Neuropathies associated with radical pelvic surgery for gynecologic cancer

Gynecol Oncol. 1988 Nov;31(3):462-6. doi: 10.1016/s0090-8258(88)80032-5.

Abstract

Nerve injury is an infrequent complication of gynecologic surgery. We reviewed, over the previous academic year, our experience with this complication after radical pelvic surgery. Four cases are reported (1.06%) and discussed. In our experience, neuropathies are infrequently associated with radical pelvic surgery. However, they are often irreversible. Careful surgical technique and care in the methods of obtaining hemostasis are probably the most important factors in the prevention of these complications. In gynecologic operations in general, the most important factors in prevention of postoperative neuropathies include careful placement of the self-retaining retractor for abdominal operations, and careful positioning of the patient in stirrups whenever they are used.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laparotomy / adverse effects
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / etiology*
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / surgery*