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Rationale: Cellular uterine leiomyomas (CL) represent the prevailing subtype among uterine leiomyomas. In this study, we report a case of recurrent peritoneal disseminated uterine fibroids 2 years after single-port laparoscopic gasless myomectomy. This article endeavors to examine the potential limitations of the aforementioned surgical procedure and outline the distinguishing features of recurrent cases with primary postoperative pathology as CL. Additionally, it aims to provide a summary of previous retrospective studies on CL and propose the existence of immunohistochemical molecules that may serve as predictors for the postoperative recurrence of cellular uterine fibroids. The ultimate objective is to enhance clinicians' comprehension of the disease., Patient Concerns: Two years ago, the patient underwent a single-port gasless laparoscopic myomectomy for uterine fibroids. Gynecological color Doppler ultrasound conducted 3 months ago revealed recurrence of uterine fibroids, and the patient experienced abdominal distension, mild urinary frequency, and constipation for the past month., Diagnoses: After the second surgical procedure, a comprehensive pathological examination and immunohistochemical analysis of both the uterine mass and metastatic lesions revealed that the definitive diagnosis was CLs., Interventions: The patient underwent the total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingectomy, pelvic adhesiolysis, omental mass resection, mesenteric mass resection, and pelvic peritoneal mass resection. All specimens were sent for rapid frozen examination and showed to be leiomyomas., Outcomes: The patient was discharged from the hospital on the 10th day after the operation. At the date of writing the article, the patient had no recurrence for 1 year and 5 months., Lessons: The single-port gasless approach did not achieve the desired reduction in fibroid recurrence, as anticipated by the surgeon. The act of pulling the tumor towards the abdominal incision for resection, on the contrary, may serve as an iatrogenic factor contributing to postoperative recurrence of CL into peritoneal dissemination leiomyomatosis. The single-port gasless assisted bag may be a more suitable option for myomectomy. The utmost effort should be made to prevent the potential recurrence of myoma caused by iatrogenic factors., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Study Objective: To show laparoscopic management of disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis (DPL)., Design: Stepwise demonstration of the technique with narrated video footage., Setting: DPL is characterized by dissemination and proliferation of peritoneal and subperitoneal lesions primarily originating from smooth muscle cells [1]. Generally considered benign, cases of malignant transformation to leiomyosarcoma have been reported [2,3]. Iatrogenic DPL occurs because of unconfined morcellation resulting in small fragments of myoma that may implant on any organ and start deriving blood supply from it or may be pulled into port site while withdrawing laparoscopic cannulas [4]. It is estimated that the overall incidence of DPL after laparoscopic uncontained morcellation was 0.12% to 0.95% [5]. Mainstay of treatment is surgical resection of myomas and regular follow-up with imaging. A 28-year-old unmarried girl presented with complain of lump abdomen increasing in size for 1 year. She also complained of a 15 kg weight loss in the last 1 year; 4 years ago, patient had undergone laparoscopic myomectomy with unconfined morcellation for a 10 × 8 cm cervical myoma. Presently her menses were regular with a 28-day cycle and 3 to 4 days' average flow. Magnetic resonance imaging showed multiple nodular lesions of varying sizes in relation to small bowel, colon, uterus, and anterior abdominal wall  suggestive of DPL. Bilateral ovaries were normal. Tumor markers were as follows: CA 125 23.2 (<35) U/mL Carcinoembryonic antigen 1.67 (<8) ng/mL CA 19-9 47 (<37) U/mL Lactate dehydrogenase 809 (180-360) IU/L Alpha-fetoprotein 2.03 (<10) ng/mL Beta human chorionic gonadotropin 1.2(<2) mIU/mL Tru-cut biopsy was done elsewhere to rule out peritoneal carcinomatosis in view of raised CA 19-9 and lactate dehydrogenase, history of weight loss, and imaging showing multiple abdominal masses. Histopathological examination showed leiomyomatosis and immunohistochemistry for smooth muscle actin, desmin, and vimentin were positive., Interventions: On laparoscopy the abdominal cavity was found studded with multiple leiomyomas of varying sizes deriving blood supply from ilium, transverse, descending and sigmoid colon, rectum, left tube, left ovary, pouch of Douglas, bilateral uterosacrals, uterovesical fold, and anterior abdominal wall. Large blood vessels were seen traversing between the descending and sigmoid colon and the myomas. Principles of surgery were as follows: 1. Complete removal of myomas 2. Cauterization of blood vessels feeding the parasitic myomas to minimize blood loss 3. Disscetion abutting the myoma to prevent injury to adjacent viscera. A total of 26 myomas were removed. All the myomas were retrieved by morcellation in a bag. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse peritoneal leiomyomatosis. Follow-up ultrasound at 6 months showed no recurrence of leiomyomatosis., Conclusion: Proper mapping of lesions and surgery for complete removal of all masses is the mainstay of treatment. Contained morcellation in bag should be the norm to prevent iatrogenic DPL. Regular follow-up with imaging is required to rule out recurrence., (Copyright © 2023 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Study Objective: To show the challenging diagnosis of, and safe robotic surgical approach to, a rare case of disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis (DPL)., Design: A clinical case shown by a sequential demonstration of investigation, diagnosis, and surgical approach, with narrated video footage., Setting: DPL is a rare disease, with only a little more than 150 cases reported in the literature [1]. It is defined by subperitoneal proliferation of benign smooth muscle cell nodules, macroscopically mimicking peritoneal carcinomatosis [2]. The etiology remains unclear, but different hypotheses have been put forward, such as subperitoneal mesenchymal stem cell metaplasia and iatrogenic origin after myomectomy [3]. Despite its usual benign behavior, DPL can rarely present with malignant degeneration, and therefore a complete resection of multiple lesions is recommended [4]. This case involves a 45-year-old patient presenting with dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain, and major abnormal uterine bleeding, requiring previous blood transfusion and no response after 2 years of clinical treatment. She had a previous cesarean delivery, with no reproductive desire at present and no history of other pelvic surgeries. Pelvic examination showed an enlarged mobile uterus at the height of the pubic symphysis, and both ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed an enlarged uterus due to multiple myomas., Interventions: (1) Diagnostic laparoscopy with implant biopsies and uterine curettage for investigation of DPL and its differential diagnoses, followed by robot-assisted laparoscopic approach, with key strategies for a safe performance. (2) Radical hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, and wide pelvic peritoneal resection were performed. (3) For this complex procedure, the identification and preservation of important landmarks and pelvic anatomy were mandatory, as well as removal of all surgical specimens in monobloc. Final pathology report: disseminated leiomyomatosis with no evidence of malignancy. The patient had no complications after surgery and was discharged on the second postoperative day with mild abdominal pain., Conclusion: DPL diagnosis can be tricky owing to its macroscopic similarity to peritoneal carcinomatosis and the difficulty of identification in imaging examinations. Moreover, the robotic platform can be a helpful and safe tool for the surgical treatment of DPL and complete resection of all peritoneal lesions., (Copyright © 2021 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The aim of this study is to report a case of parasitic leiomyoma in a brief literature report., Case Report: A 40-year-old woman was repeatedly examined for chronic abdominal pain in 2020. Lesions presented on CT images showed suspicion of carcinomatosis or endometriosis. Her past history is a laparoscopic myomectomy and hysteroscopic transcervical resection of myoma., Conclusion: Parasitic leiomyoma or leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata is an extremely rare variant of uterine leiomyoma occurring outside the uterus. According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetric classification, parasitic leiomyoma has been classified as type 8. Previous laparoscopic myomectomy with intraperitoneal morcellation has been implicated in its etiology. The most common symptom - if present, is abdominal pain, pressure, bloating during eating or nausea.

