Laparoscopic Pectopexy-CUSUM Learning Curve and Perioperative Complications Analysis

The study aimed to examine the learning curve and perioperative complications for laparoscopic pectopexy (LP). A total of 60 women with stage II-IV apical prolapse who underwent LP were dichotomized into groups: LSH(+) with concomitant laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH), LSH(-) after previous supracervical/total hysterectomy. Operative time, estimated blood loss and hospitalization length were evaluated with cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis and the Kwiatkowski-Phillips-Schmidt-Shin (KPSS) test, separately for two surgeons (A and B). Intraoperative and perioperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo (C-D) classification were analyzed. Mean operative time, change in hemoglobin level, and postoperative hospital stay were 143.5 +/- 23.1 min-1.5 +/- 0.5g/dL and 2.5 +/- 0.9 days, respectively. LSH during pectopexy was associated with longer operative time (p = 0.01) but not with higher intraoperative bleeding or prolonged hospital stay. Severe complications rate was low (1.7%) with one bowel injury in LSH(-) (C-D grade IIIb). No C-D grade II, IV and V complications were found. Conversion to open pectopexy, return to the operating room or blood transfusion were not required. The KPSS test showed that a steady operative time for Surgeon A was achieved after 28 procedures. A proficiency for laparoscopic pectopexy based on CUSUM analysis was observed after 38-40 procedures.

Automated summary

The study examined the learning curve and perioperative complications of laparoscopic pectopexy. Results showed that operative time, intraoperative bleeding, and hospital stay were related to concomitant laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy. Severe complications rate was low, with most patients not requiring conversion to open surgery or blood transfusion.