Management of Uterine Fibroids and Sarcomas: The Palermo Position Paper.

BACKGROUND: Uterine fibroids are benign monoclonal tumors originating from the smooth muscle cells of the myometrium, constituting the most prevalent pathology within the female genital tract. Uterine sarcomas, although rare, still represent a diagnostic challenge and should be managed in centers with adequate expertise in gynecological oncology. OBJECTIVES: This article is aimed to summarize and discuss cutting-edge elements about the diagnosis and management of uterine fibroids and sarcomas. METHODS: This paper is a report of the lectures presented in an expert meeting about uterine fibroids and sarcomas held in Palermo in February 2023. OUTCOME: Overall, the combination of novel molecular pathways may help combine biomarkers and expert ultrasound for the differential diagnosis of uterine fibroids and sarcomas. On the one hand, molecular and cellular maps of uterine fibroids and matched myometrium may enhance our understanding of tumor development compared to histologic analysis and whole tissue transcriptomics, and support the development of minimally invasive treatment strategies; on the other hand, ultrasound imaging allows in most of the cases a proper mapping the fibroids and to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, which need appropriate management. CONCLUSIONS AND OUTLOOK: The choice of uterine fibroid management, including pharmacological approaches, surgical treatment, or other strategies, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), should be carefully considered, taking into account the characteristics of the patient and reproductive prognosis.

Biomolecular and Genetic Prognostic Factors That Can Facilitate Fertility-Sparing Treatment (FST) Decision Making in Early Stage Endometrial Cancer (ES-EC): A Systematic Review.

Endometrial cancer occurs in up to 29% of women before 40 years of age. Seventy percent of these patients are nulliparous at the time. Decision making regarding fertility preservation in early stage endometrial cancer (ES-EC) is, therefore, a big challenge since the decision between the risk of cancer progression and a chance to parenthood needs to be made. Sixty-two percent of women with complete remission of ES-EC after fertility-sparing treatment (FST) report to have a pregnancy wish which, if not for FST, they would not be able to fulfil. The aim of this review was to identify and summarise the currently established biomolecular and genetic prognostic factors that can facilitate decision making for FST in ES-EC. A comprehensive search strategy was carried out across four databases; Cochrane, Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed; they were searched between March 1946 and 22nd December 2022. Thirty-four studies were included in this study which was conducted in line with the PRISMA criteria checklist. The final 34 articles encompassed 9165 patients. The studies were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP). PTEN and POLE alterations we found to be good prognostic factors of ES-EC, favouring FST. MSI, CTNNB1, and K-RAS alterations were found to be fair prognostic factors of ES-EC, favouring FST but carrying a risk of recurrence. PIK3CA, HER2, ARID1A, P53, L1CAM, and FGFR2 were found to be poor prognostic factors of ES-EC and therefore do not favour FST. Clinical trials with bigger cohorts are needed to further validate the fair genetic prognostic factors. Using the aforementioned good and poor genetic prognostic factors, we can make more confident decisions on FST in ES-EC.

Computer-Aided Diagnosis by Tissue Image Analysis as an Optical Biopsy in Hysteroscopy.

This review of our experience in computer-assisted tissue image analysis (CATIA) research shows that significant information can be extracted and used to diagnose and distinguish normal from abnormal endometrium. CATIA enabled the evaluation and differentiation between the benign and malignant endometrium during diagnostic hysteroscopy. The efficacy of texture analysis in the endometrium image during hysteroscopy was examined in 40 women, where 209 normal and 209 abnormal regions of interest (ROIs) were extracted. There was a significant difference between normal and abnormal endometrium for the statistical features (SF) features mean, variance, median, energy and entropy; for the spatial grey-level difference matrix (SGLDM) features contrast, correlation, variance, homogeneity and entropy; and for the gray-level difference statistics (GLDS) features homogeneity, contrast, energy, entropy and mean. We further evaluated 52 hysteroscopic images of 258 normal and 258 abnormal endometrium ROIs, and tissue diagnosis was verified by histopathology after biopsy. The YCrCb color system with SF, SGLDM and GLDS color texture features based on support vector machine (SVM) modeling correctly classified 81% of the cases with a sensitivity and a specificity of 78% and 81%, respectively, for normal and hyperplastic endometrium. New technical and computational advances may improve optical biopsy accuracy and assist in the precision of lesion excision during hysteroscopy. The exchange of knowledge, collaboration, identification of tasks and CATIA method selection strategy will further improve computer-aided diagnosis implementation in the daily practice of hysteroscopy.

Neonatal uterine bleeding as a precursor to endometriosis in adulthood.

To investigate the impact of the occurrence of vaginal bleeding during newborn first days of life with the present condition of the patient diagnosed with endometriosis/adenomyosis and its real incidence in Tbilisi region a multicenter study has been conducted1. The frequency of Neonatal uterine bleeding (NUB) was prospectively evaluated among 5 maternity hospitals, in the town of Tbilisi in Georgia between October 1st 2016 until October 1st 2018. During the same time period, 500 women visited our clinics with histopathological confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis after surgery, consented to participate in a survey study of Neonatal Uterine Bleeding were interviewed with special questionnaire. These data were compared with control groups. The incidence of visible NUB in the area of Tbilisi is 2.35%. Retrospective study suggests that there is a link between vaginal bleeding during newborn first days of life with the present condition of the patient diagnosed with endometriosis/adenomyosis.

Junctional Zone Endometrium Morphological Characteristics and Functionality: Review of the Literature.

The junctional zone endometrium (JZE) is a compacted layer of smooth muscle cells with little extracellular matrix. The innermost myometrium adjacent to the endometrium, JZE is best visualized and evaluated on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and two-dimensional/three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) scanning. Increased thickness of JZE >12 mm on MRI images has been associated with myometrial and subendometrial pathologic conditions, such as, adenomyosis, and is considered a poor prognostic factor for implantation. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) has been proposed as a treatment for adenomyosis and fibroids larger than 7 cm, and overall improvement in symptoms and disease progression were attributed to JZE thinning after GnRHa treatment. JZE contractility and frequency of contractions are affected by ovarian hormone cyclic activity and pathologic changes adjacent to JZE, such as fibroids and polyps. However, JZE contractility is not evaluated by TVUS during gynecological examinations because guidelines do not exist and the process is time consuming. The present data indicate that JZE is an important part of the nongravid uterus anatomy, structure, and functionality. When more evidence is available, the morphologic features, thickness, and contractility of JZE may potentially be used as markers for diagnosis and prognosis of normal and abnormal uterine function, for early stages of pregnancy, and possibly for early detection of endometrial cancer. A new tool for JZE measurements should be further investigated to fill this clinical gap. Key Message: JZE is an important component of the nongravid uterus anatomy, structure, and functionality. The thickness and contractility of JZE could potentially be used as markers for diagnosis and prognosis of normal and abnormal uterine function, early stages of pregnancy, and early detection of endometrial cancer. A new tool for JZE measurements should be further investigated.

From the dry lab to the operating room: the first transferability study of hysteroscopic skills.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to prove that a short dry lab training prior to the surgery is efficient to acquire basic hysteroscopic skills and that these skills are transferable directly to the operation theater. METHODS: Thirty-nine gynecologists who never attended a training course or practiced hysteroscopy before were evaluated. Participants were randomly divided into trainees (n = 21) and control (n = 18). Trainees attended a short time dry lab prior the exposure to the OR. The controls went directly to the OR. Participants were asked to identify the different landmarks of the uterine cavity and to perform a punch biopsy under the supervision of a gynecologist expert in hysteroscopy. A video recording for all the exercises was done, and showed independently to two expert surgeons in hysteroscopy for evaluation. The experts were also asked to distinguish between the trainees and the control. RESULTS: For both experts, the trainees' performance was statistically better than that of the controls (p < 0.001) for the identification of the uterus land marks and the punch biopsy. The two experts identified 80.9 and 85.7%, respectively, of the trainees. The participants' subgroup ID and the experts' identification were statistically correlated (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: A short time dry lab is efficient to acquire basic hysteroscopic skills and these skills are transferable directly to the OR.