Background: Disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis (DPL) is a rare, generally benign disorder. With the advent of laparoscopic surgery for uterine fibroids, the reported number of cases of DPL has significantly increased since the introduction of unconfined power morcellation. Morcellation and other procedures may be associated with DPL., Methods: We present the case of a 48-year-old patient with DPL who underwent uterine artery embolization (UAE), laparoscopic myomectomy and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) 11 years, 6 years, and 2 years before the final diagnosis of DPL was made. A subtotal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy was performed to remove the uterus, the fallopian tube and the ovaries. We carefully excised as many visible lesions as possible., Results: After the surgical treatment performed in our center the patient became free of symptoms., Conclusion: In our case, the occurrence of DPL is most likely associated with laparoscopic myomectomy using power morcellation. In addition, it should be noted whether some other factors played a role in stimulating the growth of the multiple nodules.

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features, treatment and prognosis of leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD). Methods: A total of 10 patients suffered from LPD after laparoscopic uterine myomectomy were collected in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from September 2012 to September 2016, and all clinical database were retrospectively analyzed. Results: (1)Clinical features: the age of 10 cases was 25-50 years old, and 8 cases of them were in child-bearing age, while 2 cases were in perimenopausal period. Of 10 cases, 2 cases manifested as discontinuous lower abdominal pain, and the other cases were seen the doctor for the examinations found tumors of pelvis or abdomen. All 10 cases had a history of laparoscopic uterine myomectomy under went power morcellation with an average of (4.0±2.2) years (range 1.3 to 8.1 years), 2 cases of them had a history of oral hormone treatment after the first myoma morcellation. (2) Treatment methods and postoperative pathologic diagnosis: during intraoperative exploration, LPD nodules were most distributed in Douglas pouch (10 cases), and next in mesentery (7 cases), abdominal peritoneum (6 cases) and omentum majus (4 cases), etc. Seven of the 8 cases of child-bearing age were performed laparoscopic LPD nodules removal, 1 case gone combined with laparotomy and resecting LPD nodules; 2 cases in perimenopausal period done laparotomy oophorotomy and resected all LPD nodules and omentum. (3) Postoperative relapse and reproductive outcomes: the follow-up time of all cases was 2.8 years, and no recurrence was found during the follow-up period; 2 cases had natural conception and term vaginal birth during the follow-up period. Conclusions: LPD is mainly related to iatrogenic planting and spreading, which is a benign disease and characterized by multiple smooth muscle nodules throughout abdominopelvic cavity, and the nodules of LPD is commonly located in Douglas pouch, mesenteric and omentaum majus, etc. The preferred method of LPD should be individual operative treatment according to different situations, and in which patients may be have better prognosis.

Objective: To report the use of augmented reality (AR) in gynecology., Design: AR is a surgical guidance technology that enables important hidden surface structures to be visualized in endoscopic images. AR has been used for other organs, but never in gynecology and never with a very mobile organ like the uterus. We have developed a new AR approach specifically for uterine surgery and demonstrated its use for myomectomy., Setting: Tertiary university hospital., Patient(s): Three patients with one, two, and multiple myomas, respectively., Intervention(s): AR was used during laparoscopy to localize the myomas., Main Outcome Measure(s): Three-dimensional (3D) models of the patient's uterus and myomas were constructed before surgery from T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. The intraoperative 3D shape of the uterus was determined. These models were automatically aligned and "fused" with the laparoscopic video in real time., Result(s): The live fused video made the uterus appear semitransparent, and the surgeon can see the location of the myoma in real time while moving the laparoscope and the uterus. With this information, the surgeon can easily and quickly decide on how best to access the myoma., Conclusion(s): We developed an AR system for gynecologic surgery and have used it to improve laparoscopic myomectomy. Technically, the software we developed is very different to approaches tried for other organs, and it can handle significant challenges, including image blur, fast motion, and partial views of the organ., (Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To assess the usefulness of 3-month treatment with ulipristal acetate (UPA) before laparoscopic myomectomy of large uterine myomas., Study Design: This retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database included women of reproductive age requiring laparoscopic myomectomy with the following characteristics: FIGO type 3, 4 or 5 myomas; largest diameter of the main myoma ≥10cm; number of myomas ≤3; largest diameters of the other myomas ≤5cm (second myoma) and ≤3cm (third myoma). Patients either underwent direct surgery (group S) or were treated before surgery with UPA for 3 months (group UPA)., Results: The mean (±SD) intraoperative blood loss was lower in group UPA (507.1±214.9ml) than in group S (684.2±316.8; p=0.012). The total operative time was lower in group UPA (137.6±26.8min) than in group S (159.7±26.8min; p<0.001); there was no significant difference in the suturing time between the two study groups (p=0.076). Hemoglobin drop was lower in group UPA (1.1±0.5g/dl) than in group S (1.3±0.7g/dl; p=0.034). Six patients in group S and no patient in group UPA required postoperative blood transfusions (p=0.031). Complications were not different between the two groups (p=0.726). Moreover, preoperative treatment with UPA caused a significant increase in hemoglobin levels (11.9±1.6g/dl) compared with baseline (9.1±1.1g/dl; p<0.001)., Conclusion: A 3-month treatment with UPA before laparoscopy for large uterine myomas decreases intraoperative blood loss, hemoglobin drop, postoperative blood transfusion and length of surgery., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Uterine artery occlusion is often used to treat symptomatic uterine myomas, as this is a minimally invasive approach. However, alternative methods for uterus-sparing therapy are in development. This study aimed to compare the clinical effects of laparoscopic uterine artery occlusion (LUAO) in combination with laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) with LM alone for the management of symptomatic uterine leiomyomas., Study Design: This multicentre study was a retrospective controlled investigation. In total, 618 patients with symptomatic uterine myomas from six hospitals in Eastern China underwent LUAO+LM or LM alone between June 2011 and December 2012. Operative time, blood loss, transfusion, highest temperature, postoperative hospital stay, complications and follow-up results were compared between the two groups., Results: Complete clinical data were available for 504 patients. Among these, 324 patients underwent LUAO+LM and 180 patients underwent LM alone. Mean±standard deviation blood loss, transfusion, highest peri-operative temperature and duration of hospital stay were significantly lower in the LUAO+LM group compared with the LM group (83.61±53.70ml vs 109±58.43ml, 1.85% vs 6.11%, 37.6±0.40°C vs 37.9±0.45°C and 5.11±0.62 days vs 6.10±0.83 days, respectively). The mean duration of follow-up was 38.97±5.82 months in the LUAO+LM group and 37.30±2.25 months in the LM group (p>0.05). The relief of abnormal uterine bleeding, reduction of uterine volume and recurrence of myomas were more remarkable in the LUAO+LM group than the LM group (97.22% vs 83.75%, 62.42% vs 51.83% and 3.47% vs 10.63%, respectively)., Conclusions: LUAO in combination with LM was associated with higher surgical quality, greater relief of abnormal symptoms and less recurrence of myomas compared with LM alone. LUAO in combination with LM is recommended for women with symptomatic uterine myomas who wish to preserve their uterus., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

