Histopathologic features of endometriotic rectal nodules and the implications for management by rectal nodule excision

Abstract

Using data from 27 women with deep rectal endometriosis, managed by segmental resection, we observed that in 89% of cases active glandular endometrial foci were responsible for a deeper infiltration of rectal layers than that of fibrosis and smooth fibers by 5 mm on average. These data might be useful for surgeons performing rectal nodule excision, suggesting the benefits of administrating postoperative medical treatment to reduce the risk of rectal recurrences caused by remaining active endometriotic foci.