Nerve-sparing class III radical hysterectomy: a modified technique to spare the pelvic autonomic nerves without compromising radicality

The objectives were to describe our nerve-sparing class III radical hysterectomy technique and assess the feasibility and safety of the procedure as well as its impact on voiding function. From January to August 2005, 21 consecutive patients with FIGO stage IB-IIA cervical cancer and 1 patient with clinical stage II endometrial cancer underwent nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy with systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy. The transurethral catheter was removed on the seventh postoperative day. Then intermittent self-catheterization was performed and post-void residual urine volume (PVR) was recorded. The nerve-sparing procedure was completed successfully and safely in all of the patients. Eight (36%) and 6 (27%) patients had the PVR of < 100 ml and < 50 ml respectively at the initial removal of the catheter. On the fourteenth day, 82% and 77% of the patients had the PVR of < 100 ml and < 50 ml, respectively. The mean duration before the PVR became < 50 ml was 11.27 (5-26) days. In conclusion, the technique described in this preliminary study appears safe, adequate, and feasible in our population with satisfactory recovery of voiding function. A larger comparative study is needed on long-term urinary, bowel, and sexual function as well as recurrence and survival.