A "cooler" simulation model for robotic cuff closure and sacrocolpopexy.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The objective of this video was to demonstrate the build and use of a single robotic simulation model for a double-layer vaginal cuff closure and sacrocolpopexy vaginal mesh attachment. Simulation models are frequently used to improve surgical skills and augment operating room experience for surgical trainees. METHODS: To create our robotic simulation model, we utilized the Advincula arch manipulator handle with a sacrocolpopexy tip attached to the ALLY Uterine Positioning System. To simulate the vagina, we used a pink, slim can cooler/coozie attached to the sacrocolpopexy tip. The edges of the coozie represented the vaginal cuff following a hysterectomy. Mesh attachment was demonstrated using a precut Y-shaped polypropylene mesh. CONCLUSIONS: Simulation has become a critical part of education in surgical training programs as it enhances learner knowledge and improves surgical confidence and preparedness in the operative setting.

Vaginal length and sexual function after vertical versus horizontal closure of the vaginal cuff after abdominal hysterectomy: a randomised clinical trial.

This randomised clinical trial aimed to evaluate the vaginal length and female sexual function after vertical and horizontal closure of the vaginal cuff after abdominal hysterectomy. The patients were allocated into two groups, vertical closure and horizontal closure groups. The vaginal length was determined using transperineal ultrasound, once preoperative and again 3 months after the operation. Female sexual function was determined using an Arabic validated female sexual function index questionnaire. Both techniques resulted in a significant shortening of the vaginal length (p-value .001). There was a significant improvement in sexual function in the vertical closure group rather than the horizontal closure one. We concluded that there was no significant difference in the vaginal length after vertical or horizontal closure of the vaginal cuff. However, female sexual function improved significantly in the vertical closure group.Trial registration number: PACTR201909573801168.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Conflicting results exist regarding the effect of different techniques of vaginal length closure on vaginal length and sexual function after hysterectomy.What do the results of this study add? There was no significant difference in the vaginal length after vertical or horizontal closure of the vaginal cuff. However, female sexual function improved significantly in the vertical closure group. This study is considered to be the first one to evaluate the correlation between the vaginal length and the female sexual function.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The correlation between vaginal length and female sexual function needs to be evaluated in a multicenter study, recruiting larger number of sexually active women.

Sexual Function following Laparoscopic versus Transvaginal Closure of the Vaginal Vault after Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Trial by the Italian Society of Gynecological Endoscopy Using a Validated Questionnaire.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: The effect of the different types of vaginal cuff closures on posthysterectomy sexual function has not been investigated in depth. We evaluated if there is a difference between transvaginal versus a laparoscopic closure after total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) on female sexual function, using a validated questionnaire. DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a prospective randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Three academic research centers. PATIENTS: Women consenting to telephone interviews on their sexual life before and after undergoing TLH were included. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomly assigned to a laparoscopic or transvaginal approach for vaginal cuff closure at the end of TLH for benign indications. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A validated questionnaire (the Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]) was used to explore sexuality before and after the operation. Of the 1408 patients enrolled in the primary study, 400 patients were asked to complete the questionnaire. Of them, 182 (41.4%) were eligible and accepted enrollment in the present analysis. No difference was found in terms of pre- and postoperative FSFI scores between groups. Patients with a low preoperative FSFI score (<26.55) had a significantly higher likelihood of having a postoperative sexual disorder (p <.001). Women who received bilateral adnexectomy before menopause and those with postoperative vaginal cuff hematoma had a significantly lower postoperative FSFI score (p = .001 and p = .04, respectively). After multivariable analysis, both variables maintained at least a tendency toward an association with a lower postoperative FSFI score (odds ratio, 2.696; 95% confidence interval, 1.010-7.194; p = 0.048 and p = 0.053; odds ratio, 13.2; 95% confidence interval, .966-180.5, respectively). CONCLUSION: Transvaginal and laparoscopic cuff closures after TLH have similar sexual postoperative outcomes. A patient with sexual problems before TLH is more likely to have a low FSFI score postoperatively. Premenopausal patients undergoing bilateral ovariectomy and those with postoperative vaginal cuff hematoma have a worse postoperative sexual life. (Clinicaltrials.gov, protocol number NCT02453165, registration date May 25, 2015.).

