The role of minimally invasive gynecologic surgeons in the era of subspecialties: when to refer and consult

Michael Shu, J’Leise Sosa, J'Leise Sosa, Henry Reyes Pineda, Henry D Reyes, Abeer Eddib, Alexander Eswar
Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology · 2022 · vol. 34(4) , pp. 190–195 · doi:10.1097/gco.0000000000000795 · PMID:35895960 · W4288060863
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⚙ AI-generated summary by claude@2026-06, 2026-06-08 ⓘ

This review defines referral criteria for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery subspecialists in cases of complex fibroids, endometriosis, and hysterectomies based on patient and disease characteristics.

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Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) is a subspecialty focus of obstetrics and gynecology with focused expertise on complex benign gynecologic disorders. To date, no formal recommendations have been made in defining a referral system for MIGS. This article reviews the evidence regarding common disorders and procedures and their outcomes, and posits a basis for MIGS referral. RECENT FINDINGS: In instances where intraoperative and perioperative features may pose clinical challenges to the surgeon and ultimately the patient, the literature suggests the following scenarios may have adverse outcomes, and therefore, benefit from the skills of MIGS subspecialists: fibroids - at least five myomas, myoma size at least 9 cm, and suspected myoma weight at least 500 g; endometriosis - presence of endometrioma(s), suspected stage III/IV endometriosis, and requirement for advanced adjunct procedures; hysterectomy - uteri at least 250 g or 12 weeks estimated size, at least three prior laparotomies, obesity, and complex surgical history with suspected adhesive disease. SUMMARY: A referral system for MIGS subspecialists has proven benefits for both the gynecologic surgical community as well as the patients and their outcomes. This article provides evidence for collaboration with MIGS especially as it relates to leiomyomatous uteri, endometriosis, and complex hysterectomies.

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Condition tags

mesh:D004715endometriosisendometrioma

MeSH descriptors

Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Laparoscopy Laparoscopy Laparoscopy Laparoscopy Laparoscopy Laparoscopy Laparoscopy Myoma Myoma Myoma Myoma Myoma

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References (55)

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License: CC0 · commercial use OK