Feasibility and Outcomes of “No-Look No-Touch” Laparoscopic Radical Trachelectomy for Early-Stage Cervical Cancer

Abstract

Intraoperative tumor manipulation and dissemination may compromise the survival of women with early-stage cervical cancer who undergo laparoscopic surgery. This study aimed to examine survival and obstetrical outcomes related to laparoscopic radical trachelectomy (LRT) with a “no-look no-touch” technique in 40 women. This technique incorporates five measures to prevent tumor spillage and damage to the uterine artery perfusion. Five LRTs were aborted because of positive nodes or positive surgical margins. Compared with those of type III laparoscopic radical hysterectomy, the surgical outcomes of LRT in 35 patients were acceptable: operative time (380 min), estimated blood loss (140 mL), length of hospital stay (15 days), and lengths of excised parametrium and vagina. During follow-up (median, 41.3 months), the 5-year disease-free survival and overall survival were 95.0% (95% CI: 69.5–99.3%) and 100%, respectively. Of the nine patients (26%) who attempted pregnancy, seven conceived (nine pregnancies, 76%). Eight were delivered by term cesarean section, while one was miscarried in the first trimester. Our study suggests that the no-look no-touch technique may be effective in reducing the risk of recurrence and improving obstetrical outcomes during LRT for early-stage cervical cancer.