Natural Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery Research Articles

Clinical efficacy and safety of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery for benign adnexal disease: a prospective trial

BackgroundThere is a scarcity of prospective clinical research evidence regarding the utilization of transvaginal natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) as a treatment option for ovarian cysts. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of employing vNOTES for the management of ovarian cysts.MethodsOur study included women between the ages of 18 and 70 who intended to undergo surgical intervention for benign lesions. Stratified blocked randomization was employed to allocate participants into groups. The main objective was to assess whether the assigned group adhered to the recommended surgical technique for ovarian cystectomy or adnexectomy, without any deviation to alternative surgical methods.ResultsA total of 196 patients were included in the study, with all surgeries in each group being conducted according to the assigned procedures. Among them, the ovarian cystectomy layer included 58 cases in the vNOTES group and 58 cases in the conventional laparoscopy (CL) groups. The adnexectomy layer included 40 cases in the vNOTES group and 40 cases in the CL group. Utilizing a sensitivity analysis, the two-sided 95% lower confidence limit was determined to be 5.5% for the disparity in proportions between the vNOTES groups and CL groups. These lower limits fell below the predetermined non-inferiority margin of 10%.ConclusionsThe study findings demonstrate that vNOTES was not inferior to CL in terms of adnexectomy or ovarian cystectomy. vNOTES can be considered a more minimally invasive surgical approach, as it results in reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and absence of visible incisions. Overall, vNOTES proves to be a safe, feasible, and less invasive treatment option.Trial registrationThis study retrospectively registered with the China Clinical Trial Registry with the registration number ChiCTR2100052223(22-10-2021).

Vaginal assisted NOTES hysterectomy in The Netherlands; A prospective cohort study

ObjectivesVaginal assisted Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) combines the benefits of vaginal and endoscopic surgery. This study presents the results of the first vaginal assisted NOTES hysterectomies (VANH) in The Netherlands. Study designA prospective cohort study was performed in two non-academic teaching hospitals in The Netherlands. Data was collected from patients who underwent a VANH for benign indications between August 2019 and April 2023. Baseline characteristics and data of intra- and postoperative surgical outcomes were recorded and analysed. The VANHs were performed by four experienced vaginal and endoscopic gynaecological surgeons. ResultsA total of 200 patients underwent a VANH. Indications were dysfunctional menstrual bleeding (61 %; n = 122), abnormal cervical cytology (15.5 %; n = 31), abdominal pain (11.5 %; n = 23), post ablation/sterilization pain syndrome (3.5 %; n = 7), uterine fibroids (5.0 %; n = 10), atypical endometrial hyperplasia (2.5 %; n = 5) and Lynch or BRCA gene mutation carriers (1.0 %, n = 2). The mean surgical time was 61.4 min ( ± 22.8 min) with a mean blood loss of 88 mL ( ± 89 mL) and a mean uterine weight of 150 g ( ± 112 g). In 2.0 % (n = 4) of the cases a conversion was necessary. Same day discharge (SDD) was feasible in 80.2 % (n = 105) of the patients planned in day-care. In 2.0 % (n = 4) an intra-operative complication and in 9.0 % (n = 18) a post-operative complication occurred. ConclusionThis study shows vNOTES to be a safe and feasible surgical technique and can be safely implemented with appropriate patient selection and skilled surgeons. It highlights the importance of surgeon awareness of the challenges inherent in the initial stages of the implementation of a new surgical technique when performing their first vNOTES procedures. Additional randomized clinical trials are needed to show superiority of vNOTES compared to traditional surgery.