Interventions to reduce morbidity from vault hematoma following vaginal hysterectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: A frequent complication following vaginal hysterectomy is the formation of vaginal vault hematoma. The objective of our systematic review was to assess the impact of various interventions in reducing the incidence of vault hematoma or postoperative febrile morbidity following vaginal hysterectomy. METHODS: We carried out a systematic search of Cochrane, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, HTA database, PROSPERO, meta-Register of Controlled Trials (mRCT), PubMed, CENTRAL, Google Scholar, conference abstracts, and a hand search of journals from inception until September 2018. Our search strategy included interventions in women undergoing vaginal hysterectomy with modified vault closure with inclusion of peritoneal edges, vaginal vault drainage, or vaginal packing to reduce the incidence of clinically significant vault hematomas. Two independent reviewers (SR and AD) extracted data using a structured proforma. Meta-analysis was carried out using RevMan 5.3 software. RESULTS: We identified two studies on modified vaginal vault closure incorporating peritoneal edges that reported a significant reduction in vault hematoma incidence. Meta-analysis of two randomized trials on vaginal drains showed no difference in postoperative febrile morbidity secondary to vault hematoma [risk ratio (RR) 0.8, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.43-1.50]. Similar results were seen on meta-analysis of four randomized trials on the use of vaginal packing (RR 0.8, 95% CI 0.43-1.50). CONCLUSIONS: Inclusion of peritoneal edges in vaginal vault closure may reduce the incidence of vault hematoma. The routine use of vaginal vault drainage and/or packing has not shown to reduce vault hematoma incidence or postoperative febrile morbidity. We recommend a change of practice to include peritoneal edges in vault closure based on the evidence available in our systematic review.

A different technique in gasless laparoendoscopic single-site hysterectomy.

The aim of this study was to show a different technique for a gasless laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) hysterectomy and to present advantages and limitations of this technique. Women undergoing gasless LESS hysterectomy with a different technique were evaluated. A total of 14 LESS hysterectomies were performed using this gasless technique and rigid laparoscopic instruments by one surgeon. The mean age of the patients was 48.6 (±4.6). The average blood loss was 80 ± 35 ml. The average time between an umbilical incision and starting hysterectomy was 5 (±2,1) min. The time between starting hysterectomy and umbilical incision closure was 120 (±24) min in the laparoscopic suture group and 88 (±16) min in the vaginal suture group. The mean uterus weight was 188 (±95) g. In conclusion, this different technique is feasible and low cost, especially in non-obese patients. But further studies with large participants are needed to elucidate the safety. Impact statement Conventional CO2 pneumoperitoneum has many adverse effects on cardiopulmonary function, haemodynamic, metabolic and neurologic systems due to high-intraperitoneal pressure. The usage of gasless technique eliminates these adverse effects and postoperative shoulder pain. The satisfaction of patients is higher in laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) hysterectomy due to improved cosmesis and reduced postoperative analgesic requirements. In the literature, there are a few studies showing techniques combining LESS and gasless laparoscopy for hysterectomy. In this study, a different approach for creating operational space in gasless laparoscopy is described. Creation of intraabdominal operational space is convenient and takes a short time in this technique. The average time between an umbilical incision and starting a hysterectomy is five minutes. Additional training is not needed for experienced surgeons in LESS. Also, cost-effectiveness is one of important advantages. It is quite safe, no possibility of vascular injury, including inferior epigastric or superficial epigastric vessels. Also suturing the vaginal cuff and knot tying is easier in this technique. This technique can be used safely in patients with poor cardiopulmonary reserve. Also, by means of its cost effectiveness, it can be preferred in developing countries. As a result, it may be a good alternative to conventional LESS hysterectomy.

Development and validation of a laparoscopic hysterectomy cuff closure simulation model for surgical training.

