A meta-synthesis of qualitative literature on female chronic pelvic pain for the development of a core outcome set: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Qualitative research has an increasing role in the development of core outcome sets (COS) adding patient perspectives to the considerations of core outcomes. We aimed to identify priorities of women with experience of chronic pelvic pain (CPP). METHODS: The search strategy was a systematic review of qualitative studies identified from Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycInfo databases. Selection criteria were qualitative studies exploring the experience of women with CPP. Two independent researchers extracted data and summarized findings using thematic analysis. A CERQual assessment was performed to assess the confidence of review findings. RESULTS: We identified pertinent issues affecting women with CPP including the lack of holistic care, influence of psychosocial factors and the impact of pain on quality of life. Five meta-themes central to delivering a patient-centred approach were highlighted: acceptance of pain, quality of life, management of CPP, communication and support. Management of CPP was the most commonly reported meta-theme across seven studies and half of studies reported quality of life, management, communication and support. Quality appraisal of included studies identified only a single study that met all CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) criteria. There was high confidence in the evidence for acceptance of pain, quality of life and communication meta-themes. CONCLUSION: Meta-themes revealed by this review should be considered as a priority and reflected in outcomes reported by future studies evaluating interventions for CPP. In addition, these themes should be considered by clinicians managing women with CPP.

Evaluation of clinical practice guidelines (CPG) on the management of female chronic pelvic pain (CPP) using the AGREE II instrument.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Variations in guidelines may result in differences in treatments and potentially poorer health-related outcomes. We aimed to systematically review and evaluate the quality of national and international guidelines and create an inventory of CPG recommendations on CPP. METHODS: We searched EMBASE and MEDLINE databases from inception till August 2020 as well as websites of professional organizations and societies. We selected national and international CPGs reporting on the diagnosis and management of female CPP. We included six CPGs. Five researchers independently assessed the quality of included guidelines using the AGREE II tool and extracted recommendations. RESULTS: Two hundred thirty-two recommendations were recorded and grouped into six categories: diagnosis, medical treatment, surgical management, behavioural interventions, complementary/alternative therapies and education/research. Thirty-nine (17.11%) recommendations were comparable including: a comprehensive pain history, a multi-disciplinary approach, attributing muscular dysfunction as a cause of CPP and an assessment of quality of life. Two guidelines acknowledged sexual dysfunction associated with CPP and recommended treatment with pelvic floor exercises and behavioural interventions. All guidelines recommended surgical management; however, there was no consensus regarding adhesiolysis, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy during hysterectomy, neurectomy and laparoscopic uterosacral nerve ablation. Half of recommendations (106, 46.49%) were unreferenced or made in absence of good-quality evidence or supported by expert opinion. Based on the AGREE II assessment, two guidelines were graded as high quality and recommended without modifications (EAU and RCOG). Guidelines performed poorly in the "Applicability", "Editorial Independence" and "Stakeholder Involvement" domains. CONCLUSION: Majority of guidelines were of moderate quality with significant variation in recommendations and quality of guideline development.

Identifying Preoperative Factors Associated with Nonresponders in Women Undergoing Comprehensive Surgical Treatment for Endometriosis.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To examine whether existing quality of health outcome measures can be used to predict or have an association with nonresponse surgery for endometriosis. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. SETTINGS: Single endometriosis referral center. PATIENTS: Women (n = 198) undergoing surgery for endometriosis. INTERVENTIONS: Validated health questionnaires and visual analogue scales. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Patients were given validated health questionnaires, including Endometriosis Health Profile 30, Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index, EuroQol-5, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, preoperatively and at 12 months after full surgical excision of endometriosis. Visual analogue scales were also used that measured dyschezia, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain. Surgical management was dependent on severity of disease. Superficial disease was treated by laparoscopic peritoneal excision or laser ablation. Deep infiltrating disease involving the bowel was excised completely together with laparoscopic bowel surgery (shave, disc, or segmental resection) with/without concomitant total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Nonresponders were defined as women who failed to demonstrate an improvement in pain scores 12 months postoperatively. We examined preoperative and postoperative questionnaires, visual analogue scores, and other variables such as age at onset of symptoms, type of surgery, and the presence of postoperative complications comparing responder and nonresponder women to identify the factors associated with nonresponse. Of 102 women treated for superficial endometriosis, 25 (24.51%) were nonresponders. No factors were associated with nonresponse at 12 months. Of 96 women treated for severe endometriosis involving the bowel, 10 (10.41%) were nonresponders. Nonresponders had significantly less preoperative pain (p = .031) and feeling of control (p = .015) than responders. There was no association between nonresponders and women who underwent a hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy or those with complications. Radical bowel surgery (resection) was associated with nonresponders. CONCLUSION: Minimal preoperative factors are associated with nonresponse for women having surgery for endometriosis. The severity of pain experienced by women with endometriosis may be used to predict their response to surgery.

Diagnostic delay for superficial and deep endometriosis in the United Kingdom.

A Cross-sectional study was undertaken at a specialist centre in the United Kingdom investigating duration and causes of delay in the diagnosis of endometriosis. One hundred and one women completed a self-reported questionnaire containing 20 items about their psychosocial, symptoms and experiences. The statistical analysis included a Mann-Whitney U test. A p value of .05 was considered statistically significant. The Spearman's rank correlation was also calculated. Overall, there was a median delay of 8 years (Q1-Q3: 3-14) from the onset of symptoms to a diagnosis of endometriosis. Factors such as menstrual cramps in adolescence, presence of rectovaginal endometriosis, normalisation of pain and the attitudes of health professionals contributed to a delayed diagnosis (p values<.05). There was a negative correlation indicating the earlier the onset of symptoms, the greater the delay to diagnosis (Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient -0.63, p<.01). The results of this study highlight a considerable diagnostic delay associated with endometriosis and the need for clinician education and public awareness.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? The diagnostic delay of 7-9 years with endometriosis has been reported globally. In an effort to standardise surgical treatment, improve outcomes, and shorten delays specialist endometriosis centres were introduced in 2011. There has been no recent quality improvement assessment since the establishment of such centres.What do the results of this study add? This is the most recent evaluation in the United Kingdom since the introduction of specialist endometriosis centres. There is a considerable diagnostic delay associated endometriosis in the United Kingdom with a median of 8 years. The delays seem not to have improved over the last two decades. We have identified medical and psychosocial factors that may contribute to such delays. These include factors such as menstrual cramps in adolescence, presence of rectovaginal endometriosis, normalisation of pain and attitudes of health professionals contribute to a delayed diagnosis.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The results of this study, highlight the need for clinician education and public awareness to decrease the long term-morbidity and complications that result from untreated endometriosis.

Obstetric anal sphincter injury: a systematic review of information available on the internet.

OBJECTIVE: There is no systematic evaluation of online health information pertaining to obstetric anal sphincter injury. Therefore, we evaluated the accuracy, credibility, reliability, and readability of online information concerning obstetric anal sphincter injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Multiple search engines were searched. The first 30 webpages were identified for each keyword and considered eligible if they provided information regarding obstetric anal sphincter injury. Eligible webpages were assessed by two independent researchers for accuracy (prioritised criteria based upon the RCOG Third and Fourth Degree Tear guideline); credibility; reliability; and readability. RESULTS: Fifty-eight webpages were included. Seventeen webpages (30%) had obtained Health On the Net certification, or Information Standard approval and performed better than those without such approvals (p = 0.039). The best overall performing website was http://www.pat.nhs.uk (score of 146.7). A single webpage (1%) fulfilled the entire criteria for accuracy with a score of 18: www.tamesidehospital.nhs.uk . Twenty-nine webpages (50%) were assessed as credible (scores ≥7). A single webpage achieved a maximum credibility score of 10: www.meht.nhs.uk . Over a third (21 out of 58) were rated as poor or very poor. The highest scoring webpage was http://www.royalsurrey.nhs.uk (score 62). No webpage met the recommended Flesch Reading Ease Score above 70. The intra-class coefficient between researchers was 0.98 (95% CI 0.96-0.99) and 0.94 (95% CI 0.89-0.96) for accuracy and reliability assessments. CONCLUSION: Online information concerning obstetric anal sphincter injury often uses language that is inappropriate for a lay audience and lacks sufficient accuracy, credibility, and reliability.

Laparoscopic Uterosacral Suture Sacrohysteropexy: LUSSH Procedure.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a mesh-free laparoscopic uterosacral suture sacrohysteropexy (LUSSH). DESIGN: Technical video demonstrating LUSSH for uterine prolapse (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: University hospital. PATIENT: A 37-year-old woman with grade 3 uterine descent requested uterine-sparing surgery for symptomatic prolapse. The patient declined all mesh procedures. INTERVENTION: Mesh-free laparoscopic uterosacral suture sacrohysteropexy (LUSSH). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy is a uterine-preserving technique for uterine prolapse with high cure rates (92%) but with a mesh erosion risk of up to 2.5% [1,2]. Complications have resulted in reclassification of transvaginal meshes as restricted-use high-risk medical devices [3,4]. Sacrospinous hysteropexy and uterosacral ligament suspension are mesh-free alternatives, but they have increased rates of anterior-compartment failures and a 20% recurrence rate in the latter [5,6]. Laparoscopic suture sacrohysteropexy has been described with reported success rates of 95% [7]. This video demonstrates a modified-technique offering a simple, robust, and reproducible mesh-free approach to uterine-preserving prolapse surgery. We used 2 horizontal loop mattress sutures acting as a pulley to distribute the force evenly throughout the suture strand, leading to a significantly stronger and more secure hold and reducing risk of avulsion [8]. The technique starts with a careful dissection of the peritoneum from the sacral promontory to the cervix. Two permanent sutures are used, taking bites at the anterior longitudinal ligament, the uterosacral, a loop mattress in the midline at the cervix, the uterosacral on the way back, and finally at the sacral promontory. Damage to the uterine vessels is minimized by maintaining a central uterine position. The stitch is tied with caudal pressure on the uterus, applied via the uterine manipulator, approximating the cervix to the sacral promontory. The peritoneum is closed with dissolvable sutures, burying the Ethibond to prevent exposure and bowel obstruction. CONCLUSION: Post-procedure, the uterus was well supported with a vaginal length of 15 cm.

Laparoscopic Resection of Post-Cesarean Section Scar Uterine Cyst.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a technique of performing laparoscopic resection of a post-cesarean section scar uterine cyst. DESIGN: Technical video (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: University Hospital. PATIENT: A 38-year old woman. INTERVENTION: Laparoscopic excision of a uterine cyst within a cesarean section scar. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A 38-year-old woman presented with secondary subfertility requesting removal of a cesarean section scar defect to prepare the uterine cavity for in vitro fertilization. Preoperative ultrasound demonstrated a 17.7 × 12.2 mm scar defect. At rigid hysteroscopy the anterior uterine wall cyst was observed and noted to be narrowing the uterine cavity. A laparoscopic approach was used to excise the uterine cyst. We carefully mobilized the bladder from its adhesions at the site of the previous cesarean section scar. The uterine cyst was located and margins of the defect identified. An ultrasonic-energy device was used to enucleate and excise the cyst. A uterine manipulator helped to identify the cervical canal and protect the posterior wall from inadvertent suture placement. The defect was closed with 1 vicryl interrupted sutures, being careful to incorporate the full thickness of the uterine wall to an able maximal opposition. An adhesion barrier was applied to the area. Transvaginal ultrasound scanning performed 6 weeks postoperatively demonstrated full healing with no residual defect. CONCLUSION: Niches are recognized complications of cesarean sections resulting from incomplete healing of the scar and more likely in single-layer closures [1]. They can be associated with postmenstrual spotting, dysmenorrhea, chronic pain, subfertility, and poorer reproductive and obstetric outcomes [1-5]. Laparoscopic resection of niches is well established, showing symptomatic relief and an increase in residual myometrium [6]. Although cesarean section scar defects have been described as niches, we presented a further variety of defect that has not been previously described, a uterine cyst.

Ureterolysis for Laparoscopic Hysterectomy.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate techniques of ureterolysis during complex laparoscopic hysterectomy. DESIGN: Technical video demonstrating different approaches to ureterolysis for complex benign pathology during laparoscopic hysterectomy (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: Benign gynecology department at a university hospital. INTERVENTION: Performance of ureterolysis during laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign pathology. CONCLUSION: Ureteric injury has significant morbidity and is the most common reason for litigation following hysterectomy, with an estimated risk of 0.02% to 0.4%. [1,2]. Ureterolysis is infrequently practiced by benign gynecologists; however, it may be necessary during complex surgery. Benign pathology requiring hysterectomy, such as endometriosis, myomas, large uteri, and adnexal masses, are recognized risk factors for ureteric injury [3]. Most injuries occur during division of the uterine artery at the level of the internal cervical os. The average distance between the ureter and cervix is 2 cm, but it is only 0.5 cm in 3.2% of the population with a normal pelvis [4]. Preventive strategies, such as the use of a uterine manipulator, may increase this distance, although it still might not be sufficient to prevent injury in women with normal anatomic variants and complex pathology. Visualizing the ureter at the pelvic brim and side wall without retroperitoneal dissection may be inadequate because the segment of ureter between the intersection of the uterine artery and the bladder is not visible. The ureter can be safely dissected up to 15 cm without compromising its viability. In this educational video, we demonstrate various simple, quick, and reproducible techniques to perform ureterolysis for complex benign pathology. These techniques can be used by both expert and novice surgeons to perform and teach ureterolysis. Our method determines the course of the ureter throughout the pelvis and relation to the uterine artery to reduce intraoperative injury. We have performed more than 350 cases with no injuries.

A Stepwise Approach to Laparoscopic Enucleation and Excision of Retroperitoneal Cysts.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To show a step-by-step approach to laparoscopic enucleation and excision of retroperitoneal cysts using a technical video. DESIGN: A technical video (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: A benign gynecology department at a university hospital. INTERVENTION: Laparoscopic enucleation and excision of retroperitoneal cysts. CONCLUSION: Retroperitoneal cysts are rare lesions associated with numerous complications including compression on neighboring organs, infection, rupture, and malignant transformation. Excision of retroperitoneal cysts can be challenging, and dissection of the retroperitoneal space is associated with bowel and vascular injury [1]. Laparoscopic drainage and fenestration have been promoted to prevent visceral injury [2]. Such approaches are ineffective, with increased recurrences and fluid accumulation requiring repeat surgical procedures [3,4]. Successful laparoscopic excision of retroperitoneal cysts has been reported although there are no published videos of the technique [5]. In this video, we use 2 separate cases to show our step-by-step laparoscopic approach to enucleate and excise retroperitoneal cysts. Various methods to safely enter retroperitoneal spaces to avoid inadvertent damage to surrounding structures are detailed. A combination of careful blunt and sharp dissection is used to find specific planes to separate the cyst from the overlying peritoneum and underlying pelvic sidewall structures such as the ureter, vasculature, and nerves. We minimize energy use, and, when it is used, we are mindful regarding active blade positioning of the ultrasonic dissector to prevent inadvertent cyst rupture and injury to the surrounding structures. Keeping the cysts intact aids in leverage and prevents inadvertent spillage of potentially malignant contents. The cysts are retrieved laparoscopically by contained bag decompression.

