Laparoscopic hysterectomy as the method of choice for hysterectomy in female-to-male gender dysphoric individuals

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to report on a large series of laparoscopic hysterectomy in female-to-male (FTM) transsexual patients. A retrospective study was carried out by the gender team of Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium. The patient files of 83 consecutive cases of laparoscopic hysterectomy between April 2003 and August 2007 were reviewed and analyzed. The average operating time for the laparoscopic hysterectomy was 64 (30-150) min. The estimated blood loss for the laparoscopic hysterectomy averaged 86 (25-600) ml. We encountered two bladder perforations, which were immediately repaired, and one hematoma of the vaginal dome, which necessitated a second intervention. The serious complication rate of our series is 3.6%. Sex reassignment surgery (SRS) has proven to be the most effective treatment for patients with gender dysphoria. In FTM transsexual individuals, hysterectomy is an essential part of SRS. Since 2003, we have performed laparoscopic hysterectomy in conjunction with a subcutaneous mastectomy as a first step in SRS in FTM transsexual patients, thus, facilitating the transition for the patient and improving the operative planning for the different surgical teams. Laparoscopic hysterectomy has undoubtedly proven to be superior to abdominal hysterectomy regarding postoperative pain and recuperation, while it is as safe as the vaginal or abdominal route. We think that laparoscopic hysterectomy is the most appropriate method for hysterectomy in FTM transsexual patients. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.