Laparoscopic-Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH) 9/90 - 9/93: Data from 253 Cases

After our first LAVH in September of 1990, we performed a prospective clinical trial. All women referred for abdominal hysterectomy were given the option of LAVH. A total of 253 patients met the strict criteria prohibiting vaginal hysterectomy. Those criteria utilized included obesity, uterus> 12-14 week size, pelvic pathology, prior pelvic surgery, pelvic adhesions, and lack of pelvic relaxation. All patients were consented for LAVH with potential complications including infection, anesthesia accidents, and hemorrhage listed on the release of liability. Also included in the release of liability was the potential for laparotomy. A combination of techniques were used, and procedures were performed mainly at a tertiary hospital center by attending and resident physicians. Surgery in 248 (98%) patients was completed via LAVH. Mean operating room time was 135 minutes (65-140 min range). Mean hospital stay was 1.2 days (1-5 day range). Mean recovery time was 2.5 weeks (2-6 week range). Mean EBL was 350 ml (100-1250 ml range).