Junctional zone endometrium alterations in gynecological and obstetrical disorders and impact on diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To investigate the JZE alterations in gynecological and obstetrical disorders and impact on diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. RECENT FINDINGS: JZE was found to be significantly extended in patients with endometriosis, leading to the conclusion that endometriosis is a primary disease of the uterus, much like adenomyosis. Statistical correlation was then demonstrated between the severity of endometriosis and the depth of the adenomyosis infiltrates, hence the thickening of the JZE. Stem cells, predominantly found in the JZE were also found in histological sections of leiomyoma, suggested to be the origin of leiomyoma. This reservoir of JZE stem cells is influenced by different stressors leading to their differentiation into leiomyoma, endometriosis, adenomyosis or endometrial cancer, according to the stressor. The variability in presentation was hypothesized to be connected to genetic and epigenetic factors. JZE was also suggested to act as a barrier, stopping endometrial carcinoma cells invasion and metastasis. In addition, JZE plays a major role in conception, pregnancy and postpartum. SUMMARY: JZE is an important anatomical landmark of the uterus contributing to normal uterine function under the influence of ovarian hormones. Alterations of the JZE thickness and contractility can be used as pathognomonic clinical markers in infertility and chronic pelvic pain, for subendometrial and myometrial disorders, for example, adenomyosis and fibroids. Prospective randomized control trials will clarify the diagnostic steps, imaging modalities to follow and probably triage the patients between medical and surgical treatments.

The Thessaloniki ESHRE/ESGE consensus on diagnosis of female genital anomalies.

STUDY QUESTION: What is the recommended diagnostic work-up of female genital anomalies according to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)/European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) system? SUMMARY ANSWER: The ESHRE/ESGE consensus for the diagnosis of female genital anomalies is presented. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Accurate diagnosis of congenital anomalies still remains a clinical challenge because of the drawbacks of the previous classification systems and the non-systematic use of diagnostic methods with varying accuracy, some of them quite inaccurate. Currently, a wide range of non-invasive diagnostic procedures are available enriching the opportunity to accurately detect the anatomical status of the female genital tract, as well as a new objective and comprehensive classification system with well-described classes and sub-classes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: The ESHRE/ESGE CONgenital UTerine Anomalies (CONUTA) Working Group established an initiative with the goal of developing a consensus for the diagnosis of female genital anomalies. The CONUTA working group and imaging experts in the field have been appointed to run the project. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: The consensus is developed based on: (i) evaluation of the currently available diagnostic methods and, more specifically, of their characteristics with the use of the experts panel consensus method and of their diagnostic accuracy by performing a systematic review of evidence and (ii) consensus for the definition of where and how to measure uterine wall thickness and the recommendations for the diagnostic work-up of female genital anomalies, based on the results of the previous evaluation procedure, with the use of the experts panel consensus method. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Uterine wall thickness is defined as the distance between the interostial line and external uterine profile at the midcoronal plane of the uterus; alternatively, if a coronal plane is not available, the mean anterior and posterior uterine wall thickness at the longitudinal plane could be used. Gynecological examination and two-dimensional ultrasound (2D US) are recommended for the evaluation of asymptomatic women. Three-dimensional (3D) US is recommended for the diagnosis of female genital anomalies in 'symptomatic' patients belonging to high risk groups for the presence of a female genital anomaly and in any asymptomatic woman suspected to have an anomaly from routine evaluation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and endoscopic evaluation are recommended for the subgroup of patients with suspected complex anomalies or in diagnostic dilemmas. Adolescents with symptoms suggestive for the presence of a female genital anomaly should be thoroughly evaluated with 2D US, 3D US, MRI and endoscopically. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The various diagnostic methods should always be used in the proper way and evaluated by experts to avoid mis-, over- and underdiagnosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The role of a combined US examination and outpatient hysteroscopy should be prospectively evaluated. It is a challenge for further research, based on diagnosis, to objectively evaluate the clinical consequences related to various degrees of uterine deformity. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS: None.