Endoscopic and Robotic Assisted Transvaginal Hysterectomy: A Feasibility Study

Purpose: To perform a feasibility study of the novel approach “transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery” (vNOTES) with Da-Vinci robotic assistance. The primary objective of the study is to describe best surgical practices using a case series of robotic-assisted vNOTES in select patients. Methods: An institutional review board approved prospective single-arm, surgical intervention trial was performed. Outcomes measured included operative time, operative complications, estimated blood loss, hemoglobin changes, postoperative pain scores, and need for conversion to traditional robotic or laparoscopic hysterectomy via the abdominal approach. Patients who were referred to the gynecology oncology clinic to undergo hysterectomy for benign indications and met the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria were consented. Patients were included if they had benign causes of abnormal uterine bleeding or pelvic pain, endometrial hyperplasia, cervical dysplasia, need for risk-reducing surgery for hereditary cancer syndromes or need for transgender-affirming surgery. Patients were excluded if they had prior rectal surgery, evidence of fixed uterus, posterior cul-de-sac obliteration and/or adhesions based on physical exam and/or imaging, evidence of narrowed vagina on physical exam, virginity, current pregnancy or history of advanced pelvic organ prolapse. Furthermore, obesity, nulliparity, or no history of spontaneous vaginal delivery are characteristics that may be deemed as risk factors for failure of a transvaginal approach and clinical judgment was used to determine eligibility for study inclusion. Patients deemed eligible were then enrolled for robotic-assisted transvaginal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy with or without oophorectomy. In the pilot case, the surgery began as a traditional vaginal hysterectomy starting with a posterior colpotomy followed by transection and ligation of the bilateral uterosacral ligaments. Identification of the vesicouterine peritoneal reflection anteriorly was difficult and the GelPoint V-Path was placed only through the posterior colpotomy. The Da Vinci robot was docked and a 0-degree Da Vinci camera, monopolar scissors, Vessel Sealer and AirSeal assist port were placed through the 9.5 cm GelPoint transvaginal platform in a diamond configuration. The Vessel Sealer was used to transect across the uterine arteries. Due to poor visualization, conversion to the traditional abdominal robotic approach was required and the remainder of the surgery was completed in the usual fashion. In the subsequent two cases, a single laparoscopic port was placed abdominally to perform an initial survey of the pelvis. The abdomen was then deflated and the surgery was initiated in a fashion similar to the pilot case. Anterior and posterior colpotomy were successfully performed and the GelPoint platform was optimally placed. Vagina-pneumoperitoneum was obtained to 15 mmHg. In the second case, the 30-degree Da Vinci camera, the Vessel Sealer, ProGrasp Forceps, monopolar scissors, AirSeal assist port and a 9.5 cm GelPoint transvaginal platform were utilized. In the final case, three robotic arms were used rather than four (0-degree Da Vinci camera, the Vessel Sealer, ProGrasp Forceps) along with an AirSeal assist port through a 7 cm GelPoint transvaginal platform to improve ergonomics. The remainder of surgery was completed with robotic assistance with good visualization of the upper abdomen, pelvis and bilateral ureters. The vaginal cuff was closed by placing multiple figure-of-eight sutures similar to a traditional vaginal hysterectomy. Results: Two cases were successfully completed while the pilot case required conversion to the traditional robotic abdominal approach. This was due to difficulty in identifying the anterior vesicouterine peritoneal reflection. Intra-abdominal laparoscopic survey revealed anterior cul-de-sac adhesions with pathology-confirmed endometriosis. The most ergonomic set up was found to consist of three robotic arms (0-degree da Vinci camera, the Vessel sealer, ProGrasp Forceps) and an AirSeal assist port through a 7 cm GelPoint transvaginal platform in a diamond configuration. In the two successful cases, both patients had uncomplicated postoperative courses with pain scores of 2-3 on floor arrival and 0 at their two- and six- week post-op visits. Estimated blood loss of the second and third cases were 75 cc and 30 cc, respectively. The operative time of the third case significantly improved compared to the second case, from 195 minutes to 99 minutes. Conclusion: We demonstrated that robotic-assisted vNOTES is a feasible option in appropriately selected patients. As demonstrated by operative time changes, there exists a learning curve even when performed by experienced robotic surgeons. Compared with traditional vaginal hysterectomy, robotic surgery allows for improved visualization of and access to the adnexal structures and upper abdomen with improved dexterity in comparison to traditional laparoscopy instruments.

