RADICAL HYSTERECTOMY WITH THE ENDOSCOPIC STAPLER

Objective. Morbidity associated with radical hysterectomy is significa nt. Utilizing the endoscopic stapler far transection of the cardinal l igaments and uterosacral ligaments is a possible method to decrease op erative time and blood loss. Methods. Two groups of patients, one grou p with the stapler used (n = 21) and the other with the traditional me thod utilized (n = 18), were compared in regard to operative and posto perative morbidity operative time, and surgical margins. The groups we re similar in regard to medical condition, age, and weight. Results. M edian (243 min versus 284 min) and mean (246 min versus 287 min) opera tive times were significantly less in the stapler group than in the co ntrol group (P < 0.002). Median blood loss was reduced by 20% in the s tapler group (400 mi versus 500 mi, P < 0.03). There was no significan t difference in febrile morbidity, surgical complications, or length o f hospital stay. Conclusion. Our data suggest significant reduction in blood loss and operative time with the use of the endoscopic stapler. (C) 1998 Academic Press.