May it be a new non-hormonal treatment option for endometriosis patients?
Heidi Ledford published a news in Nature, entitled “How understudied endometriosis causes pain for hundreds of millions of women”. She aimed to summarize the recent status about endometriosis treatment options. Pain-sensing nerves and immune cells interact to worsen both pain…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe current management of endometriosis-related infertility.
Endometriosis is a chronic disease affecting women of reproductive age, often presenting with pelvic pain such as dyspareunia, dyschezia, and dysuria, or inertility, and significantly impacting quality of life. Management should be individualized based on symptoms, reproductive goals, age,…
Key Points Lay SummaryImpact of Nerve Preservation During Parametrectomy on Urinary Retention in Deep Endometriosis Surgery
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is the most advanced form of the disease, characterized by lesions penetrating deeper than 5 mm. Surgical treatment requires a meticulous approach to minimize functional complications. Deep lesions involving the parametrium, uterosacral ligaments, and anterior rectal…
Key Points Lay SummaryDIE Complex and Requires Interdisciplinary Approach
The vast majority of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) cases are treated with minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery according to a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. Moreover, there is a high need for interdisciplinary operations. “Our results emphasize…
Key Points Lay SummaryExcisional vs Ablative Surgery for Ovarian Endometriomas: Fertility and Recurrence Rates
Endometriomas are typically treated surgically with either cystectomy or ablation and drainage. Laparoscopic surgery offers benefits such as shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery, and reduced healthcare costs. Many women undergo endometrioma surgery prior to fertility treatments or to enhance their…
Key Points Lay SummaryMore Young Patients Regret Having a Hysterectomy Than Older Ones
A study published inObstetrics & Gynecology found that patients aged 30 or younger were more likely to regret their decision to undergo a hysterectomy compared to those aged 31 to 49, regardless of factors such as parity, prior sterilization, or previous…
Key Points Lay SummaryLaparoscopic Excision vs. Ablation in Endometriosis: A Comparison of Symptom and Quality of Life Outcomes
Laparoscopic excision surgery showed greater benefits over many symptoms and quality of life measures in patients with endometriosis who previously underwent ablation surgery. This is according to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. This finding is…
Key Points Lay SummaryComparison of Postoperative Complications in Total vs. Supracervical Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Endometriosis
Dr. Raanan Meyer and his team from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, have published a study in Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, comparing the outcomes of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) and laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSCH) in patients with endometriosis. A…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery for Deep Endometriosis: Reproductive Outcomes in Infertile Women
Deep endometriosis (DE) is a severe form of endometriosis where endometriotic growths invade deeper tissues such as the pelvic organs, including the bowel, bladder, and sometimes nerves. This type of endometriosis is often linked to infertility, but the exact relationship…
Key Points Lay SummaryIntegrating Virtual Reality Modeling for Enhanced Surgical Management of Endometriosis
Transvaginal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) conducted by experts are generally sufficient for the surgical planning and management of endometriosis, as noted in a recent study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. However, incorporating novel techniques such as 3D printing…
Key Points Lay SummaryNerve-Sparing Surgery Safe in DIE
Robot-assisted nerve-sparing modified radical hysterectomy is associated with longer operative times and lower estimated blood loss compared to the conventional laparoscopic approach to treat deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE), according to a new study published in the scientific journal Archives of…
Key Points Lay SummaryBladder Endometriosis: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
About 70-80% of urinary tract endometriosis occurs in the bladder, particularly affecting the base and dome regions. Endometriotic lesions can penetrate the detrusor muscle either partially or completely. Endometriosis affecting the uterovesical fold peritoneum or deep endometriosis that does not involve…
Key Points Lay SummaryPost Surgery Endometrioma Recurrence
Endometrioma is a common form of endometriosis. Endometrioma cystectomy is the preferred treatment, as it is more effective than ablation or laser vaporization in reducing pain and recurrence. While medical treatment can help prevent recurrence after surgery, postoperative hormonal therapy…
Key Points Lay SummaryPersonalized Surgical Strategies for Bowel Endometriosis to Enhance Patient Outcomes
Bowel endometriosis often impacts the rectum or sigmoid colon, causing significant symptoms and reducing fertility. Treatments include hormonal therapy and surgery, with techniques varying widely. Crestani et al., in the leadership of Dr. Horace Roman, conducted a study aiming to…
Key Points Lay SummaryConventional Laparoscopy as Good as Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopy
Both conventional laparoscopy and robotic-assisted laparoscopy are associated with significant long-term symptom relief in patients with endometriosis involving the sacral plexus and sciatic nerve, according to a new study published in the International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics. “Although surgeons…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhy we should prefer nerve-sparing surgery in deep endometriosis?
Despite its benign nature, deep endometriosis can mimic malignant processes and infiltrate multiple organs, blood vessels, ligaments, and nerves within the pelvis. When conservative medical management fails, the need for surgical excision of endometriotic lesions arises. The surgeons aim to…
Key Points Lay SummaryLaparoscopic procedures can alleviate fatigue in women suffering from endometriosis
The most common symptoms of endometriosis include pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility. Effective management is essential due to the significant impact these symptoms have on a woman's quality of life. Fatigue, characterized by persistent and severe tiredness, is also…
Key Points Lay SummaryRobot-assisted laparoscopy for deep infiltrating endometriosis of bowel
Deep infiltrating endometriosis is characterized by lesions larger than 5 mm that penetrate the peritoneum or invade the muscular layer of adjacent organs, affecting over 20% of women with endometriosis. Bowel involvement occurs in 5-12% of cases and may present with…
Key Points Lay SummarySuperiority of hysterectomy over lesion excision in the treatment of rectovaginal endometriosis
Confirmative treatment of endometriosis includes excision or ablation of visible lesions while conserving the uterus and ovaries. On the contrary, the radical approach involves total hysterectomy and even bilateral oophorectomy to create a hypo-estrogen state, remove adenomyosis if it exists,…
Key Points Lay SummaryDiagnosis and management of treatment in diaphragmatic endometriosis.
Diaphragmatic endometriosis is a rare extra-pelvic type of deep endometriosis with a prevalence of 0,19% to 4,75. In symptomatic women, the symptoms are characterized by non-specific chest pain, shoulder pain, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, and pneumothorax, whereas 75% of…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe depth of the iceberg: Parametrial involvement in deep endometriosis
Academicians led by members of the International School of Surgical Anatomy from Italy have published their paper on parametrial involvement of deep endometriosis in the medical periodical named “Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynecology”. Deep endometriosis is troublesome when…
Key Points Lay SummaryKey Aspects of Ureterolysis in deep endometriosis surgery
Deep endometriosis surgery needs talented surgeons to preserve and protect vital structures during the excision of endometriotic lesions. The technique for ureterolysis is essential to mitigate the risk of ureteral injuries and improve patient outcomes. Dr. Chatroux and Dr. Einarsson…
Key Points Lay SummaryDo I Need Assisted Reproduction to Become Pregnant After Endometriosis Surgery?
Researchers from Argentina developed a decision tree that can help identify patients who might need assisted reproduction techniques to become pregnant following endometriosis surgery. This way, the time between surgery and pregnancy could be minimized and the overall outcome may…
Key Points Lay SummaryPainful Sex Might Be a Valid Indication for Endometriosis Surgery
According to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology, the type of endometriosis surgery, and pain improvement after surgery may be linked. More precisely, rectovaginal endometriosis surgery may be associated with reduced dyspareunia or painful intercourse. “Clinicians…
Key Points Lay SummaryPostoperative pain-related quality of life for patiens with different types of endometriosis surgery.
Endometriosis surgery usually improves chronic pelvic pain and the quality of life in women suffering from that disease. Response to surgery depends on several factors, however, in younger ages, recurrence of both pain and endometriosis lesions are reported. Most research…
Key Points Lay SummaryCurrent practice in robotic surgery for deep-infiltrating endometriosis
Today, surgical excision of endometriotic lesions is the only cytoreductive procedure for managing endometriosis. Hormonal treatment may partly relieve the symptoms, but it suppresses rather than cytoreduction of the disease. Minimally invasive surgery is usually the most preferred method due…
Key Points Lay SummarySpontaneous Conception After Deep Endometriosis Surgery
Deep endometriosis is a severe form of endometriosis where lesions invade deeper than 5 mm into subperitoneal space. Surgical management of the disease is a challenging task requiring a multi-disciplinary approach and significant expertise in the field. Anastomotic leaks, fistula,…
Key Points Lay SummaryShould I Have Endometriosis Surgery Before IVF-ICSI?
