Role and Technique of Nerve-Sparing Surgery in Deep Endometriosis

Abstract

Background Nerve-sparing (NS) surgery reduces bowel, bladder and sexual dysfunction without decreasing surgical efficacy. Objectives This study aimed to summarize the anatomical and surgical data of NS technique and to review the post-operative outcomes after NS surgery for deeply infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). Data Sources Data were collected from published research articles from MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library databases. Conclusions, implications of key findings The NS technique approach for DIE seems to be feasible and reproductive. In comparison to the conventional surgery (CS), it seems to demonstrate better preservation of pelvic visceral function and an improvement in quality of life with same recurrence rates. The concept of preservation of autonomic nerves during surgical treatment of DIE should become standard in reference center.