Initial experience with Dargent's operation: the radical vaginal trachelectomy

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Early-stage cervical cancer treatment traditionally involves hysterectomy, impacting fertility.
• Radical vaginal trachelectomy is an alternative surgical procedure aiming for fertility preservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the initial clinical experience with radical vaginal trachelectomy for early-stage cervical cancer.
• To assess the feasibility and outcomes of fertility preservation using this surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection for patients undergoing radical vaginal trachelectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy.
• Analysis of patient demographics, surgical details, perioperative complications, and oncologic outcomes.

Main Results:

• Forty-three women with early-stage cervical cancer underwent the procedure; 79% of those attempting conception conceived.
• One recurrence was observed with a median follow-up of 21 months.
• Perioperative complications occurred in 9% of patients, with 5% requiring completion hysterectomy.

Conclusions:

• Radical vaginal trachelectomy is a viable surgical option for select patients with early-stage cervical cancer desiring fertility preservation.
• The procedure can be integrated into gynecologic oncology practice and should be discussed preoperatively.