Authors: FP Chen; TS Lo; YK Soong

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 13, Number 4, April 1998 , pp. 880-883(4)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

Chylous ascites is an extremely rare complication of laparoscopic presacral neurectomy (LPSN), and treatment is still controversial. Four patients undergoing LPSN for dysmenorrhoea or chronic pelvic pain were complicated with chylous ascites. Two were successfully treated with bipolar cauterization and one, after the failure of initial treatment by bipolar cauterization, was then effectively managed by compression with Gelform and closure of the peritoneum of the presacral area by suture through laparoscopy. The fourth patient had persistent chyle leakage from the drainage tube after electrocauterization and was finally cured by conservative management including removal of the drainage tube and a low-fat diet for 3 weeks. Chylous ascites has not been reported in laparoscopic presacral neurectomy. Management that is quick, effect and subjects the patients to the least amount of suffering is still unresolved. Repeated laparoscopy can be considered to identify the possibility of injury to lymphatic vessels, to relieve abdominal distention due to chyle accumulation, and to apply electrocauterization or compression with Gelform and closure of the peritoneum. Conservative treatment with a low-fat diet may need a longer time. The use of a drainage tube may provide negative pressure allowing a continuous leakage of chyle. However, more controlled study is required to identify the most proper and effective management.

Keywords: chylous ascites/dysmenorrhoea/electrocauterization/laparoscopic presacral neurectomy/low-fat diet

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Corresponding author

Publication date: 1998-04-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Obstetrics & Gynecology
• By this author: FP Chen ;  TS Lo ;  YK Soong

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers