radical trachelectomy
Pronunciation: tray-kel-EK-tuh-mee
Fertility-preserving surgery for early cervical cancer involving removal of the cervix while preserving the uterine body.
Full Definition
Radical trachelectomy is a fertility-preserving surgical procedure designed for young women with early-stage cervical cancer who desire future childbearing. The operation involves removal of the cervix, upper vagina, parametrium, and pelvic lymph nodes while preserving the uterine corpus and ovaries. A permanent cerclage is placed at the cervico-isthmic junction to provide structural support. This procedure offers an alternative to radical hysterectomy in carefully selected patients with tumors smaller than 2 cm and no lymph node involvement. Post-operative pregnancy rates are approximately 50-70%, though there is an increased risk of preterm delivery.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'trachelectomy' which refers to simple cervical amputation.
In Context
- "Radical trachelectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed for stage IB1 cervical adenocarcinoma." — Operative report
- "Candidates for radical trachelectomy must have lesions less than 2 cm with no parametrial involvement." — Oncology guidelines