Surgical treatment of locally progressive stage IIIB carcinoma of the cervix: use of the inverted "T" incision

Stage III carcinoma of the cervix is treated usually, and often effectively, with the combination of radiation and chemotherapy. For tumors locally recurring, without evidence of distant lymphatic or hematogenous spread, the option of pelvic exenteration rises. The described surgical technique derives from soft tissue sarcoma pelvic surgery. It is a lower midline incision extending transversely at its lower end ("reverse T"), which improves the exposure and hence resectability of some of these tumors. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.