[The transvaginal surgical school in Austria. Retrospect-present-future ]

The tradition of transvaginal hysterectomy started in 1878 and is still alive. A recent survey showed that two thirds of all hysterectomies performed in Austria are done transvaginally. Although indications for hysterectomy have changed quite fast during the last years, without doubt, hysterectomy remains an important alternative when conservative treatment fails. If hysterectomy is to be performed, the transvaginal route should be taken into consideration. Thus it is our task to pass our knowledge to those unfamiliar with the vaginal technique.