Nerve-sparing robotic radical hysterectomy: our technique.

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Robotic surgery is gaining acceptance for gynecologic malignancies.
• Nerve preservation during radical hysterectomy improves post-operative bladder and sexual function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the feasibility of robotic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy.
• To assess oncological and functional outcomes of this procedure.

Main Methods:

• 12 patients with early-stage cervical cancer (FIGO IA2-IB1) underwent robotic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy (C1 technique).
• Feasibility, operative time, blood loss, oncological outcome, and bladder function were assessed.

Main Results:

• All procedures were completed robotically; mean operative time was 156 minutes, mean blood loss 120 ml.
• Full bladder function recovery in 11/12 patients; mean hospital stay was 3 days.
• Achieved adequate margins and nodal harvest; no loco-regional recurrence at 12-month median follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Robotic nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy is technically feasible and oncologically safe for early cervical cancer.
• The procedure offers potential for improved post-operative functional outcomes.