Objectives: Our purpose was to evaluate the effects and safety of laparoscopic dissection of the uterine artery and coagulation of the utero-ovarian ligament in treating symptomatic myomas.
Material and methods: We studied 40 women, aged 31 to 50, with symptomatic uterine fibroids undergoing laparoscopic dissection of the uterine artery and coagulation of the utero-ovarian ligament Ultrasound examination of uterus and dominant fibroid were performed. Their volume reduction was measured. Clinical response was evaluated according to questionnaire assessing the level of menstrual bleeding, pain and urgency.
Results: There were no complications during operations. Within 6 months after the surgery the mean uterus volume was reduced by 22% and mean volume of dominant fibroid was reduced by 51%. Six months after the surgery menstrual bleeding was reduced in case of 34/38 patients (85%), completed pain relief has been observed in case of 19/25 patients (76%). In case of 11/15 (73%) patients, a regression of urgency has been observed.
Conclusions: Laparoscopic dissection of the uterine artery and coagulation of the utero-ovarian ligament is a safe and effective method of treating symptomatic myomas. It is an alternative to hysterectomy, especially for women who wish to preserve their uterus.