Lateral closure of the uterine artery prior to laparoscopic hysterectomy: a systematic review

An alternative surgical technique with closure of the uterine artery at its origin, known as lateral approach prior to TLH, has been proposed and it may offer important benefits to both patients and surgeons. Our objectives were to review the current literature regarding surgical outcomes between lateral and conventional approach in relation to TLH. We followed the 'PRISMA' guidelines and conducted a systematic review, which involved searching PubMed and Embase databases for RCTs evaluating the topic. We identified four RCTs including 585 patients. Three of the four studies reported a significant lower bleeding during TLH with prior lateral approach. Operative time was also shorter in the lateral approach group compared to the conventional approach group in three studies. Our review provides evidence that lateral occlusion of the uterine arteries prior to total laparoscopic hysterectomy may be beneficial due to less blood loss and shorter perioperative time without compromising patient safety.