Results VCD occurred in 18 (2.9%) of 617 patients included. In univariate and multivariate analyses, a lower level of surgeon laparoscopic expertise (odds ratio 3.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0–9.38; p = 0.03) and lower weight of removed uterus (odds ratio 0.99, 95% CI 0.98–0.99; p = 0.02) were associated positively with the risk of VCD. Conclusion In this homogenous cohort undergoing TLH, laparoscopic expertise and uterine weight influenced the risk of postoperative VCD. These findings might help to further reduce the rate of this complication.

Background: Breast cancer has traditionally been considered to have a low immunogenic potential compared to other tumor entities. Summary: The most extensively studied immunotherapeutic agents for breast cancer to date are immune checkpoint inhibitors, with the results of the IMpassion130 trial leading to the approval of atezolizumab plus nab-paclitaxel for first-line treatment of programmed cell death ligand 1-positive, metastatic, triple-negative breast cancer, and studies in earlier stages have yielded promising results. Other immunotherapeutic options being assessed in phases 2 and 3 trials include vaccine-based therapies and treatment with anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (H-directed immune-linked antibodies) and substances evaluated in early clinical trials as cellular therapies (adoptive cell therapy and chimeric antigen receptor T cells). Key Messages: Immunotherapy is an emerging modality for the treatment of breast cancer, as evidenced by the plethora of preclinical and clinical concepts and ongoing trials. Early studies established the role of immunotherapeutic agents in the metastatic setting. Ongoing studies will expand our knowledge about the timing of administration, best partners for combination therapy, and predictive biomarkers to guide immunotherapy for breast cancer.

The frequency and significance of sterility is increasing due to different socio-demographic factors in the industrialized countries. At the same time, the patients’ demand for more natural and less invasive fertility treatments is increasing. The most common method used in subfertility is intrauterine insemination (IUI). Retrospectively, the data from the patients were analyzed, in which at least one insemination and a maximum of eight inseminations were performed in the last five years (observation period 01.01.2014–31.12.2018) at the Women’s University Hospital Homburg. The primary endpoint was the onset of a clinical pregnancy. Clinical pregnancy was correlated with the partner’s total sperm count (sperm density in millions), sperm concentration and motility during insemination. These three parameters were evaluated according the World Health Organization (WHO) 2010 guidelines. The results of the spermiograms were correlated with clinical pregnancy outcome. The data were examined for 138 women with sterility, in which a total of 345 inseminations were performed (median 2.5 per woman, range 8 inseminations). There was no correlation found between spermiogram parameters and pregnancy probability in any of the inseminations. After 5 inseminations no further pregnancy occurred. The present study showed no correlation between the conception probability of intrauterine insemination (IUI) and the total sperm count/concentration/motility. After the sixth IUI, we no longer found conceptions in our patient collective. Therefore, data from this study indicate that intrauterine inseminations can be performed at all severity levels of oligoasthenozoospermia. However, the treatment should be limited to five attempts.

We address the impact of applying loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) under direct colposcopic vision teaching to our undergraduates using a self-developed simulation model and a standardized assessment to evaluate the progress of learning. The undergraduate teaching module was composed of a theoretical course on cervical dysplasia, colposcopy, electrosurgery and excisional procedures of the uterine cervix. This was followed by hands-on practical rounds. During the hands-on practice the students performed five “type 1” LEEP under direct colposcopic vision on the self-developed simulator. Based on specimen fragmentation and excision accuracy a score system was established. The students were asked to answer a course evaluation questionnaire. The accuracy of the excisions showed a statistically significant improvement during the five training procedures (excision depth 7.34 ± 1.60–8.54 ± 1.67 mm, p = 0.0041; deviation from target cone thickness 0.88 ± 1.16–0.13 ± 0.94 mm, p = 0.0116). The fragmentation of the conus decreased (2.57 ± 1.26–1.29 ± 0.60 pieces, p

Background Retention of products of conception (RPOC) following delivery is rare. Clinicians often have the impression that a high proportion of patients with sonographically suspected RPOC following surgery have a negative histopathology. Hence, we aimed to report our single-center experience with suspected RPOC and histopathological outcome after surgery. Patients and methods In this retrospective analysis, patients who underwent surgery due to suspected postpartum RPOC were analyzed for potential predictive clinical and sonographic parameters. Results A total of 32 patients with histopathologically-confirmed RPOC were compared with 21 patients with a negative histopathological report for RPOC. Endometrial hyperechogenic mass and clinical parameters such as pain, fever and bleedings were not predictive for RPOC. Increased age (p=0.001) and vaginal delivery (p=0.040) were significantly associated with RPOC. Conclusion Clinical presentation alone is not predictive for RPOC. Vaginal delivery and younger age seem to be a risk factor and therefore have to be considered in patients with suspected RPOC.