BACKGROUND: The number of robotically assisted hysterectomies is increasing, and therefore, the opportunities for trainees to become competent in performing traditional laparoscopic hysterectomy are decreasing. Simulation-based training is ideal for filling this gap in training. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to design a surgical model for training in laparoscopic vaginal cuff closure and to present evidence of its validity and reliability as an assessment and training tool. STUDY DESIGN: Participants included gynecology staff and trainees at 2 tertiary care centers. Experienced surgeons were also recruited at the combined International Urogynecologic Association and American Urogynecologic Society scientific meeting. Participants included 19 experts and 21 trainees. All participants were recorded using the laparoscopic hysterectomy cuff closure simulation model. The model was constructed using the an advanced uterine manipulation system with a sacrocolopexy tip/vaginal stent, a vaginal cuff constructed from neoprene material and lined with a swimsuit material (nylon and spandex) secured to the vaginal stent with a plastic cable tie. The uterine manipulation system was attached to the fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery laparoscopic training box trainer using a metal bracket. Performance was evaluated using the Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills scale. In addition, needle handling, knot tying, and incorporation of epithelial edge were also evaluated. The Student t test was used to compare the scores and the operating times between the groups. Intrarater reliability between the scores by the 2 masked experts was measured using the interclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Total and annual experience with laparoscopic suturing and specifically vaginal cuff closure varied greatly among the participants. For the construct validity, the participants in the expert group received significantly higher scores in each of the domains of the Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills Scale and for each of the 3 added items than did the trainees. The median total Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills Scale score (maximum 20) for the experts was 18.8 (range, 11-20), whereas the median total Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills Scale score for the trainees was 10 (range, 8-18) (P = .001). The overall score that included the 3 new domains (maximum 35) was 33 (range, 18-35) for the experts and 17.5 (range, 14-31.5) for trainees (P = .001). For the face validity testing, the majority of the study participants (32 [85%]) agreed or strongly agreed that the model is realistic and all participants agreed or strongly agreed that the model appears to be useful for improving technique required for this task. For the interrater reliability, the scores assigned by each observer had an interclass correlation coefficient of 0.8 (95% confidence interval, 0.7-0.93). CONCLUSION: This model is easily constructed and has an acceptable cost. We have demonstrated evidence of construct validity. This is a valuable education tool that can serve to improve skills, which are essential to the gynecological surgeon but are often lacking in residency training because of national changes in practice patterns.

Comparison of 2 Methods of Vaginal Cuff Closure at Laparoscopic Hysterectomy and Their Effect on Female Sexual Function and Vaginal Length: A Randomized Clinical Study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of the laparoscopic approach versus the vaginal route for the management of vaginal cuff closure during total laparoscopic hysterectomy on female sexual function in premenopausal patients with benign gynecologic conditions. DESIGN: A prospective study with a randomized, double-blind design (Canadian Task Force Classification I). SETTING: A university hospital. PATIENTS: Patients who were scheduled to have total laparoscopic hysterectomy because of benign conditions. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomized to vaginal cuff closure via the vaginal route versus the laparoscopic approach. The study included a total of 70 patients; 34 underwent the laparoscopic approach in the management of vaginal cuff closure, and 36 underwent the vaginal route. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Female sexual function and vaginal length were measured. The duration of total surgery was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic approach group compared with the vaginal route group (112.2 ± 36.5 vs 122.7 ± 53.6, p < .05). The total Female Sexual Function Index scores preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively were similar between the laparoscopic approach and vaginal route groups (all p > .05). Vaginal lengths 3 months postoperatively were significantly longer in the laparoscopic approach group compared with the vaginal route group (8.39 ± 0.90 vs 7.34 ± 1.17, p < .05). The duration of cuff closure was significantly shorter in the vaginal route group compared with the laparoscopic approach group (8.92 ± 2.23 vs 7.51 ± 2.5, p < .05). Preoperative vaginal lengths were significantly longer in comparison with 3 months postoperatively both in the laparoscopic approach and the vaginal route groups (all p < .05). The preoperative total Female Sexual Function Index scores were significantly higher in comparison with 3 months postoperatively both in the laparoscopic approach and the vaginal route groups (all p < .05). CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that the laparoscopic approach for vaginal cuff closure might be preferable because of better postoperative vaginal length and a shorter duration of total surgery time.

Comparison of different suture techniques for laparoscopic vaginal cuff closure.

