ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility and safety of laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) using 3-trocar method through the previous operation scar for uterus weighing 300 g or more in the management of gynecologic disease. METHODS: This retrospective study was peformed in 51 cases of LAVH with uterus weighing 300 g or more and with symptomatic benign gynecologic diseases (leiomyoma or adenomyosis). LAVH was performed through 3-trocar method (one trocar below the umbilicus, and two trocars at the point about 2 cm above and medial side of each anterior superior iliac spine, or at the bilateral edges of the previous operation scar). RESULTS: Previous operation history was found in 17 cases (33.3%) and cesarean section was the most common. There was no difference in the age, body mass index, parity, length of operation, amount of blood loss, hemoglobin change, length of gas out, and hospital stay, rate of transfusion and complication between two groups divided by history of operation (P>0.05). Uterine weight in the group having operation history was lighter than that in group having not operation history (519.91+/-220.53 g and 381.24+/-70.63 g, respectively, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: LAVH for large uterus weighing 300 g or more using 3-trocar method through previous operation scar is safe and effective operation method, and may be an alternative to abdominal hysterectomy in selected patients.