The early outcome of laparoscopic sigmoid and rectal resection for endometriosis

Deeply infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is the most severe form of endometriosis and may affect the rectum and sigmoid colon. The most effective treatment is segmental resection. We report our results of rectal and sigmoid resection for this.

The study comprises all patients who have had laparoscopic bowel resection for rectal or sigmoid endometriosis in the Päijät-Häme Central Hospital between 1 January 2004 and 31 May 2007. Patient demographics, operative details, complications and early postoperative recovery were prospectively collected and analysed.

A total of 31 patients were treated using a multidisciplinary approach. The mean age was 33.6 years (range 21.7-48.6) and body mass index 24.2 (17-40). The mean operation time was 253.5 min (range 56-484). There were three sigmoid and 28 rectal resections and 80 concomitant gynaecological procedures. Conversion to open surgery was not required. A total of 23 (74.2%) patients recovered without complications. There were two major complications, anastomotic leakage and rectovaginal fistula. Minor complications included transient urinary retention (2), wound infection (1), pneumonia (1) and undefined fever (2). The mean time to full peroral diet was 3.8 days (range 3-7), to first flatus 2.6 days (1-4), to first bowel movement 3.5 days (2-6) and to discharge 5.7 days (4-13).

Laparoscopic rectal and sigmoid resection for deep intestinal endometriosis is safe with few severe complications and rapid recovery. The long-term outcome on symptoms requires further study.