Objective: To compare the surgical management and follow-up of patients with endometriomas managed by endoscopic surgery versus laparotomy using a retrospective case control format.
Design: Endoscopic oophorocystectomies were performed on 36 patients. Chart review of laparotomy oophorocystectomies from 21 patients was conducted. Six-week and 12-month follow-up for evaluation of symptoms, evidence of recurrence, and fertility was available on all subjects.
Results: In the endoscopy group, 39 patients had screening laparoscopy for possible endoscopic surgery. Three of this group required laparotomy and 36 patients underwent endoscopic surgery. Chart review identified 21 patients who had undergone primary laparotomy for endometriomas. Patient groups were matched for age, severity of disease, presence of other infertility factors, and absence of perioperative medical suppression. Outcome parameters for each group were: operating time--endoscopy 2.8 hours (+/- 1.2), laparotomy 3.1 hours (+/- 1.8); estimated blood loss--endoscopy 40 cc (+/- 45); laparotomy, 240 cc (+/- 107); recovery time--endoscopy, 6.2 days (+/- 2.5), laparotomy 30 days (+/- 6.8); endometrioma recurrence rate--endoscopy 11.1%, laparotomy 19%; and pregnancy rate--endoscopy 42.8%, laparotomy 46.6%.
Conclusion: A high percentage of patients with endometriomas associated with advanced endometriosis can be managed effectively by endoscopic surgery.