Find cutting edge cancer clinical trials near you using the new Victorian Cancer Trials Link.

Search now

Striving for a cancer-free future

Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for endometrial cancer

Lead researcher

A/Prof Andreas Obermair (Qld), Dr Anthony McCartney (WA), Dr Thomas Manolitsas (Vic), Dr Monika Janda (Qld) & Dr Felix Chan (NSW)

Institution
Monash Medical Centre

Years funded
2006-2007

This is a study comparing two types of surgery for treating women with early stage cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer). Treatment for endometrial cancer involves removal of the uterus, but while traditionally this has been done through open surgery by an abdominal cut, the new approach being tested is laparoscopic surgery, more commonly referred to as keyhole surgery.

While standard surgery is an effective treatment for endometrial cancer, it is highly invasive and results in visible scarring, tissue damage, blood loss and a fairly high risk of complications. Recent results of the less invasive laparoscopic surgery have been extremely encouraging.

Laparoscopic surgery has been shown to be practical and safe in treating endometrial cancer, while also resulting in less tissue damage, lower blood loss, less pain and a shorter recovery period in hospital.

This study will examine if laparoscopic surgery when compared to standard surgery for treating women with early stage endometrial cancer will provide benefits such as:

  • An improvement in the quality of life post-surgery
  • A reduced number of early and late surgery-related complications
  • A shorter stay in hospital
  • Requiring fewer blood transfusions
  • Having less pain following surgery
  • Taking fewer analgesics (painkillers)
  • As good a treatment for curing endometrial cancer.   

Lay report: Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for endometrial cancer

Award / Duration

Duration: 2006-2007

Funding

Funding: $27,750 per annum for 2 years