Gynaecological Artificial Intelligence Diagnostics (GAID) GAID and Its Performance as a Tool for the Specialist Doctor.

BACKGROUND: Human-centric artificial intelligence (HCAI) aims to provide support systems that can act as peer companions to an expert in a specific domain, by simulating their way of thinking and decision-making in solving real-life problems. The gynaecological artificial intelligence diagnostics (GAID) assistant is such a system. Based on artificial intelligence (AI) argumentation technology, it was developed to incorporate, as much as possible, a complete representation of the medical knowledge in gynaecology and to become a real-life tool that will practically enhance the quality of healthcare services and reduce stress for the clinician. Our study aimed to evaluate GAIDS' efficacy and accuracy in assisting the working expert gynaecologist during day-to-day clinical practice. METHODS: Knowledge-based systems utilize a knowledge base (theory) which holds evidence-based rules ("IF-THEN" statements) that are used to prove whether a conclusion (such as a disease, medication or treatment) is possible or not, given a set of input data. This approach uses argumentation frameworks, where rules act as claims that support a specific decision (arguments) and argue for its dominance over others. The result is a set of admissible arguments which support the final decision and explain its cause. RESULTS: Based on seven different subcategories of gynaecological presentations-bleeding, endocrinology, cancer, pelvic pain, urogynaecology, sexually transmitted infections and vulva pathology in fifty patients-GAID demonstrates an average overall closeness accuracy of zero point eighty-seven. Since the system provides explanations for supporting a diagnosis against other possible diseases, this evaluation process further allowed for a learning process of modular improvement in the system of the diagnostic discrepancies between the system and the specialist. CONCLUSIONS: GAID successfully demonstrates an average accuracy of zero point eighty-seven when measuring the closeness of the system's diagnosis to that of the senior consultant. The system further provides meaningful and helpful explanations for its diagnoses that can help clinicians to develop an increasing level of trust towards the system. It also provides a practical database, which can be used as a structured history-taking assistant and a friendly, patient record-keeper, while improving precision by providing a full list of differential diagnoses. Importantly, the design and implementation of the system facilitates its continuous development with a set methodology that allows minimal revision of the system in the face of new information. Further large-scale studies are required to evaluate GAID more thoroughly and to identify its limiting boundaries.

The ESHRE/ESGE consensus on the classification of female genital tract congenital anomalies.

STUDY QUESTION: What classification system is more suitable for the accurate, clear, simple and related to the clinical management categorization of female genital anomalies? SUMMARY ANSWER: The new ESHRE/ESGE classification system of female genital anomalies is presented. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Congenital malformations of the female genital tract are common miscellaneous deviations from normal anatomy with health and reproductive consequences. Until now, three systems have been proposed for their categorization but all of them are associated with serious limitations. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION: The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) have established a common Working Group, under the name CONUTA (CONgenital UTerine Anomalies), with the goal of developing a new updated classification system. A scientific committee (SC) has been appointed to run the project, looking also for consensus within the scientists working in the field. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: The new system is designed and developed based on (i) scientific research through critical review of current proposals and preparation of an initial proposal for discussion between the experts, (ii) consensus measurement among the experts through the use of the DELPHI procedure and (iii) consensus development by the SC, taking into account the results of the DELPHI procedure and the comments of the experts. Almost 90 participants took part in the process of development of the ESHRE/ESGE classification system, contributing with their structured answers and comments. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: The ESHRE/ESGE classification system is based on anatomy. Anomalies are classified into the following main classes, expressing uterine anatomical deviations deriving from the same embryological origin: U0, normal uterus; U1, dysmorphic uterus; U2, septate uterus; U3, bicorporeal uterus; U4, hemi-uterus; U5, aplastic uterus; U6, for still unclassified cases. Main classes have been divided into sub-classes expressing anatomical varieties with clinical significance. Cervical and vaginal anomalies are classified independently into sub-classes having clinical significance. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The ESHRE/ESGE classification of female genital anomalies seems to fulfill the expectations and the needs of the experts in the field, but its clinical value needs to be proved in everyday practice. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The ESHRE/ESGE classification system of female genital anomalies could be used as a starting point for the development of guidelines for their diagnosis and treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): None.

