Laparoscopic ileocecal resection for bowel endometriosis

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Surgery
• Gastrointestinal Surgery
• Endometriosis Research

Background:

• Ileocecal endometriosis is an exceptionally rare condition.
• Diagnosis often occurs incidentally during surgery for other endometriosis sites or due to complications.
• This study evaluates surgical outcomes for ileocecal endometriosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze perioperative outcomes of bowel resection for ileocecal endometriosis.
• To assess long-term results following surgical intervention for this condition.
• To determine the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic ileocecal resection.

Main Methods:

• Prospective analysis of patients undergoing surgery for ileocecal endometriosis (October 2004 - January 2008).
• Focus on laparoscopic ileocecal resection, with associated procedures noted.
• Data collection included operative details, complications, hospital stay, and long-term follow-up.

Main Results:

• Thirty-one women (median age 34) were included; 94% had associated colorectal endometriosis.
• All underwent successful laparoscopic ileocecal resection without conversion to laparotomy.
• No mortality; 13% required transfusions, 1 reoperation for bleeding; 1 ureteral fistula occurred. Median hospital stay was 7 days.
• At median 27-month follow-up, 67% had normal defecation; one recurrence was reported.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic ileocecal resection is a safe and feasible surgical option.
• This procedure should be considered for radical treatment of endometriosis.
• The approach demonstrates positive short-term and long-term outcomes.