We presented a case of 41-year-old patient underwent two laparoscopic Myomectomies and current laparotomy regarding suspection of necrotic leiomyoma. Intraoperative finding was suggestive of disseminated malignancy, but gefrir study showed benign smooth muscle tumors. The patient underwent total hysterectomy with right adnesectomy and total omentectomy. After histological and immunohistochemical study of the entire macroscopic material the final diagnosis was disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis. This disease is rare, but in recent years, in connection with the widespread introduction of laparoscopic surgery the reports of disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis occurring after laparoscopic morcellation, were frequent.

Background: Uterine morcellation is a technique used in gynecologic surgery to facilitate a laparoscopic approach to the removal of an enlarged uterus. The safety of this technique has been a source of recent debate, as uterine morcellation can result in the intraperitoneal dissemination of undiagnosed uterine malignancies., Cases: We report on three women who previously underwent minimally invasive hysterectomy and open power morcellation for benign disease, who subsequently presented with peritoneal implants highly suspicious for malignancy. Each woman required a laparotomy and extensive, multiorgan resection to clear the disease. Benign pathology was diagnosed in all cases., Conclusion: Even in the setting of benign conditions, open power morcellation of the uterus may be associated with clinically significant dissemination of uterine disease.

Introduction: Huge and multiple mesenteric fibroids (4,500 Kg weight) are very unusual. In many cases they are mistaken for subserosal fibroids of the womb due to the proximity with uterine walls. When they have a rapid growth, the risk of becoming malignant (sarcoma) has not to be underestimated. Surgery is challenging to remove abdominal nodes., Case Report: A case of a 40-year old woman, admitted to the hospital with abdominal masses occupying the entire cavity was reported. Both computerized tomography (CT) and ultrasounds (US) were not diriment for belonging of tumours. Clinical history of patient reports a laparoscopic removal of uterine fibroids, using the morcellator. Laparoscopy was performed four years before. Open surgery by means of a large transversal suprapubic laparotomy according to Pfannestiel was carried out. Multiple and huge mesenteric, peritoneal and intestinal tumours spread in the whole abdominal cavity were found, removed and examined by frozen section histology; in addition a series of small conglomerated myomas in the site of previous laparoscopic transumbilical route was taken away as well (the largest fibroid weighed Kg 3.500 and the all tumors removed 4,500 Kg); the result was benign (fibroids) and genital apparatus was preserved. Operation was challenging. Postoperative course was uneventful; after five days patient was discharged., Conclusions: This case is very interesting for many factors: A) many extra-uterine fibroids spread throughout abdominal cavity; B) considerable weight of the masses C) intraoperative and postoperative danger. Finally, due to involvement of previous laparoscopic transumbilical incision together with other findings, the hypothesis of post laparoscopic dissemination has to be considered. A case of so large extragenital abdominal fibroids following laparoscopic uterine myomectomy has never been published so far.

Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata constitutes a rare pathology of an unkown etilogy. It is chararacterized by the appearence of multiple pelvic and abdominal nodules, which are basically composed of smooth muscle. The first case was published in 1952 by Wilson and Peale although was Tubert, in 1965, the first who identified this disease as a pathology. Currently, around 100 cases can be found in literature. We present, as far as we know, the first case resolved by laparoscopic technique plus gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist therapy.

Conservative surgical management of uterine prolapse with uterine conservation has become an alternative treatment in women who wish to maintain their uterus. Vaginal and abdominal approaches for uterine suspension have been described and reported. Certain concomitant pathologic conditions of the uterus such as uterine myomas have been considered in some patients to be a contraindication to conservative surgery. Herein we report the case of a 55-year-old woman with symptomatic uterine prolapse with multiple myomas who desired uterine preservation and was successfully treated via laparoscopic myomectomy and laparoscopic mesh sacrohysteropexy., (Copyright © 2013 AAGL. All rights reserved.)

A minimally invasive approach for gynecologic procedures has become popular in recent years. Despite the advantages of this kind of surgery over open technique, laparoscopic hysterectomy is not free of complications. A case of small bowel obstruction secondary to incomplete torsion of proximal ileum ten days after an uneventful total laparoscopic hysterectomy is reported. Partial small bowel obstruction (PSBO) is a rare complication after gynecologic laparoscopy; its post-operatory incidence is 0.036% within a month after. A clean, adequate surgical technique, with minimal manipulation of internal organs, reduces the risk of adhesive process and PSBO.

Parasitic myomas are rare and their ethiopathogenesis is uncertain. They may develop from a detached fibroid adhering to an extrauterine surface in order to obtain new blood supply. It has been stated that they form from uterine or myoma fragments left behind after morcellation in the abdominopelvic cavity and thus are called "iatrogenic". Surgeons must be aware of this recently reported complication related to the increasing number of laparoscopic procedures. Thorough inspection and washing of the abdominal cavity are recommended. A case of a patient with iatrogenic parasitic myomas, which appeared six years after a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy involving a morcellator, is reported.