To evaluate the prognostic potential of vimentin, p53, EGFR, CK5/6, CK 14, and CK 17 in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Tumor specimens of 60 patients with histologically confirmed TNBC were retrospectively analyzed. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks of the tumor tissue were used to prepare tissue microarrays (TMAs). After immune-histochemical staining, protein expression of vimentin, p53, EGFR, CK5/6, CK 14, and CK 17 was determined and the immunoreactive score (IRS) was calculated. The protein expression was correlated to overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Ninety percent of patients suffered from an invasive ductal carcinoma T1 or T2, 66.7% were N0, and 70% had a G3 tumor with Ki67 of > 14%. Vimentin expression was found in 28/60 patients (46.7%), p53 expression in 30/60 patients (50%), and EGFR expression in 3/60 patients (5%). CK5/6, CK14, and CK17 expression was found in 60.0%, 63.3%, and 66.7%, respectively. Vimentin expression vs no expression was associated with significantly higher mean Ki67 values (52.5% vs. 31.1%; p = 0.0013) and significantly higher p53 expression (67.9% vs. 34.4%; p = 0.0097). No significant association between vimentin expression and OS (p = 0.7710) or DFS (p = 0.5558) was found during a mean follow-up of 92 months. None of the six proteins proved to be suitable prognostic factors for OS and DSF in patients with TNBC.

In the previous studies, we demonstrated that Sec62 is essential for tumor cell migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and intracellular stress tolerance. An increase in Sec62 expression correlated with an increase in cervical dysplasia severity in liquid-based cytology specimens. Ki67 is an established proliferation marker. Thus, in this study, we examined a method of Sec62/Ki67 dual staining for the detection of high-grade dysplasia and cancer in cervical liquid-based cytology specimens. Sec62/Ki67 dual staining was performed on 100 cervical liquid-based cytology specimens. The staining results were correlated with cytological, immunocytological (p16/Ki67), colposcopic, and histological findings. All 56 (n = 56, 100%) cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 and cervical cancer (CIN3+ lesions) were positive for Sec62/Ki67 staining, while low-grade lesions and normal cells were negative. Sec62/Ki67 staining was highly sensitive and specific for the detection of CIN2+ and CIN3+ lesions (94.37%; 100% and 100%; 84.09%, respectively). Sec62/Ki67 dual-staining immunocytochemistry is a promising cytological tool for interpreting high-grade squamous lesions in cytological specimens and for assessing the risk of progression to cancer.

To evaluate instrumental usage in laparoscopic gynecological surgeries and to develop key timesets of a laparoscopic operation, which allows categorization of the operation time into different sections. In this prospective clinical observational study, frequency of instrument usage, time for instrument switches, and instrument utilization time were recorded in a standardized manner for laparoscopic surgeries in 103 endoscopic surgeries. A standard equipment (including atraumatic grasping forceps, irrigation and suction device, bipolar clamp, and laparoscopic scissors) was used for nearly all interventions. Bipolar clamps and scissors were changed most frequently. The tool used for the longest amount of time was the atraumatic grasping forceps. Laparoscopic instruments were switched 51 times per surgery (range 2–250 times). One instrument switch lasted for a median of 0.13 min (0.08–1.2 min). Median time for instrument switch for a single surgery added up to 6.83 min. Instrument switches required 10.5% of the overall operation time. We analyzed the current instrument usage in laparoscopic gynecological surgeries. The results of our standardized investigation suggest ways to reduce the time required for surgery and provide starting points for the standardization of the work routine.

The purpose of this survey was to assess the opinions of members of the German Society of Gynecologic Endoscopy (AGE) regarding the laparoscopic treatment of ovarian malignancies and current practice at their institutions. Between February and October 2015, the AGE sent an anonymous online survey via mail to its members. The questionnaire solicited participants’ opinions about the laparoscopic treatment of ovarian cancers according to T stage and borderline tumors, and information about current practice at their institutions. Participants were also asked their opinions on currently available data on this issue. Of 228 AGE members who completed the survey, 132 (58%) were fellows or attending physicians and 156 (68%) worked at university hospitals or tertiary referral centers. Most [212 (93%)] respondents stated that