Pelvic lymphadenectomy for cervical cancer: Extraperitoneal versus laparoscopic approach

ObjectiveTo compare the extraperitoneal versus the laparoscopic technique in performing pelvic lymphadenectomy in a series of patients undergoing a radical vaginal hysterectomy for locally advanced cervical cancer.Study designRetrospective study with 42 patients undergoing a radical vaginal hysterectomy for cervical cancer. Patients from group A (20 patients) had a laparoscopic lymph node dissection and patients belonging to group B (22 patients) had an extraperitoneal lymphadenectomy. Historical data, clinical and surgical characteristics, perioperative and post-operative complications were analyzed. Follow-up was conducted according to the oncologic requirements.ResultsNo significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of blood loss, post-operative pain, transfusions, hospital stay and post-operative hematomas. The extraperitoneal group (group B) significantly showed a reduced operating time, a greater number of nodes removed (p < 0.05). The only lymphocyst occurred in group B.ConclusionsExtraperitoneal pelvic lymphadenectomy can be considered an adequate technique to complement radical vaginal operations for cervical cancer.