[Topical problems and trends in surgical gynaecology (author's transl)]

Surgical gynaecology in the late seventies was characterised by low lethality but still high morbidity. Comparative studies have remained to be somewhat difficult to undertake for the absence of one coherent, generally accepted definition and listing of intrasurgical and postsurgical complications. Several prophylactic steps are discussed, before reference is made to the choice of a surgical technique by which to cope with benign and malignant diseases. With low lethality and comparable morbidity, consideration may be given to other aspects, as well, including preservation of functionality, prevention of recurrence, and cosmetic requirements. The trend for malignant diseases, today, is to undertake surgery, as conservative as possible and as radical as necessary.