THE ROLE OF LAPAROSCOPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF GYNECOLOGIC MALIGNANCY

With the advent of minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, most gy necologic procedures for benign conditions can be performed in an outp atient setting, However, the role of such techniques in gynecologic on cology is not well defined. By reviewing the literature and presenting some new data, we attempt to elucidate the applications of operative videolaparoscopy in gynecologic oncology. Advanced laparoscopic techni ques are utilized for the management of cervical cancer as well as the staging and treatment of endometrial and ovarian cancers. Such techni ques are used in performing radical hysterectomy for early stage cervi cal cancer, pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy, and second look lap aroscopy following chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, Even though prelim inary data are encouraging, large prospective controlled studies with long-term follow-up are necessary to better define the role and limita tions of laparoscopy in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies. (C) 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.