Simple Hysterectomy for Cervical Cancer: Risk Factors for Failed Screening and Deviation From Screening Guidelines

The aim of this study is to describe risk factors associated with either false-negative cervical cancer screening or deviations from screening guidelines that result in incidentally found invasive cervical cancer at the time of simple hysterectomy for benign indications.

This is a retrospective review from 1990 to 2017 of subjects with incidental cervical cancer. Baseline demographics, preoperative evaluations, surgical data, and histopathologic characteristics were recorded. Deviations from screening guidelines or false-negative screenings were identified. Associations of independent risk factors according to age, insurance status, and histology were assessed.

Fifty-nine subjects with a median age of 43 years were found. Abnormal uterine bleeding was the most common indication for hysterectomy (61%, n = 36) and cervical dysplasia was present in 42% (n = 25) of these cases. Of those with inappropriate screening, 38% (n = 17) did not have documented Pap test, 22% (n = 10) had Pap that was not triaged appropriately, 18% (n = 8) received Pap and colposcopy but no indicated excisional procedure, and 22% (n = 10) had an excisional procedure that was not managed according to guidelines. False-negative screening occurred in 25% subjects (n = 15). There was no significant association between age, insurance status, or histology and risk of false-negative screening or inadequate screening.

The most common cause of incidental cervical cancer at the time of simple hysterectomy was failure to properly adhere to screening guidelines. Less frequently, false-negative screening was the cause. No independent risk factor in either group was identified in this single institutional study. Illustrated is the importance of continuing education of surgeons about adequate screening in the preoperative evaluation for benign hysterectomy.