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a commonly performed procedure. However, one high-risk complication is vaginal cuff dehiscence. Currently, there is no standardization regarding thread material or suturing technique for vaginal cuff closure. Therefore, this study aimed to compare extracorporeal and intracorporeal suturing techniques for vaginal cuff closure using a pelvic trainer model. Eighteen experts in laparoscopic surgery performed vaginal cuff closures with interrupted sutures using intracorporeal knotting, extracorporeal knotting and continuous, unidirectional barbed sutures. While using an artificial tissue suturing pad in a pelvic trainer, experts performed vaginal cuff closure using each technique according to block randomization. Task completion time, tension resistance, and the number of errors were recorded. After completing the exercises, participants answered a questionnaire concerning the suturing techniques and their performance. Experts completed suturing more quickly (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively) and with improved tension resistance (p < 0.001, p < 0.001) when using barbed suturing compared to intracorporeal and extracorporeal knotting. Furthermore, the intracorporeal knotting technique was performed faster (p = 0.04) and achieved greater tension resistance (p = 0.023) compared to extracorporeal knotting. The number of laparoscopic surgeries performed per year was positively correlated with vaginal cuff closure duration (p = 0.007). Barbed suturing was a time-saving technique with improved tension resistance for vaginal cuff closure.

Vaginal cuff closure during total laparoscopic hysterectomy: a new technique has been performed 100 times with very few complications.

A concern of vaginal cuff dehiscence and other complications after total laparoscopic hysterectomy has been voiced by numerous surgeons. We have developed a simple and easy to learn technique for cuff closure that is associated with no cases of cuff dehiscence and a low complication rate. Our technique is described with an accompanying video.

Development of an affordable, immersive model for robotic vaginal cuff closure: a randomized trial.

Safe and secure closure of the vaginal cuff is a critical component of a robotic assisted hysterectomy procedure. Our aim in this study is to develop and validate a novel vaginal cuff closure model (VC) created from porcine heart that allows trainees to obtain competency in a low-risk environment. Ten expert and 20 novice robotic surgeons performed a cuff closure exercise on the VC model and on the dV-Trainer®, a virtual reality simulator (VR). Performances were timed, videotaped, and scored using the modified Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (mGEARS) score. Expert robotic surgeons completed the task faster on both the VR (531 vs. 814 s, p = 0.03) and the VC platforms (311 vs. 631 s, p < 0.001) and achieved higher mGEAR scores (32.25 vs. 22.07, p < 0.0001). Knot quality and suturing accuracy were better in the VC than in the VR environment in both groups. In a post-completion survey, both expert and novice surgeons expressed strong preference towards the VC model. In this study, the novel VC model proved to be a reliable simulation tool with high face, content, and construct validity. Due to its simplicity and low cost, this high-yield simulation exercise can easily be incorporated into robotic training curricula of obstetrics and gynecology residents.

Transvaginal cervical tumor-concealing no-look no-touch technique in minimally invasive radical hysterectomy for early-stage cervical cancer: a novel operation technique.

The Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer (LACC) trial demonstrated that minimally invasive radical hysterectomy was inferior to the open approach [1]; this unexpected result could be attributed to the spillage of cancer cells [2]. Following the LACC trial, laparoscopic radical hysterectomy without an intrauterine manipulator upon completion of a vaginal cuff closure became the new standard treatment method [3]. However, the lack of intrauterine manipulator results in poor visualization and inadequate paracervical tissue resection. This study describes the no-look no-touch technique to address this difficulty. The core procedures in our no-look, no-touch laparoscopic radical hysterectomy are: (Step 1) Creation and closure of a vaginal cuff; (Step 2) Manipulation of the uterus without an intra-uterine manipulator; and (Step 3) Exposure of the paracervical tissues by the suspension technique. The patient eligibility for our procedure is as follows: 1) previously untreated cervical cancer (those who underwent diagnostic conization could be included); 2) clinical stage IA2, IB1, IB2, and IIA1 based on the 2018 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics staging system; 3) histologically confirmed cervical cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and adenosquamous carcinoma. The important indication for this procedure is in cases where the tumor is less than 4 cm in diameter. We previously reported that our no-look no-touch technique enables smooth performance of laparoscopic radical hysterectomy without worsening oncologic outcomes [4]. According to a recent systematic review and meta-analysis [5], minimally invasive radical hysterectomy with vaginal cuff closure is a safe treatment option; however, it involves a steep learning curve, which has impeded its increased application. This video will hopefully make minimally invasive radical hysterectomy with protective maneuvers against cancer cell spillage more accessible. Based on our experiences, we propose that our transvaginal cervical tumor-concealing no-look no-touch technique will mitigate the risk of surgical spill of tumor cells during minimally invasive radical hysterectomy. The informed consent for use of this video was taken from the patient.