Laparoscopic Colposuspension for Recurrent Stress Incontinence after Tension-free Vaginal Tape.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate laparoscopic colposuspension for recurrent stress incontinence after failed tension-free vaginal tape (TVT). DESIGN: A technical video showing laparoscopic colposuspension for previously surgically treated stress incontinence (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: A university hospital. PATIENT: A 58-year-old woman with previous TVT presents with recurrent stress urinary incontinence. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Midurethral slings have equivalent cure rates to the more invasive colposuspension. They are preferentially used for stress urinary incontinence despite a mesh erosion rate of 3.5% with 2.5% requiring further surgery, sling removal, or revision over 9 years [1,2]. Recent negative publicity concerning synthetic mesh tape has led to a resurgence of interest in mesh-free alternatives, including urethral bulking agents, rectus fascia slings, and colposuspension. Laparoscopic colposuspension is a well-established minimally invasive surgery that avoids synthetic mesh, with a quicker recovery, less scarring, and equivalent success to an open approach [3]. Bladder neck mobility is an important marker during selection of this technique. In this video, we demonstrate our transperitoneal technique of colposuspension in the case of failed TVT. This technique allows clear visualization of the operating field and is faster and less bloody than a full dissection. Because complications can ensue from extensive excision and extraction, unless the previous TVT has caused problems such as pain, we normally leave it in situ. Careful dissection is undertaken into the Retzius space to the paravaginal tissues where the iliopectineal ligament is located. On each side, we apply 2 extracorporeally tied nonabsorbable Ethibond (Johnson and Johnson Medical NV, Bruxelles, Belgium) sutures as recommended [4], caudal and lateral to the TVT, lifting the paravaginal tissues to the ligament. The knot is placed on the ligament side to minimize erosion risk. The peritoneal defect is closed with a Vicryl 2.0 (Johnson and Johnson Medical NV) suture. This technique offers a viable mesh-free option for the treatment of recurrent stress incontinence in women who have had failed TVT.

A Stepwise Approach to Laparoscopic Excision of a Noncommunicating Rudimentary Horn.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate our approach to laparoscopic excision of a noncommunicating rudimentary horn (AmericanSociety for Reproductive Medicine classification II(b), European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology/European Society of Gynaecological Endoscop classification class U4a). DESIGN: Technical video (Canadian Task Force classification level III). SETTING: University Hospital. PATIENT: A 25-year-old women with a left-sided pelvic mass. INTERVENTION: Laparoscopic excision of noncommunicating rudimentary horn with hysteroscopy and cystoscopy. Institutional Review Board/Ethics Committee ruled that approval was not required for this study. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Noncommunicating rudimentary horns are present in 20% to 25% of women with a unicornuate uterus [1]. Noncommunicating rudimentary horns may be associated with dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, subfertility, and poor obstetric outcomes. Laparoscopic excision of rudimentary horns can be challenging and complex. Factors to consider in relation to the rudimentary horn are attachment to the uterus, presence and course of the ureter, and vascular supply. In this video we demonstrate our approach to laparoscopic excision of a rudimentary horn including preoperative imaging to plan surgical care. A 25-year-old women presented with pelvic pain and underwent a laparotomy for a left-sided pelvic mass. Intraoperatively, a rudimentary horn was suspected, and she was started on a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue pending diagnostic imaging and definitive surgery. Computed tomography demonstrated an absent left kidney and ureter. Intraoperatively, we began with a cystoscopy to identify and confirm an efflux from ureteral openings. A real-time hysteroscopy was performed to identify the unicornuate uterus from the rudimentary horn and to exclude vaginal or cervical anomalies. Through hysteroscopic transillumination the plane of dissection was identified between the rudimentary horn and uterus [2,3]. This technique is especially useful when the rudimentary horn is densely fused to the unicornuate uterus. Retroperitoneal dissection was performed ipsilateral to the rudimentary horn. A lateral approach was used to coagulate the uterine artery at its origin. The bladder was reflected from the horn to allow excision. A Thunderbeat device (Olympus Medical Systems, Tokyo, Japan) was used to excise the rudimentary horn, keeping very close to the specimen to ensure no penetration of the unicornuate uterus. Hemostasis was achieved, and no additional sutures were required. The specimen was removed using in-bag morcellation. CONCLUSION: A stepwise hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach can be used to safely resect a rudimentary horn as demonstrated by this case.

Mesh-Free Laparoscopic High Uterosacral Ligament Suspension during Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Uterine Prolapse.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a mesh-free approach for uterine prolapse during a hysterectomy. DESIGN: Technical video (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: Benign gynecology department at a university hospital. PATIENT: A 50-year-old woman. INTERVENTION: Laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension technique. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A 50-year-old woman presented with irregular vaginal bleeding and grade 3 uterine prolapse. The patient was concerned regarding the use of mesh and erosion. After counseling the patient agreed to a mesh-free single procedure. The use of mesh for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse has become the subject of controversy and litigation. Complications of mesh erosion have resulted in the US Food and Drug Administration reclassifying transvaginal meshes as high-risk devices in 2016 [1]. Mesh erosion risk is up to 23% with hysterectomy and concomitant laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy [2] and 3% with sacrohysteropexy [3]. We present an alternative laparoscopic approach of treating uterine prolapse with high uterosacral suspension during laparoscopic hysterectomy. Our method avoids the use of mesh, sacrocervicopexy and morcellation, or an interval sacrocolpopexy. Although high uterosacral ligament suspension can be performed vaginally, it carries up to an 11% risk of ureteric injury [4]. CONCLUSION: In this video a bilateral ureterolysis is performed, before hysterectomy, isolating the uterosacral ligaments. These are then suspended to the vaginal vault in a purse-string fashion using Vicryl 0 (polyglactin 910) and intracorporeal knot-tying. Postprocedure the vault is well supported with a vaginal length of 12 cm.

Simplified Laparoscopic Sacrohysteropexy.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a simplified technique of performing laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy for uterine prolapse. DESIGN: A technical video demonstrating a simplified method of laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy (Canadian Task force classification level III). SETTING: The benign gynecology department at a university hospital. INTERVENTIONS: A 38-year old woman with grade 3 uterine descent presented requesting surgical management for symptomatic prolapse. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to hysterectomy to treat uterine prolapse in women. We present a novel approach of performing laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy that differs from previously described methods [1,2]; it is shorter, simpler, and reduces possible complications. Key differences include the mesh type, site of attachment, and dissection of the peritoneum while creating the possibility of future vaginal delivery after pregnancy. Our simplified technique uses a polyvinylidene fluoride mesh woven with a square weave secured to the posterior aspect of the cervix under a layer of visceral peritoneum. Because there is no longitudinal give of the mesh, unlike polypropylene meshes with a diamond weave, a wrap method [2] is not required. No dissection of the broad ligament and bladder is needed, eliminating the risk of bladder perforation and anterior mesh erosion with fewer adhesions and simplifying hysterectomy if required in the future. We also uniquely "tunnel" the peritoneum, reducing the size of defect for suture closure, and reperitonize the mesh. Previous methods restrict cervical dilatation and require women to have cesarean sections. The method described in the video allows women to deliver vaginally and, in the event of late miscarriage, avoid the need for hysterotomy. We have performed 25 cases with 1 mild cystocoele recurrence requiring no surgery, 1 reoperation for posterior compartment repair, and 1 case of cervical elongation requiring Manchester repair. No cases of recurrent uterine prolapse have occurred.

3D straight-stick laparoscopy versus 3D robotics for task performance in novice surgeons: a randomised crossover trial.

BACKGROUND: The advent of three-dimensional passive stereoscopic imaging has led to the development of 3D laparoscopy. In simulation tasks, a reduction in error rate and performance time is seen with 3D compared to two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopy with both novice and expert surgeons. Robotics utilises 3D and instrument articulation through a console interface. Robotic trials have demonstrated that tasks performed in 3D produced fewer errors and quicker performance times compared with those in 2D. It was therefore perceived that the main advantage of robotic surgery was in fact 3D. Our aim was to compare 3D straight-stick laparoscopic task performance (3D) with robotic 3D (Robot), to determine whether robotic surgery confers additional benefit over and above 3D visualisation. METHODS: We randomised 20 novice surgeons to perform four validated surgical tasks, either with straight-stick 3D laparoscopy followed by 3D robotic surgery or in the reverse order. The trial was conducted in two fully functional operating theatres. The primary outcome of the study was the error rate as defined for each task, and the secondary outcome was the time taken to complete each task. The participants were asked to perform the tasks as quickly and as accurately as possible. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21. RESULTS: The median error rate for completion of all four tasks with the robot was 2.75 and 5.25 for 3D with a P value <0.001. The median performance time for completion of all four tasks with the robot was 157.1 and 342.5 s for 3D with a P value <0.001. CONCLUSIONS: Our study has shown that for novice surgeons, there is a significant benefit in a simulated setting of 3D robotic systems over 3D straight-stick laparoscopy, in terms of reduced error rate and quicker task performance time.

Laparoscopic Surgery for Severe Rectovaginal Endometriosis Compromising the Bowel: A Prospective Cohort Study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: Endometriosis can affect 10% of women at reproductive age. Of those, 5.3% to 12% will have endometriosis affecting the bowel. Although outcomes after surgery for severe endometriosis affecting the bowel have previously been studied and have shown improvement in generic quality of life indices and sexual function, few studies have evaluated bowel function or symptoms specific to endometriosis. Our aim was to determine the quality of life after radical excision of rectovagina endometriosis compromising the bowel. DESIGN: Single-center prospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). SETTING: Specialist referral center for the management of advanced endometriosis. PATIENTS: Women with severe rectovaginal endometriosis compromising the bowel. INTERVENTIONS: Comparison of preoperative data with a 2-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up was made for consecutive patients who underwent surgery for endometriosis with bowel involvement. The main outcome measures were quality of life using the Endometriosis Health Profile 30 and EuroQol-5 dimension questionnaires. Bowel symptoms were measured using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index. Dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, dyschezia, and chronic pain were measured using a visual analogue scale. To compare preoperative and postoperative scores, a Freidman test was performed followed by a preoperative and 12-month postoperative Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the results between those who had pelvic clearance and those who did not. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: In total, 137 patients had surgery, of which 100 completed follow-up to 12 months. The serious perioperative and postoperative complication rate was 7.3%. The results show significant improvement in almost all variables measured (p < .01). At 12 months patients who had a pelvic clearance (hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy) had significantly less pain with better bowel function. Additionally, they had higher quality of life scores and greater satisfaction with their treatment. There was no significant difference between any postoperative variables tested regardless of the type of bowel surgery. CONCLUSION: Severe rectovaginal endometriosis compromising the bowel can be treated surgically with experienced combined gynecologic and colorectal input with a low serious complication rate. Surgery by an experienced multidisciplinary team results in significant improvement in pain, sexual function, and quality of life up to 1 year postoperatively. Pelvic clearance improves outcome and patients should be counseled accordingly. There is no difference in outcome between the types of bowel surgery undertaken as long as all visible/palpable endometriosis is removed.

Demonstration of laparoscopic resection of uterine sacculation (niche) with uterine reconstruction.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a technique of laparoscopic excision of uterine sacculation (niche) with uterine reconstruction. DESIGN: Narrated video presenting a step-by-step explanation of a laparoscopic technique for excision of uterine sacculation (niche) with uterine reconstruction using a narrated video (Canadian Task Force classification III). SETTING: Laparoscopic excision of uterine sacculation (niche) is a fertility-sparing technique for use in a selected group of patients who do not respond to medical treatment and in whom definitive treatment via hysterectomy is not an option. INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopic excision of uterine sacculation (niche) is performed by excising the uterine defect after initial reflection of the uterovesical fold. The area of uterine defect is identified preoperatively using flexible hysteroscopy. Once the margins of the defect are identified laparoscopically, it is circumferentially excised. The uterine manipulator helps to identify the cervical canal. Reconstruction is performed using interrupted 1 Vicryl sutures using an extracorporeal technique for secure tissue apposition. An adhesion barrier is then applied around the reconstructed area. CONCLUSION: Excision of uterine sacculation (niche) with uterine reconstruction is a conservative surgical laparoscopic technique that should be considered in a selected group of patients in whom fertility sparing is desired and after medical therapy including progestogens, combined contraceptive pills, or the Mirena coil has failed to resolve symptoms.