Comparison of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery versus conventional surgery for uterosacral ligament suspension in patients who had concomitant vaginal hysterectomy for subtotal uterine prolapse.

The study aimed to compare the short-term outcomes of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) for uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) versus nonendoscopic USLS in patients with subtotal uterine prolapse who had a concomitant vaginal hysterectomy. There were 51 patients who underwent vNOTES USLS, whereas the nonendoscopic conventional USLS group had 49 patients. The information about patient demographics, and perioperative data including the operative duration, blood loss, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and length of postoperative hospital stay were determined from the patients' files. Postoperative follow-up visits were scheduled at the first week and 1 month after surgery. The demographic variables including age, body mass index, menopausal status, and parity were comparable, and no significant differences were found. A total of 90.2% of the patients in the vNOTES group and 69.4% of the patients in the shull group were at menopause (p = .09). Operation time was significantly shorter in the shull group (p < .001), and the hospitalization period (p = .029) was significantly shorter in the vNOTES group. Ba, Bp, and D points and total vaginal length (TVL) were significantly behind the hymenal ring in patients who had vNOTES USLS procedure (p < .001). None of the patients who had intraoperative significant blood loss required transfusion. One patient in the vNOTES and two patients in the shull group had a postoperative cuff hematoma. vNOTES USLS has a good safety profile, higher percentage of adnexal surgeries with better improvement on POP-Q points Ba, Bp, D, and TVL compared with classic USLS in patients with subtotal uterine prolapse. Studies evaluating short- and long-term results of vNOTES versus conventional USLS are needed.

The Evolution of Transvaginal Robot-Assisted Surgery in Gynecology.

Laparoscopy has advanced over the last three decades with residency training programs focusing on trans-abdominal laparoscopic techniques whether conventional or robotic. Despite attempts over many years to adopt vaginal surgery as the preferred method of hysterectomy, traditional vaginal surgery has largely fallen out of favor. Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) has gained popularity with patients and promises to provide an attractive option, but the surgical skills of many gynecologists have limited its widespread adoption. We explore the use of robot-assisted vNOTES (RA-vNOTES), which offers improved ergonomics, visualization, and wristed instruments for more precise surgery. Robotic vNOTES, was originally performed in Taiwan by Dr. Chyi-Long Lee in 2014.1 Our center has used the robotic vaginal approach for hysterectomy, myomectomy, sacrocolpopexy, adnexal surgery, endometriosis excision, and more. We have also shown feasibility in performing surgery on patients with a completely obliterated posterior cul-de-sac, long been thought to be a contraindication for the transvaginal approach. Enhancements have been made to improve safety and efficiency, such as the use of indocyanine green to visualize the ureters. There are some limitations on instrument maneuverability and reach with the current da Vinci® Xi (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, California) platform. However, with over 300 cases logged in our center, these limitations may be overcome with the new da Vinci® SP (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, California). We are eager to share our experience and hope that more gynecologic surgeons will choose this innovative approach for the benefit of our patients.

Exploring the feasibility of indocyanine green fluorescence for intraoperative ureteral visualisation in robotic transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopy surgery during endometriosis resection.

To assess the feasibility of use of indocyanine green (ICG) in identifying and minimising urinary tract injury during surgical resection of endometriosis through robotic transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopy surgery (RvNOTES). We conducted a retrospective case series in two academic tertiary care hospitals. We examined 53 patients who underwent RvNOTES hysterectomy with planned endometriosis resection. The study involved 53 patients undergoing RvNOTES with ICG fluorescence for endometriosis resection. Mean patient age was 37.98±6.65years. Operative time averaged 181.32±53.94min, with estimated blood loss at 45.57±33.62mL. Postoperative stay averaged 0.23±0.47days. No ICG-related complications occurred. No complications occurred with ICG fluorescence in RvNOTES. It appears to be a safe option for ureteral localisation and preservation. ICG fluorescence is widely used in diverse medical specialities for identifying ureters during complex surgeries. Larger studies are needed to firmly establish its advantages in intraoperative ureteral visualisation during RvNOTES for deep infiltrative endometriosis.

