Laparoscopic versus laparotomic approach to endometrial cancer

Objective: The aim of our study was to compare the feasibility, morbidity, long-term safety, disease-free survival, and overall survival of the laparoscopic (LPS) approach to early-stage endometrial cancer (EC) compared to the traditional laparotomic approach. Methods: We reviewed retrospective data of patients who underwent primary surgery from 1997 to 2009. We recorded clinical parameters, surgical stage, histological type, operative and peri-operative complications, time to resumption of normal functions, conversion to laparotomy, overall survival, and disease-free survival. Results: LPS, did not increase operative risk and peri-operative complications even in obese and older women. The number of pelvic lymph and aortic nodes removed was similar for the two groups. One hundred and eight patients had a follow-up of 60 months. The two groups were similar for disease-free survival and overall survival. Conclusions: Laparoscopic approach to EC provides a reduction in postoperative complications and hospital stay compared to the laparotomic approach.