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of finger-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy for multiple myomas., Study Design: A total of 565 patients with symptomatic myomas underwent finger-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy between January 2006 and March 2011 to remove multiple myomas at our center. Laparoscopic myomectomy technique was modified, and involved the insertion of two fingers into the vagina to elevate the uterus, while one or two fingers of the other hand were inserted into the abdomen through a suprapubic 15-mm trocar port for palpation of small myomas, which did not distort the uterine contour., Results: The mean (SD; range) patient age was 38.26 years (5.84; 25-48 years). The diameter of the largest myoma in each case was 6.13 cm (1.21; 4-15 cm). The total number of myomas enucleated in the initial enucleation was 2228. There were 597 additional myomas enucleated with finger-assisted guidance. The mean diameter of the additionally enucleated myomas was 1.1 cm (range, 0.2-2.5 cm), which was significantly smaller than those of the initially enucleated myomas (p=0.002). The mean operative time was 97.1 min (30.2; 35-180 min). The decrease in postoperative hemoglobin concentration was 1.6g/dL (0.7; 0.4-3.2g/dL). During the operation, no patients required a blood transfusion. Six patients developed postoperative fever. There was no occurrence of bowel or urinary tract injury. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.2 days (0.9; 2-6 d). All procedures were successfully completed without the need for laparotomy., Conclusions: Finger-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy is a feasible and safe approach in the surgical treatment of multiple myomas., (Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Herein are reported perioperative outcomes in 2 women who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy and hysterectomy to treat massive leiomyomas. Although we counseled the patients about the high risk of conversion to laparotomy, we would not have attempted the laparoscopic approach without a preoperative angiogram and transient uterine artery embolization. Preoperative angiography and selective embolization enable identification of an aberrant parasitic blood supply and minimization of intraoperative bleeding. In the appropriate hands, these tools make a minimally invasive surgical approach possible even for the largest myomatous specimens., (Copyright © 2012 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Our aim was to assess surgical complaints and reproductive outcomes of laparoscopic intracapsular myomectomies by a prospective observational study run in University affiliated hospitals., Methods: Between 2005 and 2010, 235 women underwent subserous and intramural laparoscopic myomectomy of fibroids (4-10 cm in diameter) for indications of pelvic pain, menstrual disorders, a large growing myoma or infertility. The main outcome measures were post-surgical parameters, including complications, the need for subsequent surgery or symptomatic relief, resumption of normal life and reproductive outcome., Results: Pelvic pain occurred in 27%, menorrhagia or metorrhagia in 21%, a large growing myoma in 10% and infertility in 42% of women. Single fibroids occurred in 51.9% of patients while 48.1% had multiple myomas. Of all patients, 58.2% had subserosal and 41.8% had intramural myomas. No laparoscopies were converted to laparotomy. In 3 years, 1.2% of patients had a second laparoscopic myomectomy for recurrent fibroids. The mean total operative laparoscopic time was 84 min (range 25-126 min), with mean blood loss of 118 ± 27.9 ml. By 48 h after surgery, 86.3% were discharged with no major post-operative complications. No late complications, such as bleeding, urinary tract infections or bowel lesions, occurred. Of the women who underwent myomectomy for infertility, 74% finally conceived. At term, 32.9% of patients underwent Caesarean section, 24.8% delivered by vacuum extractor and 42.2% had spontaneous deliveries. No case of uterine rupture occurred., Conclusions: Intracapsular subserous and intramural myomectomy saving the fibroid pseudocapsule showed few early and no late surgical complications, enhanced healing by preserving myometrial integrity and allowed a good fertility rate and delivery outcome. In young patients suffering fibroids, laparoscopic intracapsular myomectomy is a potential recommended surgical treatment.

Aim: To determine the feasibility of identifying the main trunk of the uterine artery by tracing its superior branch with a laparoscopic technique., Material and Methods: Ten patients with symptomatic myomas who had indication for surgical intervention were enrolled in this prospective nonrandomized study between November 2009 and February 2010.The uterine artery was identified by tracing its superior branch with a laparoscopic technique, and then performing occlusion of the uterine artery. Estimated uterus weight, operating time, blood loss, and intraoperative complications were recorded., Results: Bilateral uterine arteries were successfully isolated in all cases (n = 10) without intraoperative complications. The estimated uterine weight was 290 g (220-370 g). The operation time from the opening of anterior peritoneum of the broad ligament to the occlusion of unilateral uterine artery was 3 min (2.3-6 min). The volume of estimated blood loss was less than 10 mL., Conclusion: This pilot trial demonstrated that it was feasible to locate the main trunk of the uterine artery by tracing its superior branch. This technique provided a fast modality for laparoscopic surgery., (© 2011 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research © 2011 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.)

Objective: To assess the feasibility, safety, and operative outcomes of single-incision laparoscopic myomectomy with intracorporeal suturing., Design: Retrospective descriptive study., Setting: Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan., Patient(s): Twelve patients who underwent single-incision laparoscopic myomectomy between July 2009 and June 2010 to remove single or multiple uterine myomas., Intervention(s): All cases of single-incision laparoscopic myomectomy were performed by a single surgeon (N.Y.)., Main Outcome Measure(s): Technical feasibility and operative outcomes., Result(s): Cases consisted of six subserosal, four intramural, and two submucosal myomas. The mean operative time and weight of the largest myoma per patient were 100 minutes (range, 52-150 minutes) and 78 g (range, 15-284 g), respectively. Blood loss was minimal in all cases. All procedures were successfully performed, and there were no conversions to conventional multiport laparoscopy or open surgery. There were no postoperative complications or port-site hernias noted., Conclusion(s): We successfully performed single-incision laparoscopic myomectomy with intracorporeal suturing. Single-incision laparoscopic myomectomy with the glove wound retractor system is feasible and safe in select patients, and it provides almost no visible scar., (Copyright © 2011 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Study Objective: To estimate the effectiveness of unidirectional knotless barbed suture and continuous suture with intracorporeal knots in the repair of uterine wall defects during laparoscopic myomectomy., Design: Randomized clinical study (Canadian Task Force Classification I)., Setting: Single-center study in a university hospital., Patients: This study enrolled 44 women who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy., Interventions: In accord with to the randomization, the uterine wall defects were closed either with a continuous suture with intracorporeal knots (group V) or a unidirectional knotless barbed suture (group L)., Measurements and Main Results: The time required to suture the uterine wall defect was significantly lower in group L (11.5 ± 4.1 minutes) than in group V (17.4 ± 3.8 minutes; p <.001). However, no significant difference was observed in the operative time between the 2 study groups. The intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in group L than in group V (p =.004). The degree of surgical difficulty was significantly lower in group L (3.7 ± 1.1) than in group V (6.1 ± 2.1; p <.001)., Conclusion: The unidirectional knotless barbed suture may facilitate the suture of uterine wall defects during laparoscopic myomectomy. When compared with continuous suture and intracorporeal knots, the barbed suture reduces the time required to suture the uterine wall defect and the intraoperative blood loss., (Copyright © 2010 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Study Objective: To describe our experience in diagnosing and managing parasitic myomas developing as an unexpected late complication of laparoscopic morcellation., Design: Observational study (Canadian Task Force classification II-3)., Setting: University hospital., Patients: Retrospective chart review of all patients found to have parasitic myomas that developed after previous morcellation., Intervention: Laparoscopic morcellation. Review of the recent literature correlated with clinical, surgical, and pathologic features of our cases., Measurements and Main Results: Four patients had heterogeneous pelvic masses after morcellation. In 3 patients, symptoms developed between 2 and 16 years after the primary surgery. One patient had no symptoms, and was referred because of a suspect pelvic mass. Vaginal examination revealed painful pelvic masses in the pouch of Douglas in 2 patients, and painless masses fixed to the vaginal vault and anterior vaginal wall, respectively, in the other 2 patients. Laparoscopic examination confirmed the presence of parasitic masses in 3 patients. In 1 patient, the mass was excised vaginally. Histologic analysis confirmed leiomyoma fragments in all patients. A well-differentiated endometrial carcinoma was incidentally found in 1 patient after hysterectomy., Conclusion: These masses probably resulted from growth of missed fragments of uterine tissue after previous morcellation, culminating in development of symptomatic iatrogenic parasitic myomas. If morcellation is anticipated or required, exclusion of malignancy is mandatory. Meticulous inspection of the abdominal cavity is necessary after morcellation. In patients with a history of morcellation who have pelvic masses, iatrogenic parasitic myomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis., (Copyright © 2010 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Study Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of single-port laparoscopic myomectomy with transumbilical morcellation and suturing., Design: Continuing prospective study (Canadian Task Force classification II-3)., Setting: University hospital., Patients: Fifteen patients who underwent single-port laparoscopic myomectomy between September 2008 and October 2009 to remove single or multiple uterine myomas, at least 1 in each patient measuring greater than 4 cm in diameter., Interventions: All single-port laparoscopic myomectomy procedures were performed by a single surgeon (Dr. Y.W. Kim). Myomas were extracted transumbilically by cutting the myomas into smaller pieces with a knife or a conventional electromechanical morcellator. After making a single 1.5- to 2.0-cm umbilical incision, the single-port system, created with a wound retractor and a surgical glove, was inserted. All operations were performed using conventional rigid straight laparoscopic instruments. Laparoscopic suturing was performed in intramural myomas and some subserosal myomas., Measurements and Main Results: Patient mean (SD; range) age was 38.3 (5.6; 29-49) years. The number of myomas per patient was 1.6 (1.4; 1-6). The diameter of the largest myomas was 6.1 (1.5; 4.2-9.6) cm. In 4 patients, only a knife was required for transumbilical extraction of myomas, and in 11 patients, transumbilical morcellation with an electromechanical morcellator with or without a knife was used. Transumbilical drainage tubes were inserted into the pelvic cavity in 11 of 15 patients. Operative time was 96.7 (33.8; 35-150) minutes. The decrease in postoperative hemoglobin concentration was 1.8 (1.2; 0.4-3.6) g/dL. During the operations, no patients required blood transfusion. No patients developed postoperative fever. Neither bowel injury nor urinary tract injury occurred in any patient. The postoperative hospital stay was 3.1 (0.8; 2-4) days., Conclusion: Single-port transumbilical morcellation using a conventional electromechanical morcellator with or without a knife is feasible. Single-port laparoscopic myomectomy is an alternative method with cosmetic advantage., (Copyright © 2010 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Disseminated leiomyomatosis peritonei is a rare condition characterized by multiple smooth muscle, myofibroblastic, and fibroblastic nodules. The appearance often mimics carcinomatosis or tuberculosis. We describe a 33-year-old woman with disseminated leiomyomatosis peritonei and recurrent multiple uterine leiomyomas who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy. The images obtained from laparoscopy are presented.

In embryonic natural orifice transumbilical endoscopic surgery, more than 1 port is inserted through the umbilicus. In the present study, embryonic natural orifice transumbilical endoscopic surgery combined with a flexible scope was used to further improve gynecologic surgery. A surgical incision was made in the umbilical region to enter the abdominal cavity using the closed approach. A 12-mm port was placed at the umbilical incision, and the 5-mm flexible scope was inserted through the port. Another surgical port was then made in the left inguinal region for insertion of a 5-mm port while monitoring it with the flexible scope. The flexible scope was then inserted through the 5-mm inguinal port, and another 5-mm port was inserted caudal to the 12-mm port while monitoring the umbilical region with the flexible scope. The 12- and 5-mm ports were inserted through the same umbilical incision so that they were positioned vertically. The surgeon stood on the left side of the patient to manipulate the 12-mm umbilical port with the right hand and the 5-mm inguinal port with the left hand. An assistant surgeon inserted the flexible scope through the 5-mm umbilical port and manipulated it with the left hand to secure the view during surgery by appropriately adjusting the angle of the flexible scope. With the present technique, the flexible scope did not interfere with the forceps inside or outside of the body cavity because its angle could be freely set. Since March 2, 2009, we have performed 8 procedures using this surgical technique including 1 salpingectomy, 3 ovarian cystectomies, 2 total laparoscopic hysterectomies, 1 linear salpingostomy, and 1 total laparoscopic myomectomy. Intracorporeal suturing was performed in all cases but one because a suture needle could be easily inserted through the 12-mm port. Furthermore, total laparoscopic myomectomy could be completed using a 12-mm power mocellator inserted through the 12-mm port. The flexible scope and forceps did not hinder each other either inside or outside of the body cavity. Use of the flexible scope enables the conventional rigid straight forceps to be used in almost the same manner as with the conventional laparoscopic technique.

Objective: To compare outcomes in patients with symptomatic uterine myomas who underwent laparoscopic (LPS) or minilaparotomic (MLPT) myomectomy., Design: Prospective randomized study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2)., Setting: University hospital., Patients: Eighty patients with no more than 3 uterine myomas of maximal diameter of 7 cm., Intervention: Either LPS or MLPT myomectomy., Measurements and Main Results: Mean blood loss, mean duration of postoperative ileus, and mean decrease in hemoglobin were significantly lower in the LPS compared with the MLPT group (p < .001). Mean operative time was not significantly longer in the LPS group compared with the MLPT group. Duration of hospitalization was significantly shorter in the LPS compared with the MLPT group (p < .001). No intraoperative complications were observed during MLPT. In 1 patient, conversion from LPS to MLPT was necessary because of difficulty in reconstructing the uterine wall., Conclusion: Laparoscopic myomectomy is a suitable alternative to MLPT in women with 1 to 3 myomas. However, preoperative careful evaluation of the size and sites of the myomas is necessary to avert conversion and prevent complications.

Objective: To report a case of a woman who presented with parasitic myomas 27 months after laparoscopic myomectomy., Design: Case report., Setting: University medical center., Patient(s): A 31-year-old G0 woman who had a previous history significant for laparoscopic myomectomy with morcellation 27 months before., Intervention(s): Repeat laparoscopic myomectomy and review of video footage from previous myomectomy., Main Outcome Measure(s): Pathology report., Result(s): Repeat laparoscopic examination revealed two pedunculated and two parasitic myomas. Review of video footage from initial surgery revealed pieces of myoma dispersed within pelvis during morcellation., Conclusion(s): Pieces of initial myoma dispersed within the pelvis during morcellation may have developed into parasitic myomas.

Uterine myomas may develop in many women, but only become clinically significant in about one third of the affected population. Although uterine myomas are most often benign, they are associated with debilitating symptoms and commonly result in hysterectomy. Current treatments for uterine myomas include pharmacologic therapies, delivery of focused energy, alteration of uterine vascular supply, or surgical procedures. Factors such as the woman's desire for future pregnancy, the importance of uterine preservation, symptom severity, and tumor characteristics direct the choice of therapeutic approach. The ideal treatment will have the following characteristics: easy to perform, minimally invasive, cost effective, preserves fertility, preserves the uterus, efficacious, acceptable tolerability and durability, and low incidence of myoma recurrence.

