Standardization and experience may influence the survival of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer

Abstract

Objective: Minimally invasive radical hysterectomy has been shown to be associated with poorer outcome in an influential prospective, randomized trial. However, many centers worldwide performing minimally invasive radical hysterectomy have data and experience that prove otherwise. We aim to review surgical and oncologic outcomes of patients operated by Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy in a tertiary hospital, by experienced surgeons and standardization in radicality, for cervical carcinoma Stage 1A1-1B1 from January 2009 to May 2014.

Materials & methods: Standardised surgical technique with Parametrium & Paracolpium resection approach was adopted by qualified and experienced Gynecologic/Gyne-Oncologic Endoscopic & Minimally Invasive Surgeons in performing Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy for Cervical Cancer stage 1A1-1B1 from January 2009-May 2014, involving 53 patients. Electronic Medical Record system (EMR) Of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital(Tertiary Referral Centre), Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology was accessed for surgical and oncologic outcomes.

Results: Fifty-Three patients operated from January 2009 to May 2014 were followed up for an average of 96.7 months with longest follow-up at 127 months. There were no cases of recurrence or death reported. 5 Year - Survival Rate and 5 Year Disease-Free Survival Rate were 100%. Two patients received post-operative pelvic radiation concurrent with chemotherapy using Cisplatin due to greater than 1/3 cervical stromal invasion.

Conclusion: It is vital to standardize minimally invasive surgical techniques for early stage cervical cancer, with focus on adequate radicality and resection which may contribute to excellent survival outcomes. Further international multi-center randomized trial (Minimally Invasive Therapy Versus Open Radical Hysterectomy In Cervical Cancer) will provide justification for continued practice of MIS in early stage cervical cancer.

Keywords: Cervical cancer; Laparoscopic radical hysterectomy; MITOR.