Discharge within 24 h, transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery- more suitable for ambulatory surgery in gynecology procedures: a retrospective study

BackgroundNatural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is an achievement in the field of minimally invasive surgery. However, the vantage point of vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) in gynecologicalprocedures remains unclear. The main purpose of this study was to compare vNOTES with laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery, and to determine which procedure is more suitable for ambulatory surgery in gynecologic procedures.MethodsThis retrospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Gynecology, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital. The 207 enrolled patients had accepted vNOTES and laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery in gynecology procedures from February 2021 to March 2022. Surgically relevant information regarding patients who underwent ambulatory surgery was collected, and 64 females underwent vNOTES.ResultsMultiple outcomes were analyzed in 207 patients. The Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test showed that there were statistically significant differences between the vNOTES and laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery groups in terms of postoperative pain score (0 vs. 1 scores, p = 0.026), duration of anesthesia (90 vs. 101 min, p = 0.025), surgery time (65 vs. 80 min, p = 0.015), estimated blood loss (20 vs. 40 mL, p < 0.001), and intestinal exhaustion time (12.20 vs. 17.14 h, p < 0.001). Treatment with vNOTES resulted in convenience, both with respect to time savings and hemorrhage volume in surgery and with respect to the quality of the prognosis.ConclusionThese comprehensive data reveal the capacity of vNOTES to increase surgical efficiency. vNOTES in gynecological procedures may demonstrate sufficient feasibility and provide a new medical strategy compared with laparo-endoscopic single-site surgery for ambulatory surgery in gynecological procedures.

Effectiveness of NOTES versus traditional techniques on surgical outcomes in adults with diverticulitis: a systematic review protocol.

This review will evaluate the effectiveness of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES)/hybrid NOTES versus traditional surgical techniques in the management of diverticular disease. Diverticular disease can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life, especially the changes affecting bowel function. Recurrent/severe symptoms may require surgery. Resections are invasive and can have significant operative complications. There has been a shift from an open resection to a more minimally invasive technique such as laparoscopy. Furthermore, the use of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic resection, using a transanal/transvaginal approach, has begun to be used in colorectal resections. Eligible studies will include patients who underwent surgical resection for diverticular disease or diverticulitis. The review will consider studies that evaluate NOTES in the management of diverticular disease or diverticulitis. This will include hybrid procedures involving both NOTES and natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE), with the aid of laparoscopy/endoscopy/robotic equipment. Studies on participants under 18 years of age and presenting with non-diverticular pathologies will be excluded. This review will follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement. Databases to be searched will include PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, ClinicalTrials.gov, and ANZCTR, with no language limitations. The reference lists of included studies will be screened for additional studies. This review will preferentially consider experimental and quasi-experimental study designs. Two reviewers will conduct critical appraisal and data extraction. Studies will, where possible, be pooled in statistical meta-analyses. PROSPERO CRD42023420771.

Vaginal Hysterectomy and Pelvic Organ Prolapse: History and Recent Developments.

Vaginal hysterectomy (VH) was described as far back as 120 CE. However, it was not till the mid-1900s when reconstructive procedures were introduced to mitigate the risk of, or treat, pelvic organ prolapse in relation to VH. Furthermore, routine hysterectomy, particularly VH, has long been advocated in prolapse surgery. However, this indication is now questionable. Literature review to provide an overview of current evidence and experts' opinion regarding the relationship between VH and pelvic organ prolapse. The review presents a historical perspective on the role of VH in the management of pelvic organ prolapse, the current debate on the usefulness of the procedure in this context, a practical guide on operative techniques used during VH and the impact of recent surgical developments on its use. Vaginal hysterectomy is a well-established technique that is still superior to laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign gynecological disease, although more surgically challenging. However, it is possible that some contemporary techniques, such as vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, may overcome some of these challenges, and hence increase the number of hysterectomies performed via the vaginal route. Although patients should be counselled about uterine-sparing reconstructive surgery, vaginal hysterectomy continues to be a major surgical procedure in reconstructive pelvic floor surgery. Therefore, it is prudent to continue to train residents in vaginal surgical skills to ensure that they continue to provide safe, cost-effective, and comprehensive patient care.