A 36-year-old nulliparous woman developed multiple extra-uterine fibroids in the pelvic cavity years after laparoscopic myomectomy. Molecular genetic analysis by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSPCR) of the human X-linked androgen receptor gene and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) analysis at 5 microsatellite loci was performed on the tumors. All tumors showed an identical non-random X-chromosome inactivation pattern by MSPCR and an identical pattern of LOH was found in all the tumors by LOH analysis. This demonstrated that 3 fibroids resected 2 years later and 14 fibroids resected 6 years later were all metastatic tumors originating from the uterine leiomyoma found during the initial surgery, suggesting that morcellation before removal of the leiomyoma nodule during laparoscopic myomectomy may have been associated with the pathogenesis of this case.

Study Objective: To estimate whether laparoscopic in situ morcellation (LISM) can facilitate laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) for large uteri., Design: Prospective study (Canadian Task Force classification II-1)., Setting: University-affiliated hospital., Patients: In all, 147 women with myoma or adenomyosis weighing more than 500 g from January 2004 through December 2007 were enrolled. The patients were divided into 4 subgroups: patients with uteri weighing 500 to 749 g who had traditional LAVH without LISM (group 1A, n=69) or with LISM (group 1B, n=16); and patients with uteri weighing 750 g or more who were treated by traditional LAVH without LISM (group 2A, n=38) or with LISM (group 2B, n=24)., Interventions: Laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy with or without LISM., Measurement and Main Results: No significant differences existed in age, body mass index, preoperative diagnoses, complications, or duration of hospital stay among groups. The mean uterine weights were 608+/-75, 597+/-66, 989+/-179, and 935+/-226 g for groups 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, respectively. The operative time (120+/-16 vs 157+/-36 minutes, p<.001; 140+/-19 vs 224+/-57 minutes, p<.001) were significantly shorter in patients with LISM than without in both groups 1 and 2. The estimated blood loss was highest in group 2A. Six (16%) patients lost more than 500 mL of blood and 3 (8%) of them needed blood transfusions. Conversion to laparotomy occurred in 1 (2.6%) of 38 patients in group 2A. No repeated surgery or surgical mortality occurred., Conclusion: Laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy with LISM was an efficient and safe procedure for removal of large uteri during LAVH.

Introduction: We report a case of disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis arising after laparoscopic myomectomy., Case Report: The patient presented with a large abdominopelvic mass 9 months post laparoscopic myomectomy. Clinical examination and imaging revealed a mass lying separately from the uterus and the ovaries. The large myoma and several small peritoneal myomas were removed by a laparotomy., Conclusion: Disseminated leiomyomas have rarely been reported after laparoscopic myomectomy and hysterectomy. They could be bits left after morcellation or could be parasitic myomas. Hence, this rare condition must be kept in mind whenever a patient presents with abdominal masses following myomectomy or hysterectomy.

We sought to evaluate the clinical feasibility and mid- to long-term effects of laparoscopic uterine artery occlusion before myomectomy in the treatment of uterine myomas. A total of 566 patients with uterine myoma were treated by laparoscopic uterine artery occlusion before myomectomy from October 2001 through July 2007. Mean blood loss was 88.2 +/- 52.7 mL (95% CI 82.7-93.8). The highest postoperative temperature was 37.8 +/- 0.3 degrees C, and the postoperative morbidity was 5.7% (32/566). Number of days to the return of bowel movement was 1.9 +/- 0.5d and in hospital stay after surgery was 7.7 +/- 2.5d. Complications included 2 instances of subcutaneous emphysema, 1 of vaginal bleeding, and 3 of mild intestinal obstruction. At a median of 26.3 months (range 6-69 months) of follow-up, the rate of myoma recurrence was 3.0% (15/517), uterus volume reduction was 48.9%, and correction of menstruation abnormality was 97.1% (502/517). Laparoscopic uterine artery occlusion before myomectomy can expand myomectomy indications with better results.

Study Objective: To assess whether it is possible for an experienced laparoscopic surgeon to perform efficient laparoscopic myomectomy regardless of the size, number, and location of the myomas., Design: Prospective observational study (Canadian Task Force classification II-1)., Setting: Tertiary endoscopy center., Patients: A total of 505 healthy nonpregnant women with symptomatic myomas underwent laparoscopic myomectomy at our center. No exclusion criteria were based on the size, number, or location of myomas., Interventions: Laparoscopic myomectomy and modifications of the technique: enucleation of the myoma by morcellation while it is still attached to the uterus with and without earlier devascularization., Measurements and Main Results: In all, 912 myomas were removed in these 505 patients laparoscopically. The mean number of myomas removed was 1.85 +/- 5.706 (95% CI 1.72-1.98). In all, 184 (36.4%) patients had multiple myomectomy. The mean size of the myomas removed was 5.86 +/- 3.300 cm in largest diameter (95% CI 5.56-6.16 cm). The mean weight of the myomas removed was 227.74 +/- 325.801 g (95% CI 198.03-257.45 g) and median was 100 g. The median operating time was 60 minutes (range 30-270 minutes). The median blood loss was 90 mL (range 40-2000 mL). Three comparisons were performed on the basis of size of the myomas (<10 cm and >or=10 cm in largest diameter), number of myomas removed (or=5 myomas), and the technique (enucleation of the myomas by morcellation while the myoma is still attached to the uterus and the conventional technique). In all these comparisons, although the mean blood loss, duration of surgery, and hospital stay were greater in the groups in which larger myomas or more myomas were removed or the modified technique was performed as compared with their corresponding study group, the weight and size of removed myomas were also proportionately larger in these groups. Two patients were given the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma in their histopathology and 1 patient developed a diaphragmatic parasitic myoma followed by a leiomyoma of the sigmoid colon. Six patients underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy 4 to 6 years after the surgery for recurrent myomas. One conversion to laparotomy occurred and 1 patient underwent open subtotal hysterectomy for dilutional coagulopathy., Conclusion: Laparoscopic myomectomy can be performed by experienced surgeons regardless of the size, number, or location of the myomas.

A 33-year-old woman, gravid 2 para 2, underwent laparoscopic myomectomy with electric tissue morcellation for intraligamental myoma. Six years later, asymptomatic pelvic tumor was found during a routine checkup. Under laparoscopic observation, multiple soft tumors were detected in the peritoneal cavity and these tumors were successfully excised by a laparoscopic-assisted procedure. Pathological examination demonstrated that these tumors were progesterone receptor-positive leiomyomas that were almost identical histologically to the myoma tissue excised 6 years earlier.

