Laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy

Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH) is the latest advancement in gynecological surgery. It is proving to be a viable alternative to abdominal hysterectomy. Dr. J. Arneja and Dr. C. M. Shah have been doing LAVH since 1992. After completing 50 cases, a review of clinical experiences was undertaken. Indications for doing the procedures are almost identical, with fibroids being the most common indicator. A list of instruments required for doing LAVH, along with a diagram of the room set-up are included to help those nurses who are in the preliminary stages of doing LAVH. The procedure is described at length, beginning with positioning, prepping, and draping of the patient. A telephone audit with 25 patients who had a LAVH or Abdominal Hysterectomy is also reported. Complications, benefits, restrictions, and a cost comparison are discussed, including charts to show our results. The article concludes with an overview of the postoperative management of patients having LAVH.