LATE IMPACT OF THE LAPAROSCOPIC TREATMENT OF DEEP INFILTRATING ENDOMETRIOSIS WITH SEGMENTAL COLORECTAL RESECTION

BACKGROUND: Deep infiltrating colorectal endometriosis may severely affect the quality of life and fertility of patients. Although segmental resection is a therapeutic option that provides positive outcomes in the management of symptoms, its functional effects are still unproven. AIM: Assess the late impact of the laparoscopic approach in treating deep infiltrating endometriosis with segmental colorectal resection. METHODS: Prospective case series of 46 patients submitted to laparoscopic treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis with segmental colorectal resection between 2013 and 2016. Fertility, gynecological and bowel symptoms were assessed at the preoperative period and at three and 12 months (or more) after the procedure. RESULTS: Preoperative interview assessed the prevalence of infertility (45.6%), gynecological (87%) and intestinal (80.4%) symptoms. At the third month after the procedure a significant reduction in the prevalence of gynecological symptoms (p<0,001), tenesmus (p=0,001) and dysquesia (p=0,002) was observed. After a period of 12 months or more following the procedure a significant reduction in the prevalence persisted for dysmenorrhea (p=0,001), deep dyspareunia (p=0,041), chronic pelvic pain (p=0,011) and dysquesia (p=0,001), as compared to the preoperative period. Total pregnancy rate was 57.1% and spontaneous pregnancy 47.6%. CONCLUSION: The treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis using segmental colorectal resection has provided early and late relief of gynecological and bowel symptoms. The outcomes also indicate a positive impact on the fertility of infertile patients.