The live birth rate per in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine sperm injection (ICSI) cycle was significantly reduced in women who underwent surgery to treat endometriosis before the procedures, found a new study published in the scientific journal Reproductive Sciences. “These…
Key Points Lay SummaryBladder Function Alterations Following Endometriosis Surgery
Although endometriosis is a common gynecologic disorder, urinary tract involvement is present in only 1-5% of these patients. When endometriosis invades the urinary tract, clinical symptoms may vary from asymptomatic to frequency, urgency, bladder pain, hematuria, and recurrent urinary infections.…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery Pivotal in Improving Quality of Life in Endometriosis Patients
Surgery plays a pivotal role in improving the quality of life of women with endometriosis who have previously not responded to medical therapy. This is according to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. During the…
Key Points Lay SummaryA unique approach for visualising endometriosis during surgery
Dr. Jing Peng and associates from Shangai, China have made an experimental study on precise visualization of endometriotic lesions with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog-modified indocyanine green, publishing their results in the Journal of Molecular Imaging. Surgical interventions are important aspects of…
Key Points Lay SummaryIs Your Surgeon Stressed?
Stress during endometriosis surgery among surgeons is greater than what they anticipate, according to a new study published in the scientific journal Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. The stress symptoms reported by surgeons start before surgery and is more common among…
Key Points Lay SummaryRobotic Surgery For Endometriosis
Robotic surgery is an option for the treatment of severe endometriosis, according to the results of a preliminary comparative study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. However, the approach is associated with higher costs. “Next studies should identify…
Key Points Lay SummaryA non-invasive test to determine the risk of endometriosis in women having chronic pelvic pain or unexplained infertility
Women having endometriosis may suffer from chronic pelvic pain and/or infertility, both of which diminish the quality of life in these women. Minimalization of the time between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis is essential to improve patients’ lives. However,…
Key Points Lay SummaryDeep infiltrating endometriosis and postoperative pregnancy outcomes
Although the current ESHRE guidelines state that there is no strong evidence to support surgical intervention to improve the spontaneous pregnancy rate in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis and advise Assisted reproduction technology irrespective of the severity of endometriosis, several studies…
Key Points Lay SummaryNo increased risk of major postoperative complications in women operated by experienced surgeons in endometriosis centers
Recurrent surgery may be needed in up to 35% of endometriosis patients. The reason for repeated surgery may be residual or recurrent disease. In other words, multiple surgical procedures are a common phenomenon for women having endometriosis. Knowing the impact…
Key Points Lay SummaryRobotic Surgery Not Linked With More Complications in Certain Cases
Robotic-assisted excision surgery to treat large rectal endometriotic nodules larger than 3 cm is not associated with a higher risk of complications following the operation compared to conventional laparoscopy, according to a new study published in the journal Colorectal Diseases.…
Key Points Lay SummaryPerioperative complications of outpatient surgery for endometriosis.
Surgical treatment of endometriosis plays an essential role in managing the disease. They are miscellaneous perioperative complications such as incomplete removal of the lesions, low quality of the first surgery, or incorrect approach to laparoscopic surgeries that result in increased…
Key Points Lay SummaryComparison of two different surgical approach to deep colorectal endometriosis in terms of postoperative outcomes.
Deep colorectal endometriosis affects one-fifth of women with endometriosis, which is commonly associated with more pelvic pain and severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Three surgical approaches for deep colorectal endometriosis are segmental colorectal resection, full-thickness discoid resection, and shaving operation. Choosing the…
Key Points Lay Summary"Transumblical single-port laparoscopy" for deep infiltrating endometriosis.
Deep infiltrating endometriosis patients have multi-system involvements, severe pelvic adhesions, and pelvic pain. Dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, infertility, gastrointestinal symptoms, and lower urinary tract symptoms seriously affect their quality of life. Although hormonal therapy may be the first choice for treating endometriosis,…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe public plea of international group of "endometriosis experts"
A group of international “endometriosis experts” led by Professor Philippe R. Koninckx from Belgium, have published their unique scientific paper “The 10 “Cardinal Sins” in the Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometriosis: A Bayesian Approach” in a recent issue of…
Key Points Lay SummaryA Starch-Based Gel Barrier Reduces Pain and Improves Fertility After Endometriosis Surgery
The development of pain was reduced in women with endometriosis who underwent surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) resection and the "gel barrier 4DryField® PH" was used during the operation, according to results from a randomized controlled trial. Moreover, fertility was improved. "4DryField® PH"…
Key Points Lay SummaryPostoperative outcomes of laparoscopic rectosigmoid resection for bowel endometriosis.
Rectosigmoid endometriosis comprises 80-85% of all bowel endometriosis cases and can be localized in the rectovaginal septum, uterosacral ligaments, retro-cervical region, and parametrium. Symptoms of rectosigmoid endometriosis include abdominal bloating, constipation-diarrhea, lower-back pain, dyschezia, and sometimes cyclic rectal bleeding. Minimally…
Key Points Lay SummaryPreoperative MRI Scoring System Could Ensure Women Are Fully Informed
The Deep Pelvic Endometriosis Index is able to predict the length of surgery and hospital stay as well as complications following surgery including voiding dysfunction, according to a new multicenter cohort study, the results of which were published in The Journal…
Key Points Lay SummaryChanges over time in day surgery for endometriosis in Canada
There are several medical and surgical treatment options for the management of endometriosis. Surgical approach is generally preferred in women with atypical endometrioma appearance on ultrasound, and who have persistent pain despite medical treatment. Surgery is often the first choice…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery for Deep Endometriosis
In recent years, minimally invasive surgery has gained popularity, providing the best results in gynecologic cancers and deeply infiltrated endometriosis. With the help of a high-definition camera displayed on a TV monitor, the small structures are enlarged 4-7 times and…
Key Points Lay SummaryIntegrative medical management of endometriosis
This lecture entitled "Integrative Medical Management of Endometriosis" was presented by Dr. Pinar Kodaman, Director of the endoscopic reproductive surgery program and Assoc. Professor of Clinical ObGyn and Reproductive Sciences at the Yale School of Medicine. In addition to surgery which…
Key Points Lay SummaryIs there any advantage of addition of hysterectomy on deep endometriotic pelvic pain or on the quality of life?
The addition of hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy to the endometriosis excision surgery provided greater benefits when compared to excision surgery alone, according to the results of a comparison study that was recently published in the journal named "Facts Views and Visions in Obstetrics…
Key Points Lay SummaryFirst-line surgery or first-line ART: A real challenge both for the clinicians and infertile women having DIE without colorectal involvement
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is defined as the presence of endometriotic lesions over 5 mm in depth under the peritoneal surface. These women suffer from chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, bloody or painful bowel movements, and infertility. There…
Key Points Lay SummaryDoes Endometriosis Surgery Increase the Rate of Pregnancy?
Surgery to treat colorectal endometriosis leads to a high rate of pregnancy following the operation, found a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. The authors of the study said, “studies with a high level of evidence…
Key Points Lay SummaryA Multidisciplinary Surgical Team Is a Must in Deep Endometriosis Surgery
Endometriosis must be managed by a team of multidisciplniary specialists, especially in case it causes damage to the digestive tract, according to a new study published in the journal Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. According to the authors, the presence…
Key Points Lay SummaryCurrent AAGL Staging System Not Good at Predicting Complexity of Endometriosis Surgery
The link between the stage of endometriosis as defined by the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) and the level of surgical complexity is weak or moderate, according to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. …
Key Points Lay SummaryDoes taking all deep endo nodules out improve fertility?
Deep infiltrative endometriosis is an issue that comes to the scene more than before according to detection rates with help of awareness on clinicians. But treating infertility related to endometriosis is still unclear when it comes to DIE patients. In…
Key Points Lay SummaryRare but important entity: perineal endometriosis
Dr. Zhu and colleagues from Peking Union Medical College Hospital have published their retrospective research on "surgically treated perineal endometriosis cases" in a recent issue of BMC’s Women’s Health. Perineal endometriosis is a rare type of endometriosis accounting for at…
Key Points Lay SummaryDeep Endometriosis Surgery and Women’s Quality of Life
The physical and social functions as well as the overall physical health is worse than normal among Spanish women who underwent surgery for deep endometriosis, reported a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. The bodily pain, emotional…
Key Points Lay SummaryMinimally Invasive Surgery Improves the Quality of Life of Women With Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis
Minimally invasive surgery improves the quality of life of women with deep infiltrating endometriosis two years after the operation, according to a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. The results are similar between conservative and total surgery.…
Key Points Lay SummaryOpioid use following operation for endometriosis or pelvic pain
Women with endometriosis have pain in the form of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain, and they have a diminished quality of life depending on the severity of pelvic pain. Opioids have been preferred in many patients suffering from pain,…
Key Points Lay SummaryObstetric Outcomes of Pre-pregnancy Endometriosis Surgery
Endometriosis may be associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, including placenta praevia, preterm birth, premature prelabour rupture of membranes, obstetric hemorrhage, gestational hypertensive disorders, fetal growth restriction, and perinatal death. Some authors have attempted to demonstrate a causal relationship between endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryScientists Try to Understand Consequences of Genetic Changes in Endometriosis
The protocol of the "Endometriosis Research Queensland Study" has been published in the scientific journal BMJ Open. The aim of the study is to collect endometrial tissue associated with the disease and chart its genetic architecture. This way, the researchers aim to…
Key Points Lay SummaryDoes endometrioma size have an effect on IVF/ICSI outcomes?
