OBJECTIVETo investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of laparoscopic radical trachelectomy and lymphadenectomy in the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer.

METHODSThe clinical data of 6 patients (stage 1a2 to 1b1), who underwent laparoscopic fertility-preserving radical operation for cervical cancer in our department from February 2009 to October 2010, were retrospectively analyzed in terms of operation duration, intra-operative blood loss, postoperative pathology, complications, and pregnancy.

RESULTSBoth radical resection of cervical and pelvic lymph node dissection were completed under laparoscopy, and only the cervical and vaginal cuffs were closed from vagina. The operation duration ranged 155-210 min (mean: 185 min) and the intra-operative blood loss was approximately 60-120 ml(mean: 105 ml). The average length of hospital stay was 18 days without complications, postoperative infection, and bleeding. Postoperative pathology showed no lymph node metastasis, and no ligament, blood vessels, vaginal cutting margin, or upper part of cervix was invaded by tumor cells. During the 8-20-month follow-up, 1 patient had become pregnant for 4 months and no case experienced tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSIONLaparoscopic fertility-preserving lymphadenectomy and radical trachelectomy is feasible for patients with early-stage cervical cancer who have strong wish to have a child.