Technical video: modified laparoscopic colposuspension.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic colposuspension has been shown in some studies to have equivocal results as open colposuspension, and in addition to treating stress incontinence can also reduce anterior vaginal wall compartment prolapse, as described by Burch in 1961 [1]. STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a novel modified technique for laparoscopic colposuspension. DESIGN: Narrated step-by-step video demonstration of the modified laparoscopic colposuspension technique. SETTING: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Surrey County Hospital. INTERVENTION: Initially, 180 mL methylene blue with saline solution is instilled into the bladder for clear identification. Incision and dissection bilaterally, directly onto the ileopectineal ligament (Cooper's ligament) are performed. By using the Kent dissecting knotter, dissection down the space of Retzius to the paravaginal tissues is easily performed. Two 0 Ethibond sutures (Ethicon, Inc., Somerville, NJ) are then placed on each side, between the Cooper's ligament and the paravaginal tissues. These are tied via an extracorporeal knot using the other end of the Kent dissecting knotter. The peritoneal defects are then closed sequentially using 2/0 polyglactin 910 sutures (Vicryl; Ethicon) in a figure-of-eight intracorporeal surgical slip knot technique. MAIN RESULTS: The patient had second-degree anterior wall prolapse with proved stress incontinence and descent of the bladder neck observed on video urodynamics. At 8 months after surgery she has no symptomatic or measurable prolapse and no stress incontinence. CONCLUSION: This modified laparoscopic colposuspension procedure can be used in most cases because it is a transperitoneal technique. It requires substantially less dissection than the traditional techniques do, which results in a markedly reduced operative time.

A prospective, randomized, controlled, double-masked, multi-center clinical trial of medical adhesives for the closure of laparoscopic incisions.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare LiquiBand Surgical S (LB) (Advanced Medical Solutions Ltd, Plymouth, UK) with High Viscosity Dermabond (DB) (Ethicon Inc., Kirkland, Scotland) for the closure of laparoscopic wounds. DESIGN: Prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled trial (Canadian Task Force classification I). SETTING: Multiple district hospitals. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 433 subjects were enrolled between 2006 and 2009 at 4 investigational sites. INTERVENTIONS: In this study, LB, an octyl/butyl cyanoacrylate blend, and DB, an octyl-based cyanoacrylate, were compared for topical skin closure of laparoscopic port sites (www.clinicaltrials.gov; study identifier NCT00762905). MAIN RESULTS: High dermal apposition and cosmesis scores resulted from the use of both adhesives along with low rates of wound dehiscence and suspected infections. Masked evaluators and patients favored DB in the healing of the incisions (98.3% DB vs 93.9% LB, p < .05) and (97.2% DB vs 89.4% LB, p < .05). However, there was no difference in the overall satisfaction of the appearance of the wounds. LB was found to be significantly (p < .05) faster (LB = 32.1 seconds; DB, 50.3 seconds) and easier to use than DB, and surgical users were significantly more satisfied with using LB for wound closure. CONCLUSION: The results of this trial show the efficacy of LB for the closure of topical skin incisions; LB was significantly faster, easier to use, and resulted in greater user satisfaction compared with DB.

Managing couples with recurrent miscarriage: A narrative review and practice recommendations.

There is significant variation in practice when managing couples with recurrent miscarriage (RM), with guidelines differing on the definition of RM, recommended investigations, and treatment options. In the absence of evidence-based guidance, and following on from a paper by the authors-FIGO Good Practice Recommendations on the use of progesterone in the management of recurrent first-trimester miscarriage-this narrative review aims to propose a global holistic approach. We present graded recommendations based on best available evidence.

A systematic review highlighting poor quality of evidence for content validity of quality of life instruments in female chronic pelvic pain.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the content validity of 19 patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used to measure quality of life (QoL) in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP). STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: We searched Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO databases and Google Scholar from inception to August 2020. We included records describing the development or studies assessing content validity of PROMs. Two reviewers independently assessed the methodological quality of PROMs using the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments checklist. Evidence was synthesized for relevance, comprehensiveness, and comprehensibility. Quality of evidence was rated using a modified Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach. RESULTS: PROM development was inadequate for all instruments included in this review. No high-quality evidence ratings were found for relevance, comprehensiveness, and comprehensibility. QoL was measured using generic instruments (68.42%, 13/19) rather than those specific to chronic pain (21.04%, 4/19) or pelvic pain (10.53%, 2/19). Quality of concept elicitation was inadequate for 90% of PROMs. Half of PROMs did not include patients in their development and only 40% were devised using a sample representative of the target population for which the PROM was developed. Cognitive interviews were conducted in one-fifth of PROMs and were mostly of inadequate/doubtful quality. CONCLUSION: There is poor quality of evidence for content validity of PROMs used to measure QoL in women with CPP.