9 Radical hysterectomy

Abstract

Radical hysterectomy for the treatment of cervical cancer was first performed just over 100 years ago. Refinements of surgical technique and improvements in supportive measures, such as transfusions and antibiotics, have brought about a marked decrease in morbidity and mortality from surgery and improvement in overall survival. The indications for operation, pre-operative investigations and preparation, surgical technique, post-operative complications and their management, and factors influencing prognosis are discussed.