Objective: Morbidity associated with radical hysterectomy is significant. Utilizing the endoscopic stapler for transection of the cardinal ligaments and uterosacral ligaments is a possible method to decrease operative time and blood loss.
Methods: Two groups of patients, one group with the stapler used (n = 21) and the other with the traditional method utilized (n = 18), were compared in regard to operative and postoperative morbidity, operative time, and surgical margins. The groups were similar in regard to medical condition, age, and weight.
Results: Median (243 min versus 284 min) and mean (246 min versus 287 min) operative times were significantly less in the stapler group than in the control group (P < 0.002). Median blood loss was reduced by 20% in the stapler group (400 ml versus 500 ml, P < 0.03). There was no significant difference in febrile morbidity, surgical complications, or length of hospital stay.
Conclusion: Our data suggest significant reduction in blood loss and operative time with the use of the endoscopic stapler.
Copyright 1998 Academic Press.