Laparoscopic myomectomy complications: META analysis on RCTs and review of large cohort studies.

Complications of myomectomy are generally rare and highly dependent on the surgeons' skills and selection of patients. Haemorrhage, direct injury, post-operative pain and fever present as intra and peri-operative complications, while adhesions are considered late complications. 21 RCTs and 15 meta-analyses have been conducted to date, with the last comprehensive meta-analysis being published in 2009. The main disadvantage of the previous meta-analysis included incomplete selection of studies, inclusion of studies with small sample sizes, and major heterogeneity of methods used between studies. The aim of this meta-analysis comparing laparoscopic myomectomy (LMy) to open conservative myomectomy is to provide an updated review of the type, frequency and severity of complications. These results can direct teaching efforts and guidelines and give updated advice to gynaecologists. A literature search was conducted on PubMed and Google scholar for RCTs on this topic. 276 studies were identified and 19 RCTs ultimately met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis and subsequent heterogeneity assessment. The results showed that laparoscopic myomectomy has a more favourable outcome with regards to several complications when compared with laparotomy. Laparoscopic myomectomy is significantly associated with lower Hg drop (WMD = -0.48, 95% CI [-0.89, -0.07], p = 0.02179); lower incidence of post-operative fever (RR = 0.43, 95% CI [0.29, 0.64], p < 0.001); lower levels of pain at 48Hrs post-op (WMD = -0.88, 95% CI [-1.63, -0.014], p = 0.02020) and decreased analgesia requests (RR = 0.49, 95% CI [0.37, 0.64], p < 0.0001). Prophylaxis use was associated with less adhesions (RR = 0.064, 95% CI [0.44, 0.92], p = 0.01), although not enough data was available to draw conclusions regarding specific prophylactic agents. No differences were found between LMy and laparotomy for blood loss (WMD = -13.6494, 95% CI [-44.48, 17.18], p = 0.38553) or pain at 24Hrs post-op (WMD = -0.19, 95% CI [-0.55, 0.18], p = 0.32136). These findings support previously published meta-analyses. Given the right indications of the surgery and training of the surgeon, LMy seems to be most preferable to laparotomy in achieving a better clinical result with fewer complications.

New insights into the neural network of the nongravid uterus.

The human uterus is exposed to epigenetic factors during maturation, which might influence its neural network. The mesh muscle is formed from the circular muscle during development and maturation, and it coordinates the longitudinal and circular muscle function. The uterus has an autonomous neural network with contractility and propagation patterns that determine its reproductive potential and health during pregnancy and delivery. Emerging knowledge on the uterine neural network and mesh muscle ultrastructure contributes to new ideas and solutions on the role of intrauterine pressure and distending fluid intravasation during hysteroscopy, and even allows for improving the operative techniques of myomectomy, adenoma cytoreductive surgery and metroplasty. Good health and well-being start from the in utero stage of life. Prenatal and antenatal care are of paramount importance to minimize the risks of malnutrition and pollutants, and foster a healthy uterus. Research regarding the neural network, function and contractility of the nongravid uterus is a new chapter in gynecology that provides significant information for a better understanding and early diagnosis and treatment of uterine pathologies and early pregnancy support.

The importance of the junctional zone of the endometrium in human reproduction.

