Laparoscopy in gynecologic malignancies

One of the cornerstones of gynecologic cancer surgery is the assessment and removal of the retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Numerous reports have demonstr ated that, when performed by highly skilled individuals, laparoscopic lymph adenectomies can be performed safely. This has led to the investigation of laparoscopy lit the surgical staging and treatment of patients with ovarian , cervical, and endometrial cancers. This very promising approach has the p otential to revolutionize numerous aspects of the managernent of gynecologi c malignancies, However, it must be emphasized that the use of laparoscopy for gynecologic malignancies is still in ifs infancy, Studies that provide complication rates and long-term results are just beginning to be reported. More clinical data are necessary before the laparoscopic techniques are ac cepted as new surgical standards. Ongoing, prospective clinical trials will help answer many of the questions regarding the safety and efficacy of gyn ecologic laparoscopy. Until more data accumulate, operative laparoscopy wil l remain a promising, bat unproven, tool in the management of patients with gynecologic malignancies.