Clinical comparison of minimal invasive hysterectomy techniques: Laparoscopic hysterectomy vs. Vaginal hysterectomy

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the clinical outcomes of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) and vaginal hysterectomy (VH). Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review of 385 women who underwent TLH or VH between November 2012 and October 2013 was accomplished. Clinical outcomes including operation time, hemoglobin change, rate of complications, febrile morbidity, consumption of analgesics, and hospital stay were estimated. Sexual activity and resumption to work of these patients were evaluated according to outpatient medical records and additional questionnaire. Results: There were no differences in outcomes between the two groups other than the mean weight of uterus (VH: 243.93, TLH: 216.94 grams, p = 0.019) and operating time (VH: 97.2, TLH: 142.58 minutes, p < 0.001). TLH was also associated with a shorter hospital stay (VH: 5.23, TLH: 3.50 days, p < 0.001) and less consumption of analgesics. Sexual activity after the operation was not different but resumption to work was definitely earlier in the TLH group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: TLH could be a potent alternative to VH for benign disease, considering its benefits in clinical outcomes and quality of life.