Assisted reproductive technologies including IVF/ICSI can be suggested as the therapeutic option in women with endometriosis-associated infertility. In literature, there is a controversy regarding the influence of endometrioma size on IVF/ICSI outcomes. The group led by Drs Chapron and Santoulli…
Key Points Lay SummaryAdenomyosis and the anti-mullerian hormone levels
The presence of endometrial glands and stroma in the myometrial layer of the uterus is called adenomyosis. It is considered a form of endometriosis and affects up to 35% of women with varying symptomatology, from asymptomatic to subfertility. For a…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow beneficial is colorectal surgery for patients with deep endometriosis?
In cases of deep endometriosis, which causes more severe pain and gastrointestinal symptoms, the patient's quality of life and fertility outcomes are negatively affected. Surgical intervention is thought to be the optimal treatment method in colorectal deep endometriosis cases, however,…
Key Points Lay SummaryPostoperative serum markers to predict serum AMH recovery following endometriosis surgery
Women with endometriosis seek treatment including ovarian cystectomy, because of symptoms that reduce their quality of life. Ovarian cystectomy using laparoscopic or robotic devices is the preferred therapy. However, it has been shown in the literature that ovarian reserve is…
Key Points Lay SummaryA prediction model to identify endometriosis during routine ultrasound .
. Ureterolysis is an advanced surgical technique that involves dissection of the ureter from pelvic brim to the ureteric tunnel to avoid injury or freeing the ureter from endometriotic lesions. This manipulation usually requieres advanced surgical training and skill. In…
Key Points Lay SummaryParametrial endometriosis and postoperative voiding dysfunction.
Parametrium constitutes a complex connective tissue containing blood vessels, the ureter, and the inferior hypogastric plexus, that extends from the lateral surface of the cervix and vagina to the lateral pelvic wall. Parametrial endometriosis may involve the vessels, nerves, and…
Key Points Lay SummaryTurn around to come to the same spot: Nothing specific to predict AMH decline
Endometriomas are challenging lesions as they might cause a decline in ovarian function either only by their presence or related to their surgery. Thus, any preoperative parameter that might give a vision to a surgeon for postoperative results is crucial.…
Key Points Lay SummaryStudy Identifies Factors Associated With Risk of UrinaryTract Endometriosis Recurrence
Being younger than age 25 and having an autoimmune disease are significant predictors of the recurrence of urinary tract endometriosis after surgery according to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. Adjuvant hormonal therapy, on the…
Key Points Lay SummaryFertility assessment and surgical approach in endometriotic patients.
The prevalence of endometriosis is around 50-70% in women with pelvic pain, and it has been reported as 50% in patients with infertility. Severe adhesive disease associated with advanced endometriosis is a cause of fertility impairment. The relationship between endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryIs it possible to predict recurrence after ovarian endometriosis surgery?
The current treatment methods for endometriosis both have their flaws: the medical treatment is sometimes ineffective and the surgical treatment comes with a high rate of recurrence. Even though new surgical modalities have been developed, laparoscopic cyst removal continues to…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery Improves the Sex Life and Sleep of Women With Endometriosis
Endometriosis surgery improves patients’ quality of life, sexual function, and sleep confirms a new study by Turkish researchers published in the scientific journal Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. According to the first author Dr. Belfin Nur Arici Halici of the…
Key Points Lay SummaryAdenomyosis Increases Risk of Surgical Complications
Adenomyosis increases the risk of deep endometriosis surgery complications, according to a new study published in the journal Scientific Reports. Patients with deep endometriosis and adenomyosis should therefore be informed about this risk before undergoing surgery. Adenomyosis occurs together with…
Key Points Lay SummaryAre the studies based on the nationwide databases more accurate?
One of the most common localizations of endometriosis is the ovaries, and therefore, ovarian endometriomas are among the most surgically treated endometriotic lesions. Dr. Roman from Denmark has recently written an editorial about the surgical interventions on ovarian endometrioma and…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis diagnosis and management based on the best available evidence from published literature
ESHRE, "European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology" published a Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis in 2005 and then revised it in 2013. Based on new research and development there was a need to renew the last…
Key Points Lay SummaryA French National Study Concerning The "Recovery Protocol" After Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis Surgery.
In recent years especially for complex surgeries, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs have been implemented in several surgical specialties. This is based on a multimodal and multidisciplinary approach centered on the patient’s perioperative situation designed to improve patient management and reduce…
Key Points Lay SummaryA novel scoring tool to standardize surgical complexity for gynecologists.
The field of gynecologic surgery needs a more comprehensive, objective, and reproducible method for assessing and communicating surgical complexity than the current approach. Actually, there is no formal image-based system that allows surgeons to categorize and communicate the complexity of…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery for the Treatment of Endometriosis of the Diaphragm and Thorax
Diaphragmatic and thoracic endometriosis starts in the abdominal wall of the diaphragm and later invades the thorax, based on findings from a series of patients surgically treated for the disease, reports a study published in the Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics…
Key Points Lay SummaryDiaphragmatic defects, liver herniations and catamenial pneumothorax
Dr. Arakawa and associates from The Jikei Katsushika Medical Center, Japan, have published their recent case of catamenial pneumothorax with diaphragmatic defect and liver herniation in the "Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery". Catamenial pneumothorax is an uncommon condition with a reported…
Key Points Lay SummaryDiaphragmatic endometriosis
Diaphragmatic endometriosis is a rare clinical condition that may show signs and symptoms like chest pain, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, shoulder pain, pleuritic pain, hemothorax, pneumothorax, hemoptysis, and thoracic endometriosis syndrome while the major part of the patients is…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhich surgical technique is best for rectal endometriosis?
One of the common sites for deep endometriosis is the intestines, with a rate of 3-37%. Intestinal endometriosis constitutes a serious cause of gastrointestinal symptoms, pain, and the alteration of the quality of life, with the rectum and sigmoid colon being…
Key Points Lay SummaryEffects of Bowel Endometriosis Surgery on Mode of Delivery
Less than a third of doctors counsel women about the possible effects of surgical treatment of bowel endometriosis on their mode of delivery should they become pregnant, according to a new study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery before in-vitro fertilization – Is it beneficial in patients with deep endometriosis?
Deep pelvic endometriosis is thought to be related to infertility by altering the pelvic environment and anatomy due to pelvic adhesions, and the changes in endometrial receptivity contribute to it. The discussion on whether the surgical intervention was beneficial started…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow likely is it to get pregnant and have a baby after undergoing surgery for high stage endometriosis?
As one of the most common causes of infertility in women, endometriosis might be surgically interfered with depending on the stage. For Stage I and II endometriosis, surgery is recommended in the latest guidelines to ameliorate fertility rates, however, there…
Key Points Lay SummaryTo be or not to be [surgery or hormonal therapies for pain] that’s the question!
Deep infiltrative endometriosis is the most challenging type of endometriosis disease. Surgical management is the one that most surgeons prefer for dealing with, while it requires experience and usually causes complications related to the requirement of difficult operative techniques. Thus,…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow Likely Am I to Conceive After Endometriosis Surgery?
