Laparoscopic myomectomy for large uterine fibroids. A comparative study

The goal of this study was to examine the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) for the management of symptomatic intramural uterine fibroids with weight greater than 80 g as compared to those less than 80 g.

In a prospective comparative study, 176 women with symptomatic uterine fibroids were scheduled for LM. They were divided into two groups, one with main uterine fibroid (intramural type) weight greater than 80 g and the other with fibroid weight less than 80 g. Outcome measures for the two groups were studied in terms of operation time, amount of blood loss, requirement of blood transfusion, and length of hospital stay.

Operation time and amount of blood loss were significantly greater in the group with fibroid > or = 80 g than in the group < 80 g (121.5 +/- 58.9 min versus 79.1 +/- 28.6 min, p < 0.001; and 346.3 +/- 299.6 ml versus 123.0 +/- 89.7 ml, p < 0.001, respectively). However, there was no difference in the length of hospital stay and overall incidence of operative complications between these two groups. None of the women had any major complications. Nevertheless, 11 minor complications were noted, including two pelvic abscesses requiring a second laparoscopic treatment. There was no incidence of switching to laparatomy during the operation. Extreme intraoperative hemorrhage of more than 1000 ml occurred in 8 patients; however, all progressed to full recovery after blood transfusion. Rate of blood transfusion was significantly lower in the group with fibroid < 80 g (3.2% versus 22.1%, p < 0.001).

Despite the increased operation time and blood loss, LM can be safely performed in the treatment of large uterine fibroid. However, high risk of blood transfusion in these patients has to be kept in mind.