Learning curve of Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in Resource Restricted Settings

Dr. Yamini Gadkari, Dr. Sanjana Sainani, Dr. Prachi Dixit, Dr. Anuja Bhalerao

Introduction

Hysterectomy is the most common gynaecologicalsurgery, especially for benign conditions. Total  laparoscopic hysterectomy has become a standard practice worldwide. Defining the learning curve is  necessary for the implementation of this surgery in the standard education of gynaecologists.

We present our analysis of this learning curve.

Aims and Objectives

To analyze the learning curve of total laparoscopic hysterectomy

Materials &Methods

A retrospective analysis of total laparoscopic hysterectomy was  done for 124 consecutive patients from January 2022 to November 2022 for benign gynaecologicalindications. All patients were operated by a single surgeon. The total number of patients were divided into 2 groups, Group A: 1st 61 patients and Group B: next 63 patients and outcomes were analyzed in terms of indication of surgery, duration of surgery and postoperative complications

Conclusions 

There is a definite learning curve in starting total laparoscopic hysterectomy in resource-restricted settings. 

Some of the difficulties that we faced were lack of good surgical equipment, untrained team and anesthetist’s reluctance for general anesthesia. 

We formed a dedicated team for laparoscopy, attended workshops and convinced anesthetists for their support. 

This learning curve can be overcome so as to do a safe laparoscopic hysterectomy in benign gynaecological indications and provide maximum benefit to patients