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Updated: Jan 18, 2026
Author Spotlight: A Reproductive Hysteroscopy Approach for Complete Endometrial Polyp Removal and Enhanced Endometrial Receptivity
Published on: August 2, 2024
Pregnancy rates following ablative laparoscopic surgery for endometriomas
1Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit, The Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK. kjones@rschguildford.freeserve.co.uk
Background:
In this prospective, cohort study we present the cumulative pregnancy rate following ablative laparoscopic surgery in patients with endometriomas.
Methods:
The cyst was mobilized, fenestrated, and the capsule treated with the potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) laser or bipolar diathermy. Pre- and post-operative transvaginal ultrasound scans were performed, and a detailed fertility history recorded.
Results:
There were 39 women (38 intention to treat as a single procedure) who had been trying to conceive for >12 months. The mean age of the patients was 33.8 years (range 20-43), and there were 42 cysts (three bilateral) with a mean diameter of 4.8 cm (range 2-25). The mean revised American Fertility Society score was 64.9 (range 22-124), and 29 (74.4%) patients had stage IV disease. Seven patients (18%) had previously had a live birth, and 17 (43.6%) had undergone assisted conception in the past. The cumulative pregnancy rate was 15/38 (39.5%). The pregnancy rate in patients with stage IV disease was 11/28 (39.3%). There were no major complications.
Conclusions:
Our results indicate that laparoscopic cyst fenestration and capsule ablation is a safe and effective treatment for improving fertility.
