Do endometriosis symptoms decrease after laparoscopic surgery?

An observational study was conducted within the International Endometriosis Evaluation Program at Erlangen University Hospital between 09/2018 and 08/2022, comparing distinct groups of 241 endometriosis patients diagnosed through laparoscopy. Data were collected through patient records and structured questionnaires, covering demographic information, symptom evaluation, and surgical details. Statistical analysis was performed using the t-test and the chi-square-test.

Patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis reported more defecation pain (p=0.05), but not of higher intensity. Pelvic pain was universal in revised American Society of Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) III-IV patients, and in 94% of rASRM I patients. rASRM II-IV patients suffered from more urination and defecation pain, with a higher urination pain intensity. 59.8% of the ptients had a complete lesion excision, while 81% reported reduced pain post-surgery. Higher rASRM stage correlated with pain reduction, but lesion type or Enzian classification did not affect pain relief. Other factors like hormonal therapy, BMI, age, and pregnancies had no impact. Summary: This study highlights the impact of endometriosis on patients' lives, emphasizing the importance of clinical symptom assessment. While surgical intervention showed promising outcomes in reducing pain symptoms, further predictors need to be identified to enhance classification systems and improve overall patient care. Publication History Article published online: 01 October 2024 © 2024. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Rüdigerstraße 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany