[Laparoscopic colorectal resection for endometriosis: preliminary results].

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal endometriosis is source of chronic pelvic pain greatly affecting quality-of-life. Colorectal resection is indicated after failure of medical treatment. Few data are available on complications and functional results after laparoscopic colorectal resection for endometriosis. Therefore, the aims of this prospective study were to evaluate the feasibility, peri-operative complications and functional results of laparoscopic colorectal resection for endometriosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From March 2001 to March 2003, 32 consecutive women with clinically-suspected colorectal endometriosis confirmed by MR imaging and rectal endoscopic sonography were included in this prospective study.

RESULTS

Conversion to open surgery was required for four of the 32 women (12.5%). Mean operating time was 6 hours (range 4 to 13). Associated surgical procedures were: adhesiolysis (n=24), ureteral lysis (n=19), ovarian cystectomy (n=11), and hysterectomy (n=4). Mean blood loss was 2.4 g/dl (range: 0 to 8.6). Blood transfusion was required in 6 women including two who underwent laparoconversion. Two rectovaginal fistulae (6.3%) occurred requiring a colostomy. Urinary retention was noted in 6 women (15.6%).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic colorectal resection for endometriosis is feasible and is associated with a significant improvement of symptoms. However, the benefit of this procedure has to be weighed against the high morbidity.