Women with superficial peritoneal endometriosis and just one type of lesion are more likely to conceive after surgery, according to a new study published in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. This is important because patients will be better…
Key Points Lay SummaryNew Endometriosis Clinical Trial Now Recruiting Participants
A new clinical trial investigating the effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy on quality of life in patients undergoing surgery for endometriosis is now recruiting participants. The randomized, controlled trial aims to recruit 100 participants, ages 18 to 50 with proven endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryCross-cultural translation and adaptation of an endometriosis survey
Endometriosis is a disease that presents heterogeneously which makes it hard to identify a causal relationship. A patient-based questionnaire called Endometriosis Participant Questionnaire (EPQ) has been originated by The World Endometriosis Research Foundation Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonization Project. It…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to Reduce Pain After Laparoscopic Surgery
Using humidified warm gas with forced-air warming blanket during laparoscopic surgery resulted in significantly less pain in the recovery room, according to a new study published in the journal "Surgical Endoscopy". In patients with endometriosis, using humidified warm air even…
Key Points Lay SummaryImpact of surgery before IVF in infertile women with endometrioma
Among the women with endometriosis, 30 to 50% are estimated to have infertility. On the contrary, among women who present with infertility, 25 to 50% are estimated to also have endometriosis. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the association…
Key Points Lay SummaryA new "survey-based" endometriosis diagnostic tool
Endometriosis is a disease that is diagnosed years after its appearance which causes life quality impairment to patients. It is crucial for the patient to find out the probability of the presence of endometriosis, for applying to healthcare providers before…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometrioma post-surgical-recurrence risk factors
Jiang and associates from Dailan Medical University, China published their review manuscript “Risk factors for ovarian endometrioma recurrence following surgical excision: a systematic review and meta‑analysis” in the June 2021 issue of "Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics". The most common form of endometriosis, "ovarian…
Key Points Lay SummaryTechnical Facts for the Prevention of Complications After Deep Endometriosis Surgery
There are no differences in the risk of rectovaginal fistula in women with rectovaginal endometriosis who were managed by a liberal or restrictive policy of preventive stoma according to a study by French researchers published in the Journal of Minimally…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to measure the length of recto-sigmoid deep endometriosis reliably?
An in-depth assessment is needed when rectosigmoid deep endometriosis is decided to be treated surgically. Surgery carries a lot of risks and it is not always easy to decide which procedure the patient would benefit the most from. Patient-oriented surgical…
Key Points Lay SummaryPostoperative Opioid use after Robotic operations for endometriosis, compared to non-endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common disease in patients of fertile age, and many patients require surgery. Robotic surgery is accepted as a minimally invasive method in the management of endometriosis and other benign conditions. However, postoperative pain status and the best pain…
Key Points Lay SummaryAnalyses of the main classification systems of endometriosis in terms of utrasound, MRI and surgery
Several classifications made by gynecologists, image readers, and radiologists lead to confusion while describing the situation and estimating the progress of endometriosis. Daniela Fischerova team from the Charles University of Prague, Czech Republic, analyzed the main classifications of endometriosis in three…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe Severity of Pain Does not Predict Endometriosis or its Stage, Study Confirms
The intensity of pain a woman experiences could predict whether or not she would undergo laparoscopic surgery. However, it could not predict whether she has endometriosis or in case she did, the severity of her disease. This is according to…
Key Points Lay SummaryPredictors for achieving pregnancy in patients with adenomyosis and endometriosis
Adenomyosis and endometriosis are benign conditions, however, both situations are associated with deterioration of life quality, a requirement of hospital administrations, and infertility. Laparoscopic surgery is the main treatment option especially for women who desire pregnancy. Shi and colleagues aimed…
Key Points Lay SummaryOutcomes of chronic pelvic pain of endometriosis after laparoscopic surgery
The prevalence of endometriosis is up to 35-50% among patients with pelvic pain. Among several medical and surgical options to relieve chronic pelvic pain, surgical options are the preferred method but this depends on patients' age, fertility desire, and disease…
Key Points Lay SummaryAdhesion Barrier Helps After Endometriosis Surgery
An adhesion barrier, named "4DryField® PH" significantly reduced the formation of adhesions following endometriosis surgery, according to a new study by German scientists. The formation of adhesions following endometriosis surgery is a severe problem that affects 90% of patients. The…
Key Points Lay SummaryFactors affecting complications and the recurrence of operated deep infiltrating endometriosis
Deep infiltrating endometriosis is classified as penetrating the endometrial tissues more than 5 mm deep on the peritoneal surface, mainly uterosacral ligament, rectovaginal septum, ovarian fossa, pelvic peritoneum, bowels, ureters, and bladder. Treatment of the disease depends on the need…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis Surgery Improves Sex Life
Women who underwent laparoscopic resection surgery to treat their deep infiltrating endometriosis had improved sexual quality of life and health-related quality of life according to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. These findings are important…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhat Happens to Endometriosis Patients After Endometriosis Surgery?
Although few patients with endometriosis who undergo a hysterectomy need repeat surgery, up to 25% of them need minor surgery. Around 20% of patients who undergo conservative surgery with ovarian preservation require additional endometriosis surgery. Up to one in three…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis in intestine! Segmental resection or linear nodulectomy?
Intestinal involvement of endometriosis is common, and the incidence was defined between 45-56%. Previous studies investigating the role of surgery in the management of intestinal endometriosis reported improvement of life quality in up to 95% of cases following surgery. However,…
Key Points Lay SummaryA gentle touch on nerves affects dyspareunia
Endometriosis is a common disorder among women. Previous studies reported endometriosis-related deterioration of the quality of life. Deep dyspareunia is a common symptom of endometriosis and young patients face dyspareunia twice as much. Surgical treatments are alternative to medical therapies in cases…
Key Points Lay SummaryImprovement of the quality of life after surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis.
Deeply infiltrating endometriosis is the most severe form among the endometriosis types. The required laparoscopic approach is the appropriate excision of endometriotic foci from pelvis, by consideration of failure and side effects of the medical treatments. The specialist endometriosis centers…
Key Points Lay SummaryPostoperative long-term estro-progestin therapy for endometrioma
After the removal of ovarian endometriomas, the major concern is the high recurrence rate of symptoms and endometriotic cysts. The estimated recurrence rate of endometriomas is up to 50% at 5 years after surgery. To prevent the recurrence, postoperatively long-term…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis, ART, fertility preservation
This review entitled "The impact of endometriosis on the outcome of assisted reproductive techniques: role of fertility preservation" was written by Necula et al. from Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Biel, Switzerland, and recently published in the journal "Hormone, Molecular Biology and Clinical…
Key Points Lay SummaryPerineal Endometriosis, How Soon Does it Return After Surgery?
The higher the body mass index (BMI) of a woman during delivery and within one month after delivery, the quicker the symptoms of perineal endometriosis return. This is according to a recent study that appeared in the World Journal of…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometrial receptivity after the removal of ovarian endometriotic cysts
Mikhaleva and associates from the "Russian Research Institute of Human Morphology" published their results in “Reproductive Sciences” yielding their novel morphological findings of eutopic endometria in patients following surgical excision of endometriotic ovarian cysts. Current therapeutic measures are targeting to…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe role of hormonal treatment after endometriosis surgery
Postoperative hormonal suppression after endometriosis surgery still does not have a uniform approach. The meta-analysis study conducted by Zakhari et al. aimed to find a significant answer regarding this burden. They analyzed the database systems including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL,…
Key Points Lay SummaryPostoperative pregnancy rate in infertile women with deep infiltrating endometriosis
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is fibrous/muscular infiltration of organs and anatomical structures containing endometrial tissue below the peritoneum regardless of the depth of infiltration. Another definition describes DIE as infiltration of the peritoneum by endometriotic lesions deeper than 5 mm. Pain,…
Key Points Lay SummaryKEYNOTE: Excision Without Mutilation: It’s Possible! - Arnaud Wattiez, MD
In his keynote lecture, Dr. Wattiez talks about the pros and cons of endometriosis surgery and the importance of tailoring endometriosis surgery to individual patients. “Endometriosis is a disease that degrades patient’s wellbeing," Dr. Wattiez says and gives some examples…
Key Points Lay SummaryExploring the Role of Neuropathy in Re-Operative Endometriosis - Marc Possover, MD, PhD
Prof. Possover starts his presentation by summarizing the possible cause of pelvic neuropathy following endometriosis surgery. Pelvic neuropathy is the damage or dysfunction of the pelvic nerve. Prof. Possover explained that this could either be due to incomplete surgery, disease…
Key Points Lay SummaryOperative techniques for Deep Endometriosis Surgery - Shaheen Khazali, MD
In this presentation, Dr. Shaheen Khazali, an endometriosis surgeon specialized in gastrointestinal and urinary tract endometriosis excision and in neuropelveology, talks about the general principles and some techniques for endometriosis surgery focusing on rectovaginal endometriosis. He also describes the "ten…
Key Points Lay SummaryRole of Prophylactic Oophorectomy in Endometriosis Patients with Ovarian Cancer History in the family - Farr Nezhat, MD
Dr. Nezhat starts his presentation by outlining his objectives, which are to review the basics of cancer genetics, give an overview about endometriosis and ovarian cancer, discuss the pathogenesis of malignant transformation of endometriosis, and talk about the clinical implications…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis: Less is better. How to improve the integration between surgical and medical therapy - Errico Zupi, MD
