Surgical steps of total laparoscopic hysterectomy: Part 1: Benign disease by the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE)1

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic hysterectomy, which is associated with well-documented benefits compared to an abdominal approach, should be the surgical treatment choice for certain gynaecological conditions. The aim of this document is to provide recommendations on the technical aspects of this procedure.

Materials and methods: The European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) has established a working group with the goal of standardizing the surgical steps of total laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign disease, which is one of the most commonly performed major surgical procedures in Gynaecology.

Results: A properly equipped surgical theatre and the correct positioning of both the laparoscopic tower and the surgeons are of utmost importance and insure that the surgical procedure can be performed uneventfully.The incorporation of standardized surgical steps in routine practice should help to ensure an optimal surgical outcome based on the available scientific evidence as reviewed by expert surgeons.

Conclusions: The description of the surgical steps of total laparoscopic hysterectomy and its adoption by minimally invasive gynaecologists will make this approach safer.

Keywords: Laparoscopic hysterectomy; benign disease; minimally invasive surgery; operative outcome; surgical steps.