Laparoscopic hysterectomy in case of uteri weighing ≥1 kilogram: a series of 71 cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Study objective: To present our experience with laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) for uteri weighing 1 kilogram or more and to provide a systematic review of the available English literature.

Design: Retrospective analysis and review of the literature (Canadian Task Force Classification II-2).

Setting: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.

Patients: All women in whom LH was attempted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Insubria for uteri weighing ≥1 kg were included in the present study. Demographic characteristics and perioperative details of patients were prospectively recorded in our institutional surgical database. We also performed a systematic review of the English literature to identify studies including at least 1 case of LH for uteri weighing ≥1 kg.

Interventions: Hysterectomy for uteri ≥1 kg was performed through a total laparoscopic approach with vaginal morcellation of the uterus in the majority of patients and transvaginal closure of the vaginal vault in all cases.

Measurements and main results: LH was attempted in a total of 71 women. The median uterine weight was 1120 g (1000-2860 g). Three (4.2%) conversions to open surgery were needed. The median operative time and blood loss were 120 minutes (55-360 minutes) and 200 mL (10-1000 mL), respectively. No intraoperative and 2 (2.8%) postoperative complications occurred. Our review identified 6 studies reporting details of LH for uteri weighing ≥1 kg for a total of 62 patients; conversion to open surgery was necessary in 6 (9.7%) patients, and an additional 13 (21%) received a minilaparotomic incision to extract the uterus. The overall complication rate reported in the literature was 11.4%.

Conclusion: LH represents a possibility even in cases of uteri weighing ≥1 kg. In a dedicated setting with high endoscopic experience, conversion and complication rates appear acceptable.

Keywords: 1 kg; 1000 g; Fibroids; Hysterectomy; Laparoscopy; Large uterus; Total laparoscopic hysterectomy.