Radical Trachelectomy Performed During Pregnancy: A Review of the Literature

Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2016 May;26(4):758-62. doi: 10.1097/IGC.0000000000000655.

Abstract

Objective: Cervical cancer is one of the most frequent malignant diseases diagnosed during pregnancy. Abdominal or vaginal radical trachelectomies are fertility-preserving alternatives to radical hysterectomy for young women with early-stage cervical cancer that can be performed during ongoing pregnancy.

Methods: A literature review of articles on this subject was conducted through a Medline search for articles published in English or French.

Results: At this moment, 21 cervical cancer patients, including ours (4 stage IA2, 16 IB1, and 1 IB2) who underwent radical trachelectomy during pregnancy have been reported. Of these, 10 were performed by vaginal route and 11 were abdominal radical trachelectomies.

Conclusions: Radical trachelectomy could be offered as an option for pregnant patients with early invasive cervical cancer. It may help women avoid the triple losses of a desired pregnancy, fertility, and motherhood.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Prognosis
  • Trachelectomy / methods*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / surgery*