In this presentation, Dr. Errico Zupi, Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Rome talks about the importance of an integrative approach comprising of both medical and surgical interventions to treat endometriosis. "The first…
Key Points Lay SummaryUrological Challenges in Endometriosis Surgery - Guenter Noe, MD
In this presentation, Dr. Guenter Noé, Head of Department of Rheilandklinikum Dormagen in Germany talks about endometriosis affecting the urinary tract. Dr. Noé starts by describing the different parts of the urinary tract that can be affected by endometriosis including…
Key Points Lay SummaryA Possible genetic target for endometriosis treatment
Mutations in the chromosome remodeling complex SWI/SNF subunit ARID1A were first identified in ovarian clear-cell carcinoma and ovarian endometrioid carcinoma, two endometriosis-associated epithelial ovarian cancer subtypes. ARID1A gene mutations are also observed in deep ovarian and deep infiltrating endometriosis, atypical endometrial…
Key Points Lay SummaryPatients' opinion about surgical treatment of endometriosis
Delayed diagnosis and management of endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain is a major problem in gynecologic practice. Alternatively, providers may feel reluctant to perform surgery although they are aware of treatment options and surgical timing. One possible reason for this…
Key Points Lay SummaryTime for reassessment : Laparoscopic surgery and bowel endometriosis
Ferrero and associates from medical centers of Verona and Genoa, Italy, made a comprehensive review covering all aspects of the surgical approach to bowel endometriosis, published their results in "Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology". Bowel endometriosis is the…
Key Points Lay SummaryColorectal Deep Endometriosis Resection and Potential Complications
A severe clinical form of endometriosis, deeply infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is characterized by more aggressive endometriotic lesions commonly involving deeper pelvic or gastrointestinal organs. It causes significant quality of life impairment and morbidity and is increasingly associated with infertility. When…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe impact of laser vaporization on reproductive outcomes in women with endometrioma
Despite extensive research, the optimal method for the management of endometriosis still remains unclear. Excisional surgery is claimed with a more favorable outcome than drainage and ablation regarding the recurrence of disease and symptoms. On the other hand, cyst vaporization…
Key Points Lay SummaryBowel surgery for endometriosis
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disorder. The disease harbors various complications. Deep endometriosis involving the bowel is only one aspect of the condition that has variable phenotypic presentations and pathologic subtypes. Knowledge of the short- and long-term risks of the surgical…
Key Points Lay SummaryIs there a commonality between endometriosis and systemic lupus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect many organs including the skin, joints, the central nervous system, and the kidneys. Women of childbearing age and certain racial groups are at increased risk to develop the condition.…
Key Points Lay SummaryHormone Therapy Before Endometriosis Surgery
Hormonal therapy can be effective for endometriosis, although laparoscopic surgery is required for the frequent drug-resistant symptoms. Laparoscopic surgery can markedly improve endometriosis-associated pain. The administration of GnRH agonist prior to endometriosis laparoscopic surgery may be beneficial to improve surgical…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe impact of obesity on safety and feasibility of laparoscopic endometriosis surgery
The quality of life in the women affected by endometriosis depends on the symptoms and signs of endometriosis such as dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility. The most common locations of endometriosis are ovary, ovarian fossa, uterosacral ligament, and…
Key Points Lay SummaryAnogenital distance and endometriosis
Endometriosis may be associated with exposure of the embryo to chemicals called ‘endocrine disruptors’. Exposure to endocrine disruptors can be estimated by measuring the anogenital distance (i.e. the distance between the clitoris and the anus), using a centimeter ruler with…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis surgery and future pregnancy complications
Endometriosis is one of the known diseases for infertility in the reproductive period of women. Several studies revealed that endometriosis itself maybe the reason for some unfavorable obstetric outcomes. Localization, the type of endometriotic lesions, and the stage of endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryRisk Factors Associated with Ureteral Endometriosis
Patients with severe endometriosis, uterosacral ligament deep involvement with endometriosis lesions of 3 cm in diameter or more, and the presence of previous endometriosis surgery have a significantly higher risk of having ureteral endometriosis. This is according to a study…
Key Points Lay SummaryImproved fusion imaging for the detection of Endometriosis
This paper studied a new fusion method for magnetic resonance (MR) and ultrasound (US) imaging for the appropriate diagnosis of endometriosis. The diagnosis of endometriosis in patients with a chronic pelvic disease is delayed, due to the disease, patient, and physician-led…
Key Points Lay SummaryHysterolaparoscopy Plus Assisted Reproduction Improves Fertility in Women with Endometriosis
Hysteroscopy and laparoscopic surgery is an effective and reliable therapeutic procedure, confirmed a study published in the "Journal of Clinical Medicine". The approach is even more effective when combined with assisted reproductive techniques such as artificial insemination and in vitro…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow should MRI images be obtained for optimal endometriosis detection?
It is well known that the diagnosis of endometriosis for some patients with the chronic pelvic disease is delayed, often for years, due to the disease, patient, and physician-led factors. An area of active study is how ordering physicians can…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgical approach to rectovaginal endometriosis.
Recto-vaginal endometriosis incidence is estimated at 3.8%-37% among women with endometriosis and when it exists it's a part of deeply infiltrated endometriosis, thus advance stage endometriosis. Raimondo et al. from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University of…
Key Points Lay SummaryImaging of gastrointestinal endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disease characterized by the ectopic implantation of endometrial tissue to surrounding pelvic and extra-pelvic structures. One frequent site of involvement is the gastrointestinal(GI) tract, which occurs especially among women with deep infiltrating endometriosis. Most cases of GI-involving…
Key Points Lay SummaryCan Controlled Trials Help Surgeons Decide on Best Way to Treat Endometriosis-Associated Pain?
It may not be realistic to base the decision on the best way to surgically treat pain in a woman with endometriosis on the results of surgical randomized controlled trials. This is according to a study by researchers at the…
Key Points Lay SummaryAbdominal wall endometriosis: Who is at risk and what causes it?
Endometriosis is a condition that can cause anatomic, hormonal, and inflammatory disturbances that may ultimately result in decreased fertility or infertility. It is a disease process that is defined as ectopic endometrial-like tissue implanting itself to various pelvic and extra…
Key Points Lay SummaryCurrent Status of Transvaginal Ultrasound Accuracy in the Diagnosis of Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis
Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) is an imaging tool that is irreplaceable for the diagnosis of multiple gynecologic conditions such as ovarian torsion, ectopic pregnancy, and uterine leiomyomas. TVUS is increasingly being used in the diagnosis of endometriosis as it can assess…
Key Points Lay SummaryPreoperative serum CA 125 levels predict the severity of adhesions in endometriosis
Lee Y. et al., a group of researchers from Korea evaluated the correlation between preoperative serum markers and pelvic adhesions in endometriosis patients and explored the markers’ clinical value for outcome prediction. They have recently published their study in the…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhich treatment option improves fertility the most?
Endometriosis is a condition that causes anatomic, hormonal, and inflammatory disturbances that may ultimately result in decreased fertility or infertility. It is estimated that 30-50% of women with endometriosis suffer from infertility. Thus, the role of surgical, medical, or expectant…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis Severity and Complication Risks Following Laparoscopic Surgery
In a research article published in the journal Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts suggested that the severity of endometriosis could not be a predictor of the risk of post-operative complications. In…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhat we should know in managing infertility related to endometriosis?
Dr. Llarena and associates made a comprehensive review of the causes of infertility in endometriosis and adverse effects of surgical procedures in Clinical Medicine Insights: Reproductive Health. Infertility is an important issue in endometriosis patients and about 30-50 % face infertility.…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhat do Women with Endometriosis Think About the Medical Profession?
Failure of surgical treatment, use of the emergency room, and access to complementary healthcare are factors associated with a negative perception of the medical profession in women with endometriosis. This is according to a study conducted by researchers in British…
Key Points Lay SummaryDoes the Severity of Endometriosis Increase the Risk of Complications Following Surgery?
The severity of endometriosis cannot predict the risk of complications after laparoscopy. Instead, the complexity of the surgical procedure itself may increase the risk of complications. This is according to a study published in the journal "Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica".…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgery and the endometriosis associated-pain: A systematic review
The surgical approach for pelvic pain-related to endometriosis depends on the stage and the type of the endometriotic lesion and ranging from ablation and the excision of the lesions to radical surgery as hysterectomy with removal of ovaries and presacral…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis features vs Patient age
Endometriosis, a common gynecological disease, has significant negative impacts on patients’ daily life. Especially in younger women who have yet to achieve pregnancy, effective management should consider the disease progression. Though it is still under debate, some people suggest that…
Key Points Lay SummaryCloverleaf Sign: A new MRI sign for diagnosing DIE
Magnetic resonance imaging provides accurate information for the staging of deeply infiltrating endometriosis, especially when the patient is virgin, obese or has limited transvaginal examinations due to pelvic pain. In this recently published study in Investive Radiology, Harma et al.…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to predict complications for endometriosis surgery?
In a new study co-led by scientists at Sorbonne University, a nomogram is built to better inform patients about the risk of deep endometriosis surgery without bowel involvement. The findings have been published in the European Journal of Obstetrics &…
Key Points Lay SummaryImpact of hemostatic techniques used in endometrioma surgery on ovarian function
This publication reports on an ongoing clinical trial that aims to assess whether the hemostatic techniques (methods to stop bleeding) used in ovarian endometrioma surgery have damaging effects on ovarian function. The clinical trial stemmed from a multitude of inconclusive…
Key Points Lay SummaryFusion US/MR imaging in the evaluation of deep infiltrating endometriosis
Scioscia M. et al., from Italy presented a case of a large deep infiltrating nodule of the uterosacral ligament and discussed the importance of a relatively new technique, fusion US/MR imaging in their article. The article containing a video of…
Key Points Lay SummaryA position statement of diagnosing and treating endometriosis for gynecologists.
Endometriosis Treatment Italian Group recently declared 10 "valuable" conducts to evaluate endometriotic patients and published them in Hum. Reprod. Open. This society consists of 16 university departments and training center with expert clinicians on endometriosis from Italy. After arising the idea of…
Key Points Lay SummaryA study about adnexial torsion doubts in patients with endometriosis.
Endometrioma is the presence of endometriosis cysts in the ovary, and is one of the most common forms of endometriosis, with unknown pathophysiology. Adnexal torsion results in twisting ovarian tissues resulting in a decreased blood flow. The causes for adnexal torsion due…
Key Points Lay SummaryPatients with Pelvic Pain Most Likely to Benefit from Endometriosis Surgery
Women who experience higher levels of pain are more likely to show improvement in their quality of life (QoL) following endometriosis surgery, according to a study published in The Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. Chronic pelvic pain seems to be…
Key Points Lay SummaryENDORECT scoring system to identify patients at risk for rectosigmoid endometriosis
Patients who suffer from endometriosis may benefit from a preoperative score that predicts rectosigmoid involvement. A recent paper published by Huchon et al. at Poissy Saint-Germain en Laye, France, recruited 119 women who underwent laparoscopy for endometriosis between 2011 and…
Key Points Lay SummaryDoes Endometriosis Reduce Ovarian Reserve?
Markers of ovarian reserve are worse in infertile women with endometriosis compared to women who cannot conceive due to male factor infertility regardless of whether or not they have had ovarian surgery. This finding is important because it suggests that…
Key Points Lay SummaryReducing the Risk of Recurrence After Endometriosis Surgery
The use of compounds called NF-κB inhibitors and β-blockers before and after endometriosis surgery may reduce the risk of the disease recurring, according to a study conducted in a mouse model. According to the study published in the journal Reproductive…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe postoperative functional outcomes of deep infiltrating endometriosis
Rectosigmoid endometriosis is defined as the infiltration of the bowel wall with the endometrial-like glands and stroma, reaching at least the muscular layer. The most commonly involved sites are the rectum and sigmoid colon. For the management of deep infiltrating…
Key Points Lay SummaryMRI-based "ENZIAN" scoring system and intra-operative endometriosis findings
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease whereby endometrial-like glands grow and invade the extra-uterine structures. Endometriosis may affect various parts of the body, including the peritoneum, ovaries, or retroperitoneum. Recently, non-invasive methods for detecting these lesions have included trans-vaginal ultrasound…
Key Points Lay SummaryOvarian stimulation regimes: Concerns on progression or recurrence of endometriosis
Somigliana et al., from the University of Milan, Italy, performed a literature review to predict the endometriosis-enhancing effect of ART regimes on infertile women and reported their results in Reproductive Biomedicine Online. Their points of interest were increasing dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, non-menstrual pain and…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis involving the superficial peritoneum in Adolescents: Surgical Management
Endometriosis is a chronic disease whereby endometrial glands and stroma grow and survive outside of the uterus. In some cases, endometriosis may become symptomatic and cause debilitating, chronic pelvic pain. Among pelvic organ and other surfaces that endometriosis can involve…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe duration of impairment of ovarian reserve after laparoscopic surgery
Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition characterized by ectopic endometrial tissue that grows and invades extra-uterine tissues. It is a significant contributor to chronic pelvic pain in women of reproductive age. Endometriosis involving the ovaries and causing a cystic growth…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhich comes first in endometriosis management: In vitro fertilization or surgery?
Endometriosis is defined as the localization of endometrial glandular and stromal tissue outside the uterine cavity. The prevalence is found to be 7%–10%, but among infertile women, it increases up to 50%. Early diagnosis and personalized management are important to…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe association between the development of endometriosis and dietary habits
Endometriosis is a chronic disease defined as the localization of endometrial glandular and stromal tissue outside the uterine cavity. The prevalence is found to be approximately 10% in the general population. Endometriosis is associated with infertility, pelvic pain, and increased…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis and female pelvic pain in all aspects
Endometriosis is defined as the localization of endometrial glandular and stromal tissue outside the uterine cavity. The prevalence of the disease ranges between 6-10% in reproductive-aged women. However, endometriosis is more frequently encountered in women with chronic pelvic pain and…
Key Points Lay SummaryNew scientific evidence supporting robotic surgical approach to ureteric endometriosis
Surgical treatment of ureteral endometriosis aims to relieve urinary obstruction besides preserving renal functions. In accomplishing these, the best method of surgical approach is still unclear. Andrea Giannini and her colleagues from the University of Pisa, Italy conducted a retrospective…
Key Points Lay SummaryConservative Surgery May Be Sufficient to Halt the Development of Deep Endometriosis
Deep endometriosis develops as a result of collective cell migration and nerve recruitment from surrounding organs, suggests a study published in the scientific journal Fertility and Sterility. Collective cell migration is the biological process whereby a group of cells moves…
Key Points Lay SummaryLaparoscopic mesenteric vascular and nerve sparing surgery as a tool for DIE resection
Endometriosis can be characterized by a wide range of clinical aggressiveness based upon the location, character, and growth of ectopic endometrial implants. As one of the most aggressive forms of endometriosis, deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is known to involve the…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to predict natural conception in women underwent endometriosis surgery?
Endometriosis is defined as the localization of endometrial glandular and stromal cells outside the uterine cavity. The most common symptoms are dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility. The prevalence of endometriosis increases in the infertile population. Thus, the important…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe diagnosis and management of endometriosis in Korea
The Korean Society of Endometriosis has scrutinized the present published literature of endometriosis in the domestic and international platform to provide new guidelines and the clinical management of the disease. The study was recently published in the journal "Obstetrics and Gynecology…
Key Points Lay SummaryCan MRI be used to detect anterior pelvic endometriotic lesions?
Deep infiltrating endometriosis is the most severe manifestation of endometriosis. It is defined as the infiltration of ectopic endometrial tissue under the peritoneum, pelvic structures, and the organ walls such as the uterosacral ligaments, colon, vagina, bladder, ureter, rectovaginal septum,…
Key Points Lay SummaryParametrial endometriosis: A harder form of endometriosis
Deep infiltrating endometriosis is the most severe manifestation of endometriosis, affecting 20% of all patients with endometriosis. It is defined as the infiltration of ectopic endometrial tissue under the peritoneum, pelvic structures, and the organ walls such as the uterosacral…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis involvement of the pouch of Douglas: TVUS vs pelvic exam
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) can lead to a partial or complete obliteration of the pouch of Douglas (POD). POD involvement has been associated with dyschezia, deep dyspareunia, and increased infertility rates. Assessing the extent of endometriosis involvement of the cul-de-sac allows…
Key Points Lay SummaryWill I Have Complications After Endometriosis Surgery?
The rate of complications after surgery to treat deep infiltrating endometriosis is low, confirmed a study by researchers in Germany. It is important to know whether major or minor complications following surgery are likely to develop and what the outcome…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to preserve fertility in women with “ovarian endometriosis”?
Although there are many treatment modalities in endometriosis, optimal treatment has not been developed yet. The aim of the treatment is to reduce pain, to preserve and improve fertility and to delay recurrence. Ovarian ischemic and perfusion damage during endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis Surgery Reduces Pain and Improves Quality of Life
Endometriosis surgery improves pelvic and sexual pain according to a study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. This improvement stays stable over time meaning that the benefits of surgery last for years. In order to assess the effect…
Key Points Lay SummaryTransvaginal ultrasound for "rectosigmoid endometriosis" diagnosis: Is bowel preparation necessary?
Rectosigmoid endometriosis is a severe form of deep endometriosis. Women having rectosigmoid endometriosis present with pain and several intestinal complains such as constipation, diarrhea, intestinal cramping, abdominal bloating, feeling of incomplete evacuation, the passage of mucus and rectal bleeding during…
Key Points Lay SummaryReduced pain and increased fertiliy rates after surgery for colorectal endometriosis
This prospective cohort study which recently published in AOGS by Hudelist et al. from Oslo University, Norway is about their one hundred thirty-four laparoscopic operations of DIE cases performed between 2011 and 2016, in a tertiary center in Oslo. The…
Key Points Lay SummaryIVF Is the Best Option to Become Pregnant for Women with Severe Endometriosis, or Is It Not?
Treating rectal endometriosis with surgery seems to increase the chance of a woman conceiving, with most pregnancies occurring naturally. This is according to a study published in the medical journal Human Reproduction. The optimal treatment for women with severe endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometrioma and endometriosis
Exacoustos C. et al. published an article titled “The isolated ovarian endometrioma: a history between myth and reality” in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology in 2018. They aimed to examine the association between ovarian endometriomas detectable at the transvaginal ultrasound…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to evaluate ureteral endometriosis : A review of the literature
In this recently published review of the literature, Barra et al. from Genova, Italy intend to provide a useful tool to guide physicians in the management of deep infiltrating endometriosis. Authors elected 67 abstracts from Pubmed and Medline in accordance with PRISMA…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow are endometriosis patients managed clinically?
This review paper by Falcone and Flyckt, entitled “Clinical Management of Endometriosis” published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology aims to summarize the current strategies for treating endometriosis patients with pain, pelvic dysfunction, and subfertility related to their disease. There are many…
Key Points Lay SummaryPrior endometriosis surgery and the risk of pregnancy complications
Koninckx et al. discussed the association of pregnancy complications with endometriosis and endometriosis surgery in their recently published paper in the journal Fertility and Sterility. They especially mentioned about the retrospective study of Nirgianakis et al. published in the same…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to improve the current ASRM classification of endometriosis?
In this article which recently published in Best Practice&Research Clinical Obst&Gyn. from the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, Andres et al. penned a review of the classification of endometriosis in chronological order, and discussed the limitations of existing classification systems to…
Key Points Lay SummaryCan we predict the complexity of laparoscopic surgery by ultrasound?
This is a multicentric, retrospective cohort study recently published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology by Tompsett et al. in which the results of the transvaginal ultrasonographic examinations (TVS) are compared to the results of the laparoscopic operations performed…
Key Points Lay SummaryA Doctor's Guide to Making Endometriosis Less Scary
Canis, Bourdel, and Chauvet, doctors from CHU Estaing, recently published an article titled “Endometriosis: frightening the patients is not an acceptable alternative to inadequate surgical management and or pathophysiology ignorance” in Fertility and Sterility. Their paper delineated proper health practices…
Key Points Lay SummaryIs there a definitive guideline for the surgical management of endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that is defined by the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue outside of the uterus. Unfortunately, endometriosis continues to be a leading cause of chronic pelvic pain in women of reproductive age. This article titled,…
Key Points Lay SummaryOral Contraceptives and Low-Cost Progestins to Reduce Endometriosis-Associated Pain
Most women with endometriosis-associated pain did not feel the need to use expensive progestin or undergo surgery. Instead, they were satisfied with a low-cost progestin to treat their symptoms. This is according to a study published in the journal Fertility…
Key Points Lay SummaryWhat is being done to help surgeons detect endometriosis during laparoscopy
The gold standard for the diagnosis of endometriosis is diagnostic laparoscopy and histologic confirmation. During laparoscopy, visualization of as many lesions as possible may hold better long-term clinical outcomes. Peritoneal endometriosis is difficult to diagnose intraoperatively due to the heterogeneity…
Key Points Lay SummaryStenoses in the colorectal anastomose sites after DIE surgery
Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is a particular form of endometriosis that penetrates at least 5 mm under the peritoneal surface. DIE is primarily located in the rectosigmoid junction and the rectum with an incidence of 70% and 90%, respectively. The…
Key Points Lay SummaryA Way to Better Diagnose Colorectal Endometriosis
Combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with computed tomography-based virtual colonoscopy (CTC) can make the assessment of colorectal endometriosis more accurate. This is important because it can help doctors plan the surgery better and inform their patients. In order to evaluate…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis surgery and preservation of fertility, what surgeons should know
Endometriosis can involve most of the pelvic organs including the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes and thus has the potential to cause infertility. This article titled, “Endometriosis surgery and preservation of fertility, what surgeons should know” written by H. Roman…
Key Points Lay SummaryPicture This: 8K UHD Television System for Endometriosis Surgery
This case report by Aoki et al. was published in the journal "Videosurgery and Other Miniinvasive Techniques" under the title “Effect of an 8K ultra-high-definition television system in a case of laparoscopic gynecologic surgery.” In this publication, the authors delineated…
Key Points Lay SummaryRecurrence of Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis
There are mainly three types of endometriotic lesions. These are ovarian endometriosis, superficial peritoneal endometriosis, and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). The latter is often described as a lesion with greater than 5 mm invasion of the peritoneal surface. DIE lesions…
Key Points Lay SummaryA How-To Guide for Endometriosis Surgery
The European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE), ESHRE, and the World Endometriosis Society (WES) recently published a document titled “Recommendations for the surgical treatment of endometriosis—part 1: ovarian endometriomas.” This publication provides surgeons with recommendations for the technical aspects of…
Key Points Lay SummaryCollaboration Between the Surgical and Medical Experts of Endometriosis Needed
The authors of this perspective article aim to initiate a dialogue regarding the current evidence regarding the surgical and medical treatment of endometriosis. In their view, the quality of data regarding the outcomes of surgery for endometriosis is lacking and…
Key Points Lay SummaryEctopic Pregnancy Risk Factors
Jacob, Kalder, and Kostev recently published an article titled “Risk factors for ectopic pregnancy in Germany: a retrospective study of 100,197 patients” in German Medical Science. The retrospective German study hoped to elucidate the risk factors for ectopic pregnancies. The…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe Past, Present, and Future of Diagnosing Endometriosis
This review titled “Endometriosis: Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Clinical Management” published in Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports examines the distribution and factors associated with endometriosis. The analysis by Parasar, Ozcan, and Terry also delineates potential biomarkers and risk factors that could…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe Challenging Path to Diagnosis
Kallia O. Wright, a professor at Illinois College, recently published her essay titled “You have Endometriosis”: Making Menstruation Related Pain Legitimate in a Biomedical World” in Health Communication. This essay delineates the author’s experience with endometriosis. The author started experiencing…
Key Points Lay SummaryBenign Gynecological Tumors in Women with Endometriosis
Matalliotaki et al. recently published a paper titled “Coexistence of benign gynecological tumors with endometriosis in a group of 1,000 women” in Oncology Letters. The study had two main objectives. The first goal was to understand the link between endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryLong-term Use of Dienogest can Prevent Recurrence of Endometriomas
Chandra et al. recently published a paper titled “Clinical experience of the long-term use of dienogest after surgery for ovarian endometriomas” in Obstetrics and Gynecology Science. The publication explored the benefits and repercussions associated with long-term use of dienogest, a…
Key Points Lay SummaryWomen with Endometriosis Should Not Worry About Ovarian Cancer
Kvaskoff, Horne and Missmer recently published an article in The Lancet titled “Informing women with endometriosis about ovarian cancer risk.” This article was written to address the growing concern surrounding the information that women suffering from endometriosis are at increased…
Key Points Lay SummaryDiagnostic and treatment guidelines for gastrointestinal and genitourinary endometriosis.
