1 Recommendations

1 Recommendations

1.1 Evidence on the safety of laparoscopic removal of uterine fibroids with power morcellation shows potentially serious complications. In particular there is a risk of spreading undiagnosed malignant tissue, which has higher prevalence in people who are postmenopausal or over 50. Evidence on the procedure's efficacy is limited in quantity. Therefore:

1.2 Further research should report details of patient selection, surgical technique (including any containment system used) and long-term outcomes.

1.3 Clinicians wishing to do laparoscopic removal of uterine fibroids with power morcellation in people who are premenopausal or 50 or under should:

1.4 Healthcare organisations should:

  • Ensure systems are in place that support clinicians to collect and report data on outcomes and safety for every patient having this procedure.

  • Regularly review data on outcomes and safety for this procedure.

1.5 This procedure should only be done by a surgeon with specific training in laparoscopic surgery. When an in-bag technique is needed, the surgeon should also have specific training in using containment systems.

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)