Study Objective: To compare surgical outcomes of myomectomy by robot-assisted laparoscopy with those performed by traditional laparotomy and to analyze the financial impact of these 2 approaches., Design: Retrospective case-matched analysis (Canadian Task Force classification III)., Setting: University teaching hospital., Patients: A total of 58 patients with symptomatic leiomyomata., Intervention: Myomectomy by robot-assisted laparoscopy or traditional laparotomy was administered., Measurements and Main Results: An equal number of case-matched patients based on age, body mass index, and myoma weight were analyzed in each group. Among these 3 variables, there were no statistically significant differences between the robotic and laparotomy groups. Mean age was 36.59 +/- 4.93 years (95% CI 34.71-38.46 years) versus 34.86 +/- 4.41 years (95% CI 33.18-36.54 years), mean body mass index was 25.22 +/- 3.85 kg/m(2) (90% central range [CR] 20.30-31.20 kg/m2) versus 28.3 +/- 6.95 kg/m2 (90% CR 21.50-42.80 kg/m2), and mean myoma weight was 227.86 +/- 247.54 g (90% CR 11.60-680.00 g) versus 223.76 +/- 228.28 g (90% CR 11.50-660.00 g), respectively. Patients with robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy had decreased estimated blood loss (mean 195.69 +/- 228.55 mL [90% CR 50.00-700.00 mL] vs mean 364.66 +/- 473.28 mL [90% CR 75.00-1550.00 mL]) and length of stay (mean 1.48 +/- 0.95 days [90% CR 1.00-3.00 days] vs mean 3.62 +/- 1.50 days [90% CR 3.00-8.00 days]) when compared with the laparotomy group. Both of these differences were statistically significant at p <.05. Operative times were significantly longer in the robotic group: mean 231.38 +/- 85.10 minutes (95% CI 199.01-263.75 minutes) versus mean 154.41 +/- 43.14 minutes (95% CI 138.00-170.82 minutes, p <.05) in the laparotomy group. Complication rates were higher in the laparotomy group. Professional charges (mean $5946.48 +/- $1447.17 [90% CR $4034.46-$8937.00] vs mean $4664.48 +/- $642.11 [90% CR $3944.36-$6010.90, p <.0002]) and hospital charges (mean $30084.20 +/- $6689.29 [90% CR $22939.81-$45588.22] vs mean $13400.62 +/- $7747.26 [90% CR $8703.20-$26771.22, p <.0001]) were statistically higher for the robotic group. Although professional reimbursement was not significantly different between groups (mean $2263.02 +/- $1354.97 [90% CR $0.00- $4831.08] versus mean $1841.99 +/- $827.51 [90% CR $0.00-$3376.97, p = .2831]), mean hospital reimbursement rates for the robotic group were significantly higher: $13181.39 +/- $10752.00 (90% CR $1081.76-$37396.03) versus $7015.24 +/- $3467.97 (90% CR $2492.48-$10394.83, p = .0372)., Conclusion: As a new technology, it is not unexpected that a robotic approach to myomectomy costs more than a traditional laparotomy. On the other hand, decreased estimated blood loss, complication rates, and length of stay with the robotic approach in the end may prove to have a significant societal benefit that will outweigh upfront financial impact.

Study Objective: To evaluate the influence of oxytocin on operative blood loss during laparoscopic myomectomy (LM)., Design: Prospective clinical study (Canadian Task Force classification I)., Setting: Tertiary care university hospital., Patients: Sixty women scheduled for myomectomy because of symptomatic uterine myomas., Intervention: Two ampules of oxytocin (10 u/mL/amp) were added to 1000 mL of saline solution running at the rate of 40 mU/min during the course of LM., Measurements and Main Results: Blood loss and blood transfusion rate were significantly greater in the group without oxytocin infusion (group B) than in the group with oxytocin infusion (group A), with 445.0 +/- 268.6 mL (95% CI 344.7-545.3) versus 269.5 +/- 225.8 mL (95% CI 185.2-353.8)/(p <.05), and 36.7% versus 6.7% (p <.05), respectively. There was no significant difference in average age, body weight, or numbers of vaginal delivery and cesarean sections between the 2 groups. There was no significant difference in mean total myoma weight, main myoma size, postoperative stay, and complications between the 2 groups., Conclusion: Oxytocin infusion combined with skillful surgical techniques may decrease operative blood loss and blood transfusion during LM.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of isobaric laparoscopic removal of large myomas (> or = 8 cm) using the Laparotenser, a subcutaneous abdominal wall-lifting system., Methods: A series of 63 consecutive patients with at least one large symptomatic subserosal or intramural uterine myoma (> or = 8 cm) underwent an isobaric gasless laparoscopic myomectomy. Conventional laparotomy instruments were used., Results: The procedure was successfully completed for all 63 consecutive patients. The average size of the dominant myoma was 11 cm. The mean number of myomas removed from each patient was 3.6. The mean blood loss was 143 ml, and the mean operating time was 72 min. No intraoperative complication occurred., Conclusions: Gasless laparoscopic myomectomy for the removal of large myomas using the Laparotenser is feasible and safe. It offers several advantages over laparoscopy with pneumoperitoneum.

Uterine leiomyomas are by far the most common benign genital tumors. The prevalence rates vary from 20% to 50%. Myomectomy is a standard surgical treatment and is prescribed for patients who wish to preserve their fertility. The laparoscopic approach allows a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, less intraoperative blood loss, less postoperative pain, and possibly fewer adhesions than abdominal myomectomy when performed by skilled surgeons. Myomectomy is associated with the risk of excessive blood loss and adhesions formation. Reports of disseminated intravascular coagulation complicating this type of surgery are rare, and no prior cases have been reported in the literature after the use of 4% icodextrin. Randomized trials support the use of absorbable adhesion barriers to reduce adhesion formation. A case of disseminated intravascular coagulation after laparoscopic multiple myomectomy with the use of 4% icodextrin solution is described.

Background: The number of laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomies performed has increased, yet the benefits and consequences are not well understood., Case: The patient presented 5 years after a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy with pelvic pain, an elevated CA 125 level, and a pelvic mass. Surgical exploration revealed multiple leiomyomata with adenomyosis and endometriosis., Conclusion: After a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, pelvic seeding of morcellated uterine tissue may lead to symptomatic pelvic leiomyomata and endometriosis requiring further surgery. Surgeons performing laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomies should take measures to prevent pelvic seeding at the time of morcellation and recognize the complication when it occurs.

Introduction: Laparoscopic sigmoid resection for recurrent or complicated diverticulitis and laparoscopically assisted hysterectomy for leiomyomas of the uterus are common procedures. A synchronous combination of these two interventions with the advantage of using the vaginal stump as a route for removal of the specimen has not previously been described., Materials and Methods: We used a transvaginal extraction of the uterus and the colorectal segment, followed by a totally intra-abdominal circular stapler anastomosis. The procedure is performed via four trocar incisions, obviating the need for a laparotomy., Results: Two women suffering from diverticulitis and symptomatic uterus myomatomas were treated by combined laparoscopic sigmoid resection and laparoscopically assisted transvaginal hysterectomy. Both patients had an uneventful intraoperative course., Discussion: This new approach, combining two operations, is feasible and leads to almost perfect cosmetic results, cumulatively shorter hospitalization, and good patient satisfaction. Cooperation with a gynecologist as well as experience in advanced laparoscopic surgery is essential.