Endometriosis may affect the pelvic reproductive system, but it can also be found in non-reproductive organs such as the gastrointestinal and urinary tract. The article outlined below discusses the diagnosis and management of genitourinary and gastrointestinal endometriosis. Gastrointestinal endometriosis: The…
Key Points Lay SummaryAtypical Sites of Deeply Infiltrative Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity and is characterizes by fibrosis and inflammatory reaction. The pelvic cavity is the most common location for endometriotic lesions, which involves the retro-cervical space, ovaries, vagina, rectosigmoid colon, bladder…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to Minimize the Costs Associated with Endometriosis Care
Paolo Vercellini, Maria Pina Frattaruolo and Laura Buggio, from Milan, Italy, recently published an editorial titled “Toward minimally disruptive management of symptomatic endometriosis: reducing low-value care and the burden of treatment” in Expert Review of Pharmacoeconomics & Outcomes Research. The…
Key Points Lay SummaryDeep endometriosis and pregnancy
Several previous studies have investigated whether endometriosis can affect the normal development of pregnancy, although the results have been controversial. The aim of this review article by Leone Roberti Maggiore et al. is to provide an updated overview of health…
Key Points Lay SummaryLaparoscopic Bowel Resection Can Be Beneficial Rectosigmoid Endometriosis
Riiskjær et al. recently published a paper titled “Pelvic Pain and Quality of Life Before and After Laparoscopic Bowel Resection for Rectosigmoid Endometriosis: A Prospective, Observational Study” in Diseases of the Colon & Rectum. This paper focuses on the effects…
Key Points Lay SummaryShould Women with Endometriosis have IVF Treatment to Conceive Following Laparoscopic Surgery?
Women affected by endometriosis-associated infertility who are younger than 35, and have a good ovarian reserve and a partner with normal semen parameters can benefit from a so-called integrated approach for the management of their infertility, according to a study published…
Key Points Lay SummaryCentralization of Pelvic Endometriosis Care
Dr. Patrick Chien, the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of BJOG, recently wrote an article titled “Pelvic endometriosis: will centralization of services improve patient care?” In this article, Dr. Chien formulated an opinion on the centralization of pelvic endometriosis care based on the…
Key Points Lay SummaryBowel Function not Affected by Type of Surgery in Deep Rectal Endometriosis, Clinical Trial Shows
Conservative surgery for the management of deep rectal endometriosis does not seem to improve the function of the digestive and urinary system compared to more radical surgery according to a new study by French researchers published in the scientific journal Human…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow Could Doctors Reduce Risk of Complications Following Rectal Endometriosis Surgery?
Introducing a temporary opening, known as a stoma, in the abdomen of patients that are operated for rectal endometriosis to collect waste products could reduce the risk of complications such as anastomotic leakage. This is according to a study by…
Key Points Lay SummaryHow to identify an Expert Centers for Colorectal Endometriosis Surgery
It is of paramount importance to determine set criteria to define expert centers for colorectal endometriosis surgery, according to a research article published in the scientific journal Surgical Endoscopy. As the hospital and surgeon case volume has a significant impact…
Key Points Lay SummarySurgical treatment is an excellent option for women with endometriosis and infertility.
Women with endometriosis most often have difficulty becoming pregnant and thus require a combination of endometriosis treatment and infertility techniques to achieve pregnancy. Depending on the severity of endometriotic symptoms, women may or may not need surgical excision of endometriosis…
Key Points Lay SummaryEFA Medical Conference 2017: "Prophylactic Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction" Presentation by Dr. Oren Lerman
Dr. Oren Lerman, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, described the reconstructive options of a woman who has been or is going to go through a mastectomy (removal of breast tissues) whether it…
Key Points Lay SummaryEFA Medical Conference 2017: "Endometriosis: hormonal or surgical? My reality!" Presentation by Dr. Harry Reich
Dr. Harry Reich, the Former Director of Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery at Columbia University Department of OBGYN, was the last speaker in the Mission and History part of the EFA 2017 Medical Conference. His presentation was titled “Endometriosis: hormonal or surgical?…
Key Points Lay SummaryEFA Medical Conference 2017: Welcome Presentation by Dr. Tamer Seckin
The first part of the Endometriosis Foundation of America’s 2017 Medical Conference delved into the mission and history of the Endometriosis Foundation of America. The first presenter was Dr. Tamer Seckin, a renowned surgeon, and gynecologist who is also the…
Key Points Lay SummaryIs operation the best option for infertile patients with digestive endometriosis?
A severe form of endometriosis affecting 8-12% of women with deep endometriosis is bowel endometriosis. Bowel involvement with associated infertility is a serious challenge for gynecologists who must choose between two main therapeutic options: surgery or medically assisted procreation (e.g.…
Key Points Lay SummarySwimming Against the Stream: Is Surgery Worthwhile in Women with Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis and Pregnancy Intention?
Management of Deeply Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE) is further complicated by the implications of affected patients who plan to become or are pregnant. Optimal management in this situation is not standardized due to a lack of randomized trials comparing primary surgery…
Key Points Lay SummaryEndometriosis linked with increased risk of cancer and frequency of future surgical procedures
The purpose of this data research was to determine how women with endometriosis might be predisposed to other medical conditions later on in their lives. In order to determine if endometriosis affected health outcomes, a group of Scottish researchers collected…
Key Points Lay SummaryCohort study on outcomes of laparoscopic endometriosis surgery
Laparoscopic surgery followed by histological confirmation is considered a standard for diagnosis, staging, and treatment of endometriosis. Radical and conservative surgical approaches are often required for the removal of endometriotic lesions in the case of vaginal or rectal wall deep…
Key Points Lay SummaryUpdates in the Field of Endometriosis: Surgery
Surgery is one of the treatment options offered for individuals with endometriosis. With that in mind, there are a variety of surgical procedures that can be offered to an individual with endometriosis. In the chapter titled “Surgery and Endometriosis,” Zanelotti…
Key Points Lay SummaryUpdates in the Field of Endometriosis: Fertility
Infertility can be a significant problem for many women who are suffering from endometriosis. In their chapter titled “Endometriosis and Fertility,” Evans and Decherney discuss the role of endometriosis in infertility and examine the usefulness of various fertility treatments. The…
Key Points Lay SummaryUpdates in the Field of Endometriosis: Fertility Preservation
“Endometriosis and Fertility” is a chapter dedicated to examining the role of endometriosis and endometriomas in decreasing fertility. In other words, the authors of this chapter discuss the relationship between endometriomas, surgeries, and infertility. Barnett, Banks and Decherney also deliberate…
Key Points Lay SummaryUpdates in the Field of Endometriosis
A lot of progress has been made thus far in the field of endometriosis. Research has discovered various genetic and epigenetic components involved in endometriosis. There has also been a progression in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease since…
Key Points Lay SummaryBest Time for IVF Between 7 and 25 Months Post Surgery Study Suggests
The more severe endometriosis is, the lower the success rate of IVF, according to a new study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. However, the presence of endometriosis as such does not seem to affect the outcome of…
Key Points Lay SummaryDienogest for Endometriosis
Laganà et al. recently published an article in Expert Opinion on Drug Metabolism & Toxicology titled “Clinical dynamics of Dienogest for the treatment of endometriosis: from bench to bedside.” This article explored the benefits of using Dienogest, a progestin, to…
Key Points Lay SummaryThe Benefits of Primary Surgery
Ahmad, Hussin, and Ahmad recently conducted a cohort study, and they published the results within an article titled “An evaluation of the quality of life in women with endometriosis who underwent primary surgery: a 6-month follow-up in Sabah Women &…
Key Points Lay SummaryICSI Outcomes for Laparoscopic Intervention of Endometriosis
Women with endometriosis can have trouble conceiving and often turn to fertility treatments for help. Guler et al. recently published a paper in Systems Biology in Reproductive Medicine titled “The Impact of laparoscopic surgery of peritoneal endometriosis and endometrioma on…
Key Points Lay SummaryCryoablation to Treat Abdominal Wall Endometriosis
Endometriosis of the abdominal wall (AWE) is often painful and requires hormone therapy or surgery for clinical management. Thus, non-invasive treatment options to help reduce pain and the progression of these lesions will help patients who suffer from this disease.…
Key Points Lay SummaryRobotic Assisted Laparoscopy Not Better Than Standard Laparoscopy
Robotic-assisted laparoscopy (RAL) does not seem to offer any benefits over standard laparoscopy, according to a study published in the scientific journal Reproductive Biomedicine Online. According to the authors of the study more research is needed to investigate the role…
Key Points Lay SummaryDeep Infiltrating Endometriosis, Surgery and Fertility
Carneiro, Costa, and Ávila recently published an article in a scientific journal named Reproduction, titled “To operate or not to operate on women with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) before in vitro fertilization (IVF),” that explored the relationship between DIE and infertility.…
Key Points Lay SummaryWomen with Endometriosis Undergoing Surgery Often Require Further Treatment
Recurrence of endometriosis is common even in women who underwent surgery, a new study confirmed. This suggests that women with endometriosis should be closely followed up even after treatment with surgery. For the study published online in the Journal of…
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