[Results from laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy in the Ikazia Hospital, Rotterdam, 1993-1997].

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.