Laparoscopic hysterectomies are less invasive than abdominal ones, with fewer perioperative morbidities and faster recovery, but, in some cases, the uterus cannot be removed without prior morcellation (the cutting of the organ into small pieces). The use of electric power morcellators was approved by the FDA in 1995 but has become controversial because of the risk of dissemination of occult uterine cancer. However, the risks and benefits of this procedure may vary with age.
To assess the risks and benefits of three types of hysterectomy procedures, laparoscopy, laparoscopy with morcellation, and abdominal hysterectomy, Jason D. Wright, of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, and colleagues, developed a model simulating morbidity, mortality, quality of life, and cost for women…