Resident's Training in Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES) [ID 2683656

INTRODUCTION: As the vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) is becoming a common acceptable approach to perform benign gynecological surgeries, there is need to incorporate it in resident’s curriculum for surgical training. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of hands-on lab simulation for vNOTES on residents’ perception and confidence in this surgical approach. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study conducted at a single tertiary medical center. Study population included 12 fourth-year residents that were evaluated by seven faculty attending surgeons. All residents completed didactic online training of adnexectomy, and vaginal assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy (VALH) performed by vNOTES. Three hands-on simulation labs were scheduled on a monthly base during the study period. Each resident performed both procedures on each encounter. Residents were evaluated by experienced surgeons in vNOTES approach. Survey evaluating the knowledge and confidence in the vNOTES approach was completed by the residents before and after all simulations. RESULTS: Forty-nine assessments were completed, of them 23 adnexectomies and 26 VALHs. Competence in VALH and adnexectomy were achieved in 5/12 and 2/12 of the residents, respectively. Feedback was completed by seven residents before and after the simulations. 33% increase in the confidence to perform anterior and posterior colpotomy was reported by the residents. 71% versus 85% reported confidence in transecting the uterosacral ligaments before and after the simulations, respectively. Confidence in transecting the uterine artery was found doubled (14% versus 28%) during vNOTES approach after the simulation. 15% increase in the confidence to perform adnexectomy was noted after the simulation; however, 14% reduction was reported by the residents in choosing vNOTES approach for hysterectomy. CONCLUSION: Hands-on simulation in vNOTES approach increases the knowledge and confidence of residents in the surgical steps of adnexectomy and VALH, keeping them up to date with the innovative surgical techniques.

Surgical outcomes of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopy in treating ovarian cysts and risk factors for surgical conversions

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the surgical outcomes and identify the conversion risk factors of Transvaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES) in treating ovarian cyst. MethodsThis was a retrospective study of 505 patients who underwent vNO TES for treating ovarian cyst from March 2019 to February 2022 wherein the patients were classified into “converted” or “nonconverted” groups. T-tests, χ2 tests, and logistic regression were used for statistical analyses. ResultsThere were 16 (3.17 %) surgical conversions and 12 (2.38 %) other surgical complications in our study cohort. Teratomas accounted for 56.8 % of complications in nonconverted cases and 18.8 % in converted cases. Adenocystomas were found in 12.3 % of nonconverted cases and 18.8 % of converted cases. Other types included paraovarian cysts (3.3 % and 0 %), fibroma, granulosa cell tumor, Brenner tumor (1.2 % and 0 %), corpus luteum cysts, follicular cysts (7.6 % and 6.3 %), old abscess (0.2 % and 0 %), and simple cysts (17.6 % and 12.5 %) in the nonconverted and converted groups, respectively. The converted group included more cases of endometriotic cysts (43.8 % vs 12.3 %, p = 0.023), bilateral cysts (37.5 % vs 8.2 %, p < 0.001), severe pelvic adhesion (68.8 % vs 3.3 %, p < 0.001), deep endometriosis (12.5 % vs 0.4 %, p < 0.001), and at least two cysts (37.5 % vs 8.81 %; p < 0.001). Severe pelvic adhesion (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 86.96; range, 18.33–431.77; p < 0.001), bilateral cysts (adjusted OR, 4.75; range, 1.05–21.57, p = 0.043) and endometriotic cysts (adjusted OR, 7.69; range, 3.11–17.08; p < 0.001) were also predictors of surgical conversion. ConclusionvNOTES demonstrates low complication and conversion rates in treating ovarian cyst compared with TU-LESS. Surgical conversion is associated with severe pelvic adhesions, bilateral cysts, and endometriotic cysts.

Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES) for Gender Affirmation [ID 2683658

INTRODUCTION: The process of transitioning from female to male in transgender persons usually includes medical treatment as well as surgical interventions, including removal of the uterus and ovaries. Nulliparity and prolonged exposure of the vaginal mucosa to testosterone, which are common among transgender men, may present challenges to perform a vaginal hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy. The aim of this study is to describe outcomes of vaginal-assisted natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) approach to perform hysterectomy among transgender men as part of their gender-affirming care. METHODS: This is a case series observational study conducted at single tertiary medical center including all patients undergoing hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy by vNOTES approach for gender-affirming care between February 2022 and April 2023. Primary outcome was defined as compound complication rate including intraoperative and postoperative. Patients' demographic and clinical charectaristics were collected from the electronic medical files. Pain at postoperative follow-up was evaluated using visual analog scores, which ranges from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain possible). RESULTS: The study population included eight transgender men, all of whom were nulliparous and had undergone testosterone treatment for more than a year. Median age at surgery was 24 years and median body mass index was 30 kg/m2. Mean operative time of the surgery was 111 minutes (range: 91–143 minutes) and none required converting from vNOTES to an alternative approach. No extensive bleeding or organ damage was reported. For one patient, there was one small vaginal laceration requiring suture. All but one patient was discharged the same day. The patient requiring next-day discharge was complicated by postoperative urinary retention. On postoperative follow-up, median pain score was 3 (range: 1–5). CONCLUSION: Outcomes from this case series suggest that a vNOTES approach to hysterectomy among transgender men can be performed without surgical complications and with low self-reported pain.

Non-descent vaginal hysterectomies: a brief report

Non-descent vaginal hysterectomies: a brief report

Colonoscopy in the diagnosis and management of appendiceal disease

In this editorial, we comment on the article published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy . We focused on the understanding of appendiceal disease, and the various options for diagnosis and treatment via endoscopy. Some factors affecting the diagnosis and management of appendiceal diseases are also discussed. The existence of any organ has its natural rationality, and the appendix is such a magical organ. A growing number of experts and scholars have gradually come to a consensus that the appendix is not a useless evolutionary relic. There are many lymphocytes and lymph nodes in the appendix wall, which has a strong immune function, and this function is particularly important for children and adolescents. Many intestinal probiotics in the appendix are very helpful for maintaining the balance of the intestinal flora. With the continuous progress of endoscopic technology, endoscopic treatment involving preservation of the appendix has shown great advantages over surgery. In the diagnosis of appendiceal inflammation and neoplasms, colonoscopy, endoscopic retrograde appendicography and choledochoscopy help assess conditions of the appendix. Endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy, abscess drainage under colonoscopy, fenestration of abscess under colonoscopy, and endoscopic or natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery resection of appendiceal neoplasms are safe and effective endoscopic treatments for appendiceal disease. New breakthroughs in the application of endoscopy in the appendix are expected to occur in the near future.

Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery Hysterectomy Deconstructed: Expanding Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeons' Toolbox.

The introduction of vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) to the toolbox of gynecologic surgeons has the potential to reverse the trend of vaginal hysterectomy declines. This review discusses nuances of the vNOTES technique applied to hysterectomy; describes vNOTES hysterectomy, step-by-step (including tips and tricks for low- and high-complexity cases for surgeons who may want to incorporate vNOTES hysterectomy into their surgical repertoires); and examines evidence and research trends in this field. The descriptions in the text, figures, tables, and videos all contribute to giving readers a clear understanding of vNOTES, its advantages, limitations, and research potentials. vNOTES hysterectomy is a unique blend of vaginal, laparoscopic, and laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) techniques and is not a new procedure, but rather another tool to use in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. (J GYNECOL SURG 40:78).

Ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation by vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery: a new approach for a minimal invasive ovarian biopsy

Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) is an emerging surgical procedure that combines the advantages of the vaginal approach with laparoscopic vision and instrumentation [1]. Shorter hospitalization and lower postoperative pain associated to vNOTES [2] may be explained by the advantages of this innovative surgical approach (such as absence of abdominal incisions, shorter operating time, lower insufflation pressure) [2;3]. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation allows to preserve reproductive and endocrine functions in young women with oncological disease at risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) caused by gonadotoxic treatments [4]. Ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation consists of a large biopsy of one or both ovaries [4] that is usually performed by laparoscopy. Then, the removed ovarian tissue is cryopreserved for the future transplant after cancer remission. Volume of ovarian biopsy ranges from 50% of the ovary for women at moderate risk of POI to 70 % or whole ovary for women at high risk [5]. Inclusion criteria for ovarian tissue cryopreservation are women aged less than 35 who cannot delay start of oncological treatments for follicles cryopreservation, with a moderate or high risk of POI and good chance of 5-year survival [6]. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation cannot be performed if tumor treatments include uterine irradiation or for tumors at risk of ovarian metastases (as in case of ovarian cancer, leukemia, neuroblastoma, Burkitt lymphoma) [7]. Despite widespread adoption of vNOTES in gynecology, ovarian biopsy for cryopreservation has never been performed using this route. Step-by-step explanation of the procedure with descriptive text and narrated video footage. Tertiary level referral academic center. A 27-years-old patient recently diagnosed with low grade follicular non-hodgkin lymphoma was referred to our center for ovarian tissue cryopreservation before chemotherapy. The patient included in this study gave informed consent for publication of the video and posting of the video online including social media, the journal website, scientific literature websites (such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, etc.) and other applicable sites. Due to the nature of the study, IRB approval was not required. Access to peritoneal cavity was created by a 3 cm posterior colpotomy. Peritoneum was then opened using cold scissors and temporarily fixed to the posterior vaginal wall. The Gelpoint Mini Advanced Access Platform (Applied Medical, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA), with one 10 mm and two 5 mm trocars, was used as vNOTES port. The inner Alexis ring of the Gelpoint was inserted through the colpotomy into the pouch of Douglas. An hysterometer was placed into the uterine cavity to keep the uterus anteverted during the surgery. A pneumoperitoneum was created to a pressure of 8 mmHg and the operating table was tilted to 20° Trendelenburg position. A 10-mm rigid 30° camera was inserted in the inferior and larger trocar and both the ovaries were visualized. 70 % of the left ovary was removed with cold scissors, in order to minimize trauma on the surgical specimen. After removal of the Gelpoint cap, ovarian biopsy was immediately picked-up by the biologist of our fertility center. The ovary was coagulated with bipolar instrument. Hysterometer was then replaced by a uterine manipulator to perform tubal patency test and blue dye passage through both the salpinges was observed. Finally, the Alexis retractor and the stich on the posterior peritoneum were removed and the vagina was sutured using interrupted stiches. Total operative time was 25 minutes. Ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation by vNOTES. No intraoperative and postoperative complications were reported and the patient was discharged after 24 hours from surgery. VNOTES may be a feasible alternative approach to laparoscopy for ovarian tissue cryopreservation: it allows an easy access to the ovaries and removal of different tissue volumes. Patients undergoing ovarian cryopreservation may benefit of vNOTES approach since a rapid post-operative recovery is crucial to start chemotherapy in a short time. As for other vNOTES surgical procedures, accurate selection of patients seems to be crucial for a successful ovarian tissue cryopreservation [8]. We think that inclusion and exclusion criteria reported for other gynecologic procedures performed through vNOTES may also be valid for ovarian tissue cryopreservation by vNOTES [9]. Women at high risk of pelvic adhesions (such as coexistent endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery or inflammatory pelvic disease), with elevated Body Mass Index or enlarged uterus as well as women with cervical, vaginal or uterine cancer cannot be considered for this approach since all these factors are associated to failure of vNOTES. On the other hand, women with no history of surgery, endometriosis and large myomas may benefit from vNOTES approach and these women represent most of patients who undergo ovarian tissue cryopreservation.

