8 Endoscopic treatment of uterine fibroids

Endoscopic surgery is able to replace most abdominal operations in the surgical treatment of uterine leiomyomas. The use of gonadotrophin hormone-releasing hormone analogues, arterial embolization, hysteroscopy, new techniques of morcellation, laparo-vaginal gasless laparoscopy and laparoscopic mini-laparotomy have enabled the avoidance of laparotomy incisions in most patients. The previous disadvantages of laparoscopy, namely a prolonged operating time, excessive bleeding and inadequate closure, have been overcome. Case and controlled studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of endoscopy in fibroid treatment. The surgical techniques require advanced endoscopic training.