Laparoscopic myomectomy is safe in patients with previous abdominal surgery

Abstract

Aims: The excision of myomas is commonly carried out in symptomatic women who choose to preserve their uterus, either using an open or minimally invasive (hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, robotic) approach. Patient selection is a critical factor in achieving a successful laparoscopic myomectomy. Prior abdominal surgery was not defined as a risk factor, however, the safest approach in these cases is still the subject of intense debate The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of laparoscopic myomectomy in patients with previous abdominal surgery. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on the files and operative notes of the patients who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy operation in a university-hospital based gynaecology department between January 2012 and March 2017. The patients were classified into two groups; Group 1 consisted of 34 patients who had previously undergone abdominal surgery, whereas the Group 2 comprised 118 patients who had not undergone any abdominal surgery. Results: There were no significant difference between patients with and without a history of abdominal surgery in terms of operation time, postoperative hospital stays, blood loss, rate of operative complications, or conversion rate to open surgery. Conclusion: A history of abdominal surgery seems to have no negative impact on the safety of a subsequent laparoscopic myomectomy.