trachelectomy
Pronunciation: tray-kel-EK-toh-mee
Fertility-preserving surgical procedure involving removal of the cervix while leaving the uterine body intact.
Full Definition
Trachelectomy is a specialized surgical procedure designed to preserve fertility in young women with early-stage cervical cancer. The procedure involves removal of the cervix, upper vagina, and parametrial tissue while preserving the uterine body and ovaries. This allows for future pregnancy possibilities, though patients require close monitoring due to increased risks of preterm labor and cervical insufficiency. Trachelectomy can be performed through abdominal, vaginal, or minimally invasive approaches. Careful patient selection is crucial, as the procedure is only appropriate for early-stage cancers with favorable histologic features and adequate margins.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the surgical approach (abdominal, vaginal, or minimally invasive) when documenting trachelectomy procedures.
In Context
- "The 28-year-old patient opted for trachelectomy to preserve her fertility while treating her early-stage cervical adenocarcinoma." — Surgical consultation note
- "Robotic trachelectomy was successfully performed with clear margins and preservation of uterine function." — Operative report