Nerve-sparing surgery in deep endometriosis: Has its time come?

Abstract

Nerve-sparing (NS) surgery was first introduced for the treatment of deep endometriosis (DE) 20 years ago, drawing on established neuroanatomy and success from oncological applications. It aims to identify and preserve autonomic nerve fibres, reduce iatrogenic nerve injury, and minimize postoperative visceral dysfunction, without compromising the therapeutic effectiveness against endometriosis. The evolution of NS surgical techniques over the past two decades has been supported by an expanding body of literature on anatomical details, dissection techniques, and functional outcomes. Recent evidence suggests that NS surgery results in reduced postoperative voiding dysfunction (POVD). Transient POVD may be influenced by preoperative dysfunction, with parametrial infiltration being a strong predictive factor for POVD. While the benefits in bowel and sexual functions are less pronounced and consistent, NS surgery potentially prevents de novo dysfunctions in these areas. Furthermore, perioperative complication rates, effectiveness in pain relief, and fertility outcomes are reportedly on par with conventional surgery.

Keywords: Deeply infiltrative endometriosis; Functional outcomes; Nerve-sparing surgery; Pelvic anatomy; Voiding dysfunction.