Junctional zone endometrium (JZE) thickness and contractility seem to determine gamete and embryo transportation and implantation. Proper function depends on concentration levels, mode and timing of oestrogen and progesterone production. Most probably, the remodelling of spiral arteries, and the development of endometrium and decidua are also highly dependent on JZE activity. Fibroids that are adjacent to JZE affect JZE contractility contributing to abnormal or failed implantation. Disruption of the JZE continuity provokes adenomyosis, a condition that causes chronic inflammation and fibrosis, which negatively affects the normal function of JZE. Imaging by magnetic resonance imaging and three-dimensional sonography can diagnose JZE abnormal appearance, alterations in thickening and contractility frequency, usually in the advanced stage of the disease. Failures of assisted reproduction, and adverse early pregnancy outcomes have also been associated with abnormal JZE. Altered uterine contractions due to JZE changes are strongly associated with poor reproductive outcome and early pregnancy loss. Endometriosis and adenomyosis prevalently co-exist, with clear relation and negative effects on the JZE. The presence of endometriosis should alert to the possibility of coexisting adenomyosis. Co-existence of endometriosis may mask the extent of the negative impact of adenomyosis in infertility.

The ElectroUteroGraph: A Novel Tool for Assessing Uterine Contractions of Non-Pregnant Women.

Goal: Uterine contractility is known to play significant role in women's health. Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging have been used for assessing uterine peristalsis, however they lack practicality, objectivity, and cost-effectiveness. In this paper, the ElectroUteroGraph (EUG) and novel electrodes are introduced, to cover the unmet need of practical intrauterine contractility assessment. The EUG measures biopotentials produced by uterine muscle contraction, similar to the basis of electrocardiography. Methods: The EUG was used to fifteen healthy, non-pregnant women of reproductive age. Amplitude and frequency-related features were derived from our recordings. Results: The EUG and novel electrodes did not cause any pain or discomfort to the patients, over their multiple recording sessions. The collected data showed difference between the proliferative and luteal phase of menstrual cycle (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The EUG can accurately measure uterine electrical activity, in a simple, standardized, safe and pain-free approach, leading to objective evaluation of uterine peristalsis.

Is Computer-Assisted Tissue Image Analysis the Future in Minimally Invasive Surgery? A Review on the Current Status of Its Applications.

PURPOSE: Computer-assisted tissue image analysis (CATIA) enables an optical biopsy of human tissue during minimally invasive surgery and endoscopy. Thus far, it has been implemented in gastrointestinal, endometrial, and dermatologic examinations that use computational analysis and image texture feature systems. We review and evaluate the impact of in vivo optical biopsies performed by tissue image analysis on the surgeon's diagnostic ability and sampling precision and investigate how operation complications could be minimized. METHODS: We performed a literature search in PubMed, IEEE, Xplore, Elsevier, and Google Scholar, which yielded 28 relevant articles. Our literature review summarizes the available data on CATIA of human tissues and explores the possibilities of computer-assisted early disease diagnoses, including cancer. RESULTS: Hysteroscopic image texture analysis of the endometrium successfully distinguished benign from malignant conditions up to 91% of the time. In dermatologic studies, the accuracy of distinguishing nevi melanoma from benign disease fluctuated from 73% to 81%. Skin biopsies of basal cell carcinoma and melanoma exhibited an accuracy of 92.4%, sensitivity of 99.1%, and specificity of 93.3% and distinguished nonmelanoma and normal lesions from benign precancerous lesions with 91.9% and 82.8% accuracy, respectively. Gastrointestinal and endometrial examinations are still at the experimental phase. CONCLUSIONS: CATIA is a promising application for distinguishing normal from abnormal tissues during endoscopic procedures and minimally invasive surgeries. However, the efficacy of computer-assisted diagnostics in distinguishing benign from malignant states is still not well documented. Prospective and randomized studies are needed before CATIA is implemented in clinical practice.

Recommendations for the surgical treatment of endometriosis. Part 2: deep endometriosis.