Background: The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of laparoscopic coagulation or blockage of the uterine arteries and myomectomy in treating symptomatic myomas., Methods: A total of 142 women with symptomatic fibroids warranting surgical treatment and wanting to retain their uteri were treated by laparoscopic coagulation or blocking of the uterine arteries and myomectomy., Results: Most of the 142 patients had multi-myomas of the uterus, as intramural myomas (54), subserous myomas (65), and submucosal myomas (25). The number of myomas in each patient varied from 1 to 4. The size of the myomas in all patients ranged from 2 to 12 cm. In 86 cases (60.4%) the uterine wall was sutured in one layer. Average operating time was 124.2 +/- 33.1 min, and average blood loss was 117.8 +/- 48.6 ml. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 4.8 +/- 1.2 days. All patients underwent technically successful laparoscopic coagulation or blocking of uterine arteries and myomectomy without intraoperative complications. The mean follow-up time was 16.2 months (16-26). Symptomatic improvement was achieved in all patients. Five patients experienced recurrence of myomas., Conclusions: Laparoscopic coagulation or block of the uterine arteries and myomectomy appears to be a safe, effective, and promising new method for treating symptomatic uterine myomas.

Objective: To determine the differences in myoma characteristics before laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) and abdominal myomectomy (AM) and to compare outcomes in current practice., Study Design: We analysed retrospectively the data for 126 LMs and 176 AMs performed between January 1996 and January 2000 in 11 centres. Myomas were examined by transvaginal B-mode, colour and pulsed energy Doppler ultrasonography. The following data were collated: (i) pre-operative: myoma size, number, type and location and medical treatment, (ii) per-operative: operator, blood loss, surgical procedure and operative time, and (iii) post-operative: myoma weight and number, haemoglobin decrease, complications and length of hospital stay., Results: Compared to women undergoing LM, women undergoing AM had more myomas that were larger and that were generally interstitial and anterior. More of them received GnRH analogues. Excised myomas weighed four times more, the decrease in haemoglobin was greater (1g/dl), fever was more frequent, and nine patients needed transfusions (compared to none for LM). There were 37 laparoconversions (29%) after LM. The conversion rate was high for inexperienced surgeons. Length of hospital stay was reduced by half for LM (without laparoconversion). Recurrence rate at 2 years was 2.5% for LM versus 3.6% for AM (P = 0.506)., Conclusion: Pre-operative evaluation by ultrasound is essential to establish myoma number, size, type and location in order to choose the most appropriate surgical procedure.

Large multiple myomas with a cumulative weight of 2.3 kg were removed laparoscopically from a nulliparous 32-year-old woman. The patient's recovery was uneventful, and she has been eumenorrheic in the 2 years since surgery.

Uterine scar dehiscence following laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) is a rare event. We present a case of an magnetic resonance imaging-diagnosed uterine dehiscence in a primigravid patient at 29 weeks gestation, following a laparoscopic subserosal myomectomy, performed using unipolar electrocoagulation. Pregnant patients with a history of prior surgery where unipolar electrocoagulation is used on the uterus should be closely followed throughout pregnancy and uterine dehiscence or rupture should be part of the differential diagnosis when they present with abdominal pain.

Objective: To investigate the indications, surgical techniques and complications of laparoscopic myomectomy., Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was carried out in 74 patients with fibroids > 3 cm from March, 1995 until May, 2000 at PUMC Hospital. Indications for surgery were symptomatic fibroids (20 cases), mainly pain or urine frequency; progressively increasing fibroid size (7 cases); coexistent adnexal pathology(26 cases) and infertility(21 cases)., Results: The number of fibroids of each patient varied from 1 to 4 with single fibroid of 62 cases (83.7%). The fibroids were located in anterior wall (30 cases), posterior wall (23 cases) and fundus (21 cases). A total of 93 fibroids were removed from these patients including 16 intramural fibroids and 77 subserous fibroids. The size of dominant fibroids ranged from 3 approximately 8 cm (mean 4.8 cm). In 19 cases (25.6%), the uterine wall was sutured in one layer. Mean duration of operation was 73 minutes and mean blood loss was 82 ml. Longer operating time and more blood loss were observed in patients with fibroids > or = 4 cm than those with fibroids < 4 cm. The difference was statistically significant ( P < 0.05). Mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.2 days and overall complication rate was 1.4%. The average postoperative follow-up period was 22 months (1 approximately 62 months). All the patients with symptoms showed remission of their complaints at 2-month follow-up. Recurrence of fibroid occurred in 1 case 1 year after initial operation and second laparoscopic myomectomy was given to her successfully. Five patients became pregnant. The pregnancy was uneventful and proceeded to selective caesarean section at term pregnancy in 4 cases. One miscarriage occured at 8 weeks in the 5th case. No adhesions at myomectomy site were found in these 5 patients., Conclusions: Our study suggests the feasibility of laparoscopic myomectomy in selected patients, which leads to effectiveness, low complication rate and satisfactory remission of symptoms. Further study on recurrence and fertility must be continued.

Since 1990 laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) has provided an alternative to laparotomy when intramural and subserous myomata are to be managed surgically. However, this technique is still the subject of debate. Based on their own experience together with data from the literature, the authors report on the situation today regarding the operative technique for LM and the risks and benefits of the technique as compared with myomectomy by laparotomy. The operative technique comprises four main phases: hysterotomy; enucleation; suture of the myomectomy site and extraction of the myoma. LM offers the possibility of a minimally invasive approach to treat medium-sized (<9 cm) subserous and intramural myomata by surgery when there are only two or three of them. When conducted by experienced surgeons, the risk of peri-operative complications is no higher using this technique. Use of the laparoscopic route could reduce the haemorrhagic risk associated with myomectomy. LM could reduce also the risk of post-operative adhesions as compared with laparotomy. Spontaneous uterine rupture seems to be rare after LM but further studies are needed before it can be said whether the strength of the hysterotomy scars after LM is equivalent to that obtained after laparotomy. The risk of recurrence seems to be higher after LM than after myomectomy performed by laparotomy.

Objective: Evaluation of experience with laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH)., Design: Retrospective review., Setting: Dept. of Gynaecology, Ikazia Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands., Patients and Methods: Of 84 patients undergoing a LAVH instead of an abdominal hysterectomy in the period 1993-1997, data on indications for surgery, hospital stay and complications were analysed from the medical records., Results: Mean age was 45 years (range: 30-62). The most frequent indication was hypermenorrhoea (75; 89%). The mean duration of the operation was 87 min (range: 45-130). There was one conversion to laparotomy. Three times a major complication was seen: twice a bladder injury and once a major haemorrhage for which laparotomy was performed. Mean hospital stay was 6 days, in accordance with protocol., Conclusion: LAVH offers a safe technique to convert some of the abdominal hysterectomies into vaginal ones. The higher costs of disposable equipment and increased operation time must be overcome by a shorter time in hospital and shorter convalescence time.