Vaginal Cuff Dehiscence: Two Case Reports and a Review of the Literature.

Vaginal cuff dehiscence (VCD) is a rare but serious condition associated with high morbidity, especially in the presence of an evisceration. It usually occurs as a complication of hysterectomy, but has also been reported after other pelvic surgeries. In this article, we will present two cases of vaginal cuff dehiscence with evisceration in post-menopausal patients. Both cases occurred post-operatively, the first after a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and the other after a trachelectomy performed by robotic-assisted laparoscopy (with a prior history of subtotal hysterectomy). Both cases were treated surgically, the first by a combined laparoscopic and vaginal approach, and the second case only by laparoscopic approach. The main risk and protective factors are discussed in a narrative literature review which summarizes the available evidence on this rare condition, discussed by type of study designs and thus evidence level. A laparoscopic vaginal cuff closure is the most protective factor in preventing VCD, compared to a vaginal closure. Clinicians should be aware of this condition and of its risk factors and precipitating events in order to identify high-risk patients. Knowledge of these allows prompt recognition, which is crucial for adequate management, for which multiple approaches have been described.

Unidirectional Barbed Suture Versus Polyglactin 910 Suture for Vaginal Cuff Closure in Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy.

Introduction and objective Laparoscopic suturing of the vaginal cuff and knotting is the most challenging step in total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) and requires surgical skill. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of unidirectional barbed suture (V-LocTM 180; Covidien, Mansfield, MA) with the conventional polyglactin 910 suture (coated Vicryl; Covidien) for vaginal cuff closure in patients with benign uterine diseases undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy. Methods  A prospective observational study was carried out at the department of obstetrics and gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh, for two years. A total of 109 patients with benign uterine diseases planned for TLH were included in the study. Laparoscopic vaginal cuff closure was performed with the unidirectional barbed suture (V-Loc) in 44 patients and with the standard polyglactin 910 suture (Vicryl) in 65 patients. The primary outcome measure was vaginal cuff closure time. Secondary outcome measures included total operative time, blood loss, average number of stitches, postoperative pain perception, duration of hospital stay, vaginal cuff-related complications, and dyspareunia. Results Demographic variables and baseline characteristics were similar in both groups except for body mass index (BMI). The mean vaginal cuff closure time was significantly less in the V-Loc group (8.84 ± 2.18 min) than in the Vicryl group (11.66 ± 1.74 min) (p = <0.01). Mean operative time was comparable in both groups (V-Loc group - 109.36±33.02 and Vicryl group - 108.49±40.48; p = 0.91). Other intraoperative parameters, such as blood loss and number of stitches in cuff closure, and postoperative characteristics, such as pain score, duration of hospital stay, vaginal cuff-related complications (vault cuff dehiscence, hematoma, or abscess), and dyspareunia, were comparable in both the groups. Conclusions The unidirectional barbed suture significantly reduces vaginal cuff closure time. It is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated alternative to conventional Vicryl suture for vaginal cuff closure in TLH without increasing the risk of postoperative vaginal complications particularly where affordability is not an issue and resources are accessible.

Laparoscopic versus vaginal cuff closure in laparoscopic hysterectomy: does it affect female sexuality?

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of vaginal cuff closure technique in laparoscopic hysterectomy on vaginal length and female sexual functions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was conducted at a tertiary research hospital. Women who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy were included and classified according to vaginal cuff closure technique as laparoscopic (n = 75) and vaginal route (n = 25). Vaginal lengths were measured preoperatively and at 6th month postoperatively. Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS) was used to evaluate female sexual functions. SPSS was used for statistical analysis and the level of significance was p = 0.05. RESULTS: Preoperative GRISS scores and vaginal lengths were similar in two groups. The shortening of vaginal length and the worsening of GRISS scores were more prominent in vaginal cuff closure group (p = 0.002, p < 0.001). The alteration in vaginal length was positively correlated with the alteration in GRISS score in vaginal and laparoscopic route groups (r = 0.800, p < 0.001; r = 0.680, p < 0.001). The risk of female sexual dysfunction increases 69.88 fold for each 1 cm shortening of vaginal length (p = 0.039). Discriminative value of postoperative vaginal length for female sexual dysfunction in patients who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy was investigated and a cut-off value of 7.4 cm (p < 0.001) was found. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic route instead of vaginal route in laparoscopic hysterectomy is preferable to preserve a better vaginal length, which may be an important factor for female sexual functions.

Arm reduced robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy with transvaginal cuff closure.

INTRODUCTION: The use of robotics for benign etiology in gynecology has not proven to be more beneficial when compared to traditional laparoscopy. The major concern regarding robotic hysterectomy stems from its high cost. AIM: To evaluate the clinical utility and effectiveness of one-arm reduced robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy as a cost-effective surgical option for total robotic hysterectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A sample population of 54 women who underwent robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery for benign gynecologic indications was evaluated, and two groups were identified: (1) the two-armed robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery group (n = 38 patients), and (2) the three-armed robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery group (n = 16 patients). RESULTS: An increased cost was observed when three-armed robotic surgery was employed for benign gynecologic surgery (p < 0.001). The cost reduction observed in the study group was primarily derived from one robotic arm reduction and vaginal closure of the cuff. This cost reduction was achieved without an increase in complication rates or undesirable postoperative outcomes. An estimated profit between $399.5 and $421.5 was made for each patient depending on the suture material chosen for cuff closure. Two-armed surgery resulted in an 18.6% reduction in procedure-specific costs for robotic hysterectomy. CONCLUSIONS: Two-armed robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy appears to be a cost-effective solution for robotic gynecologic surgery. This surgical solution can be performed as effectively as classical three-armed robotic hysterectomies for benign indications without the risk of increased surgical-related morbidities. This approach has the potential to be a widely preferred surgical approach in medical communities where cost reduction is one of the primary determinants of surgery type.

Cuff Closure by Vaginal Route in TLH: Case Series and Review of Literature.

Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH) represents one of the most performed gynaecological procedures nowadays. The closure of the vaginal cuff is the most diffucult part of TLH because of the difficulty of laparoscopic suturing techniques. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vaginal cuff closure by vaginal route on patients submitted to TLH. During the period between January 2013 to December 2015 total number of 64 laparoscopic hysterectomy were performed in our clinic. TLH and vaginal vault closure was performed as described by Ghezzi for all patients. The length of cuff closure time and the frequency of vaginal cuff-related complications were measured. Mean age was 48.1 (38-71) years, mean parity was 2.6 (1-9). Most ranked indications for hysterectomy were abnormal uterine bleeding and symptomatic leiomyoma. Average cuff closure time was 6 (2-17) minute. In average 24 (2-36) month follow-up there were no vaginal vault dehiscence. Transvaginal vaginal cuff closure seems to be safe, easy and effective for total vaginal hysterectomy. Using vaginal route can significantly reduce the length of closure time. This technique has comparable complication rates with endoscopic suturing techniques.

Vaginal cuff closure technique and the risk for infected pelvic hematoma after vaginal hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVES: Infected pelvic hematoma is a relatively common complication of vaginal hysterectomy, manifesting with postoperative pain and fever which often necessitate surgical drainage. We aimed to assess the effect of the surgical technique for vaginal cuff closure on the incidence of this complication. STUDY DESIGN: Until March 31, 2010, our surgical protocol for vaginal hysterectomy included complete vaginal cuff closure. After this date, all surgeries were performed using another technique, by which a patent tract was left at the vaginal cuff for drainage of blood, secretions and debris. We reviewed medical records of all women who underwent vaginal hysterectomy for pelvic organ prolapse in our institution between January 2006 and November 2015, including demographic, clinical and surgical data. We compared the incidence of postoperative infected pelvic hematomas before and after March 31, 2010. RESULTS: We identified 325 women who underwent vaginal hysterectomy during the first time period (group I) and 243 women who underwent this procedure during the second time period (group II). While demographic and clinical data were not significantly different between the two groups, the incidence of infected pelvic hematomas necessitating hospitalization was significantly lower in group II (3.8% vs. 13.5%, p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: A significant reduction in the incidence of infected pelvic hematoma following vaginal hysterectomy was noted using a surgical technique that allows for drainage of blood and debris through the vaginal cuff.