ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the feasibility and advantages of transvaginal hysterectomy (TVH) for enlarged uterus without prolapse. Methods Six hundred and ninety-six patients underwent TVH for gynecological disorders from Sept, 1998 to Dec, 2002. Meanwhile, the method of operation, complications of surgery, operation time, estimated operative blood loss, postoperative recovery and hospital stay days were retrospectively analyzed. Results The operation was successful in 693 out of 696 cases (99.6%). The mean operative time was 49.3 minutes (11-125 minutes). The estimated blood loss was 69.7ml (15-450ml). Operative injuries were found in 3 patients (0.4%). Complications attributable to surgery were found in 6 cases (1%). The mean time of subsidence of fever was 1.2 days (0-5 days) and the time of passing flatus was 22.6 hours (8-32 hours). The average hospital stay was 5.3 days (4-15 days). Conclusion TVH can be performed safely for most of non-prolapsed large uterus. Because it has the advantages of less bleeding, short operating time, rapid recovery and less cost compared to TAH and LAVH, it is our opinion it should be the first option for enlarged uterus.