Open AccessIs abdominal hysterectomy still the surgery of choice in sub‐Saharan Africa?
Author(s) -
Rudnicki Martin,
Shayo Benjamin C.,
Mchome Bariki
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.1111/aogs.14087
Subject(s) - medicine , hysterectomy , invasive surgery , general surgery , abdominal hysterectomy , minimally invasive procedures , laparoscopic hysterectomy , gynecological surgery , laparoscopy , surgery
A trend toward minimally invasive surgery is increasing worldwide. However, reports on the extent and the role of vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy in benign gynecologic surgery in sub‐Saharan Africa are scarce. Our commentary aims to highlight the existing gaps and potential barriers to implementation of vaginal or laparoscopic hysterectomy and suggests how to introduce and expand minimally invasive gynecologic surgery in this region. Little documentation exists in the literature to account for the role of minimally invasive surgery in the sub‐Saharan Africa. Hysterectomy for benign reasons is commonly performed by the abdominal approach. This approach is accompanied by significant complications, prolonged hospitalization, and longer recovery duration. Our commentary highlights the importance of investigating region‐specific barriers to the practice of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery in sub‐Saharan Africa.