VNOTES Radical Hysterectomy: A New Approach to Cervical Cancer

To demonstrate how a radical hysterectomy with sentinel node resection for cervical cancer can be performed via vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES). Demonstration of the technique in 10 steps. making use of narrated original video footage SETTING: The surgical treatment of cervical cancer is traditionally performed via one of the following techniques: Wertheim radical hysterectomy via laparotomy, Schauta radical hysterectomy vaginally, laparoscopic radical hysterectomy or robotic radical hysterectomy. The results of the LACC trial showed that minimally invasive radical hysterectomy was associated with lower rates of disease-free survival and overall survival than open radical hysterectomy among women with early-stage cervical Cancer [1]. For endometrial cancer, a vNOTES retroperitoneal approach to sentinel node resection was first published in 2019 [2]. Based on the experience with this approach and with Schauta-Stoeckel radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer [3], a new approach was developed to perform a radical hysterectomy via vNOTES whereby most of the procedure is performed retroperitoneally [4]. This video article demonstrates in 10 steps how a radical hysterectomy via vNOTES is performed. Radical hysterectomy via vNOTES demonstrated making use of original video footage of a 57-year-old woman operated on for cervical adenocarcinoma 7 weeks after a LEEP cone. The steps of the procedure are: 1. Vaginal cuff creation, 2. Development of lateral retroperitoneal space and sentinel node resection, 3. Uterine artery and vein transection, 4. Hypogastric nerve dissection, 5. Development of central retroperitoneal space and rectum dissection, 6. Posterior colpotomy, 7. Parametrium dissection, 8. Bladder pillar dissection, 9. Anterior colpotomy, 10. Salpingo-oophorectomy or salpingectomy. 3 Patients were so far treated by this new technique that allowed for good hemostatic control. vNOTES enables a potentially less invasive approach to radical hysterectomy performed largely retroperitoneally and completely transvaginally, leaving no visible scars. The endoscopic approach offers excellent visualization of the retroperitoneal and parametrial anatomy. This is a new approach that requires further validation and should only be performed in a research setting, taking into account the current reservations about endoscopic surgery for cervical cancer resulting from the LACC trial. VIDEO ABSTRACT.

Vaginal colpotomy for traditional and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) vaginal procedures

Vaginal colpotomy for traditional and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) vaginal procedures

Comparison of Prone With Lithotomy Position in Removal of Posterior Myoma in Transvaginal Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study

ObjectiveVaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) is considered to have the advantages of completely scarless, less postoperative pain, earlier flatus, and faster postoperative recovery. However, posterior myoma are relatively difficult to operate through vNOTES in the conventional lithotomy position. Thus, we innovated the application of prone position in the removal of posterior myoma in vNOTES. The aim of this study is the comparison of myomectomy outcomes of patient for single posterior myoma in prone and lithotomy position. DesignA single-center, prospective study. SettingA university teaching hospital. PatientsA total of 81 patients with posterior myoma who underwent myomectomy in vNOTES from January 2021 to December 2022. InterventionsThe patients underwent myomectomy in vNOTES in prone or lithotomy position. Measurements and Main ResultsAmong the patients who underwent vNOTES myomectomy, 29 (35.8%) were in the lithotomy position group, and 52 (64.2%) in the prone position group. Of note, 4 (4.9%) patients underwent a conversion to LESS during the operation—3 in the lithotomy and 1 in the prone position group. And a patient in the lithotomy position group underwent resurgery for hemostasis due to postoperative pelvic bleeding. Compared with the lithotomy position, prone position significantly shortens the operation time (12.3, 95% CI: 6.811, 17.761. p = .009) without increasing the complications and postoperative discomfort of patients. ConclusionCompared to the lithotomy position, the prone position provides greater convenience for operation and exhibits a lower rate of surgical conversion during the removal of single posterior myomas via vNOTES. Further, for patients selecting vNOTES, surgeons need to conduct sufficient preoperative evaluation, timely hemostasis during surgery, and timely surgical conversion if necessary to ensure patient safety.

Pain following vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) in obese compared to non-obese women

Pain following vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) in obese compared to non-obese women