Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) subtotal hysterectomy: A feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Gynecologic Oncology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is an emerging minimally invasive approach for gynecologic procedures.
• Subtotal hysterectomy, preserving the cervix, is performed for benign uterine diseases via various surgical routes.
• Evaluating novel techniques like transvaginal NOTES for hysterectomy is crucial for advancing surgical options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of performing subtotal hysterectomy using the transvaginal NOTES technique.
• To provide initial data on the outcomes of this innovative surgical approach.
• To explore a less invasive alternative for uterine removal.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series involving 10 patients undergoing transvaginal NOTES subtotal hysterectomy.
• Data collection focused on operative time, blood loss, specimen weight, and post-operative recovery.
• Follow-up assessments were conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months to monitor for complications.

Main Results:

• The average operative time was 106.7 minutes with a mean blood loss of 250 mL.
• Specimen retrieval weight averaged 452.2 g, with no intraoperative injuries reported.
• Patients experienced short hospital stays (2-3 days) and uneventful recovery with no long-term complications.

Conclusions:

• Transvaginal NOTES subtotal hysterectomy is a feasible and safe surgical option.
• The procedure demonstrates promising outcomes for patients with benign uterine conditions.
• This technique represents a viable minimally invasive alternative for hysterectomy.