Influence of training level on cervical cone size and resection margin status at conization: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE: To explore whether a surgeon’s training level influences the rate of incomplete resections or the amount of resected cervical tissue in women treated with large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ). METHODS: The present study is a retrospective analysis of the data of women who had undergone LLETZ for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) within the years 2004–2008 at the Medical University of Vienna. Women were grouped according to the level of training of the operating surgeon (i.e, resident or staff gynecologist) and univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for excessive cone volume, depth and incomplete resection (i.e., positive resection margin). RESULTS: Data of 912 women were analysed. Residents had a significantly larger cone volume [median 2681 (interquartile range 1472–4109) mm(3)] than staff gynecologists [2094 (1309–3402) mm(3)] (p = 0.001) in univariate analysis. The depth of resection and the rate of incomplete resection were comparable between both groups. In a binary logistic multivariable analysis, the level of training as well as patient’s age was significantly associated with a cone volume larger than 2500 mm(3). CONCLUSION: Conization performed by residents as opposed to staff gynecologists does not compromise the procedure’s effectiveness but may expose women to a potential additional risk for adverse obstetrical outcomes due to excessive resection of cervical tissue. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1007/s00404-018-4761-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.