STUDY QUESTION: How should surgery for endometriosis be performed? SUMMARY ANSWER: This document provides recommendations covering technical aspects of different methods of surgery for deep endometriosis in women of reproductive age. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Endometriosis is highly prevalent and often associated with severe symptoms. Yet compared to equally prevalent conditions, it is poorly understood and a challenge to manage. Previously published guidelines have provided recommendations for (surgical) treatment of deep endometriosis, based on the best available evidence, but without technical information and details on how to best perform such treatment in order to be effective and safe. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION: A working group of the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE), ESHRE and the World Endometriosis Society (WES) collaborated on writing recommendations on the practical aspects of surgery for treatment of deep endometriosis. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS: This document focused on surgery for deep endometriosis and is complementary to a previous document in this series focusing on endometrioma surgery. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: The document presents general recommendations for surgery for deep endometriosis, starting from preoperative assessments and first steps of surgery. Different approaches for surgical treatment are discussed and are respective of location and extent of disease; uterosacral ligaments and rectovaginal septum with or without involvement of the rectum, urinary tract or extrapelvic endometriosis. In addition, recommendations are provided on the treatment of frozen pelvis and on hysterectomy as a treatment for deep endometriosis. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION: Owing to the limited evidence available, recommendations are mostly based on clinical expertise. Where available, references of relevant studies were added. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: These recommendations complement previous guidelines on management of endometriosis and the recommendations for surgical treatment of ovarian endometrioma. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS: The meetings of the working group were funded by ESGE, ESHRE and WES. Dr Roman reports personal fees from ETHICON, PLASMASURGICAL, OLYMPUS and NORDIC PHARMA, outside the submitted work; Dr Becker reports grants from Bayer AG, Volition Rx, MDNA Life Sciences and Roche Diagnostics Inc. and other relationships or activities from AbbVie Inc., and Myriad Inc, during the conduct of the study; Dr Tomassetti reports non-financial support from ESHRE, during the conduct of the study; and non-financial support and other were from Lumenis, Gedeon-Richter, Ferring Pharmaceuticals and Merck SA, outside the submitted work. The other authors had nothing to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: na.

Uterine scar rupture - Prediction, prevention, diagnosis, and management.

The increasing rate of elective and indicated caesarean sections worldwide has led to new pathologies and management challenges. The number of patients undergoing trial of labor after caesarean section (TOLAC) is also increasing. Three professional societies provide detailed guidelines based on scientific evidence for the management of patients attempting vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC). However, they do not provide any recommendations for the actual surgical steps to be followed to minimize the risks of uterine rupture (UR) during TOLAC. Uterine scar condition, intrapartum management and maternal health status correlate to uterine scar rupture risk and provide guidance for parturient TOLAC eligibility. TOLAC and vaginal delivery success rate as reported by the largest studies is between 60% and 77%. Uterine rupture is more prevalent in VBAC-2 patients (1.59%) in contrast to VBAC-1 (0.72%). Additionally, VBAC-2 patients have higher incidence of caesarean hysterectomy 0.56% vs. 0.19% for VBAC-1. The chances of successful VBAC increase when the interpregnancy/interdelivery interval is less than 6.3 years and less than 24 months, respectively. No difference was detected between the techniques of uterine incision closure of the previous CS and TOLAC results, although closure of the CS uterine incision in 2 layers seems to be practiced more widely. Niche or isthmocele presents another complication of CS. Secondary infertility due to niche, will eventually direct to hysteroscopic or laparoscopic repair, depending on the residual myometrial thickness (RMT) as measured by US scan. When RMT is below 3 mm or 2.5 mm surgery can be performed, to prevent any spontaneous UR in case of pregnancy. Monitoring by US scanning of hysterotomy scar after myomectomy can detect hematoma. In patients with severe postoperative pain but hemodynamically stable follow up by US scan examination can direct the management decision. In those patients with active bleeding and deterioration of hysterotomy scar edema will be an indication to surgery. There is no firm evidence regarding which type of thread, knotting or sequence of suturing is more favorable to reduce the risk of UR after VBAC or hysterotomy after myomectomy.

