Using the LigaSure vessel sealing device in the large uterus at laparoscopic hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To compare intraoperative hemorrhage and other operative parameters between patients with large and small weighted uterus who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-six patients intending to have LH were divided into two groups according to uterine weight (group 1 > 300 grams vs. group 2 < 299 grams). Intraoperative blood loss, operating time, periopera- tive complications, and duration of hospitalization were compared. RESULTS: Intraoperative blood loss was significantly higher in the large uterus group (group 1); 350 (227-454) ml vs. 250 (182-320) ml (p < 0.001). However, it was not significantly different between the groups in the laparoscopy step. Mean operating time was 90 (77-103) minutes and 80 (62-98) minutes in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p < 0.001) revealing ten-minute delay in group 1. Similarly, this was also not significantly different in the laparoscopy step. No significant differences were found between two groups; in terms of hemoglobin concentration decrease, major and minor complications, and hospitalization duration. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that LigaSure can be safely used for LH in patients with a large uterus.