The Modern Surgical Strategy for Endometrial Cancer: Laparoscopic Surgery

Surgical staging and management through laparotomy has been the “gold standard” for treatment of endometrial cancer. However, recent advances in laparoscopic surgical techniques and instrumentation have meant that all surgical procedures for the treatment of endometrial cancer can now be performed using laparoscopy, which has naturally led to an increase in its use for treating this condition. Indeed, laparoscopic surgery is now the preferred alternative to laparotomy for the surgical management of endometrial cancer. Laparoscopic surgery is associated with improved outcomes, less complications, and improved quality of life, without compromising survival of patients. This review provides an update on the role of laparoscopic surgery for the surgical management of endometrial cancer with particular emphasis on feasibility, safety, and efficacy, based on the results of randomized, controlled trials comparing laparoscopy and laparotomy for surgical staging of endometrial cancer.