Analysis of factors affecting vaginal hysterectomy

The study analyzes factors that affect vaginal hysterectomy to establish the indications of a vaginal approach to benign uterine disease. In a retrospective study, 174 patients underwent vaginal hysterectomy for uterine leiomyomas or adenomyosis by one gynecologist between December 2005 and December 2006. All data were compared and analyzed by X(2)- test, t-test, and multiple logistic regression. Based on a uterine weight > or = 500 g, body weight, a history of surgery, concomitant surgery (adenexectomy), penetration of the posterior cul de sac during surgery, uterine descent, and average uterine weight we determined the feasibility of vaginal hysterectomy. Based on an operative time > or = 33 min, body weight, concomitant surgery (adenexectomy), penetration of the posterior cul de sac, vertical length of the vaginal opening, uterine descent, and the uterine weight had significant effects on the success of vaginal hysterectomy. The range of indications for vaginal hysterectomy may vary greatly depending on the surgeon's experience. If experiences are accumulated gradually, together with the advantages of laparoscopically assisted hysterectomy, most abdominal hysterectomies and laparoscopic hysterectomies can be replaced by vaginal hysterectomy.