Early evaluation of an electromechanical morcellator for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and cost effectiveness of electromechanical morcellation of the uterus and adnexae to enhance laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH). Design 41 consecutive LSH procedures with and without adnectomy were reviewed. An electromechanical morcellator was used in each procedure to accomplish laparoscopic removal of the uterus and adnexae. Setting A private gynaecological practice in a full service hospital. Interventions LSH. Results The mean uterine weight tvas 146 g (60-569 g). The mean operating time was 94 min (60-225 min). The time for morcellation was available in 19 cases by reviewing videotape; the average morcellation time was 11.8 min (4-23 min). Average blood loss was 125 mi (20-600 mi), with one case of late postoperative bleeding requiring operative intervention. The average cost for the procedure was $7998 ($6989-11 581). All patients were discharged within 48 h of the time of admission, and 36 patients were discharged within 23 h from the time of admission. Conclusions LSH is a safe and effective method of managing patients who lack cervical pathology or pelvic relaxation. Electromechanical morcellation can enhance the performance of LSH by decreasing operating time.