Hysteroscopic management of cervical pregnancy: Case series and review of the literature.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the hysteroscopic management on cervical pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A case series report and literature review on patients with early first trimester cervical pregnancy (CP) treated by hysteroscopy. The symptoms upon admission, ß-hCG levels, hysteroscopy technique, blood loss and operation outcomes were presented. RESULTS: Four patients with early CP between 5 and 7 weeks were successfully managed with operative hysteroscopy. Three out of four patients had at least one risk factor for cervical ectopic pregnancy. Two patients were diagnosed on routine examinations and the other two presented with vaginal spotting and pelvic pain. Mechanical hysteroscopy was used in three patients while one case was managed by a 10mm resectoscope. Three women discharged home on the same day and one patient 24h after the operation. Literature review revealed 16 publications of cervical pregnancy managed with operative hysteroscopy. 14 articles demonstrated single case reports and two papers were CP case series. Hysteroscopic surgery was successfully reported in 12 cases as a sole treatment, in seven cases after failure of methotrexate treatment and in eight cases as a combined treatment with uterine artery embolization. CONCLUSIONS: Our case series demonstrated that operative hysteroscopy can be used as a sole treatment in early, less than 8-week CPs with safety. Literature review demonstrated that most of the early first trimester CP cases were treated by hysteroscopy and the rest after failure of methotrexate treatment or in combination with uterine artery embolization.

Review of migraine incidence and management in obstetrics and gynaecology.

PURPOSE: Migraines are the third most prevalent disorder, and seventh-highest specific cause of disability worldwide. Migraines have a multitude of underlying aetiologies; the pathology may come as a result of hormonal treatment or as a sole symptom during menstrual cycle or pregnancy, with variable intensity and duration. In addition, clinicians should be fully aware of the potential complications and well-versed in management options. METHODS: A systematic review of the incidence, symptoms, treatment options and complications among women suffering from migraines in gynaecology, as well as obstetrical cases has been performed. The significance of migraines as a marker in antenatal care and contraception treatment has also been investigated. RESULTS: The incidence of migraines in gynaecological and obstetrical cases, and contraceptive users were 11.7-12.5 %, 9-38.5 %, and 16.7-54.7% respectively. There is an average six-fold increase in the risk of stroke in women who take combined hormonal contraception and suffer from migraines. Four papers with 1565 patients proposed the combination of triptans along with the progesterone only pill. Desogestrel 75mcg/day was found to reduce the intensity of migraines compared to the combined hormonal contraceptives. The risk of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm birth was found to be increased in pregnant women suffering from migraines. CONCLUSION: Migraines have a high incidence in gynaecology and obstetrics. Health care providers must include screening questions when history taking to identify women with migraines and effectively manage them. Proper follow-up and treatment is required for all women with migraines in order to minimize the risk of cerebrovascular events, and negative pregnancy outcomes. Women with migraines are advised to avoid combined hormonal contraception and use progesterone only pills.

Training and qualification in gynecological minimal access surgery: A systematic review.

Minimally invasive surgery demands specific endoscopic psychomotor skills that are usually acquired outside the operating theatre. We present the results of a systematic analysis to identify how simulation is used during training and qualification in minimal access surgery to improve gynecologist's surgical skills. We found that despite the availability of simulation tools along with methods for training and testing specific endoscopic psychomotor and technical skills, there is no clear evidence of the superiority of one tool or method over the others in skill acquisition. However, prospective studies show that well-guided training courses combined with different trainers and methods improve significantly surgeon's laparoscopic skills and suturing ability, which are unforgettable over time. However, this proficiency could deteriorate over time when it is solely learned and executed on simulation trainers. Structured curricula including theory, simulation, and live-surgery seem to be the best option for trainees. More research in this field is needed.