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Abstract
Introduction/Background Beyond implementation of ERAS (Enhaced Recovery After Surgery), we designed a complete change of the surgical process with the aim of improving, not only the quantitative results (stays, complications) but the qualitative (both satisfaction patients and professionals). For this purpose, we obtained a European grant (FEDER-RISC3CAT) of €1,134,000, which involved purchase of materials, devices, and a shared risk consultancy with MEDTRONIC (Data and Project Manager) for the implementation of the whole new process, including prehabilitation, ERAS and new data registry with an automated dashboard on the results. This communication is centred around the vaginal laser therapy effectiveness in managing genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) particularly highlighting its consistency in women with a history of gynaecological cancer. GSM arises from decreased oestrogen and other hormone levels. Local oestrogen therapy stands as the gold standard for managing GSM. However, its usage raises concern in women with a history of gynaecological cancer.
Methodology We proposed a retrospective, observational cohort study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of vaginal laser therapy. Thirty-two patients undergoing laser treatment between December’21 and June’23 were categorised into two cohorts based on their gynaecological cancer history. The Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire (VSQ) measured therapy efficacy before and after treatment. Statistical analyses used McNemar’s test to evaluate overall symptom improvement pre- and post-treatment across the entire cohort. Additionally, the Chi-square test compared treatment outcomes between the cohorts stratified by cancer history.
Results The findings indicated significant improvements in various GSM symptoms post-laser therapy in the complete sample. Notably, when comparing treatment responses between the groups based on cancer history, no significant differences were identified.
Conclusion This study emphasises the effectiveness of vaginal laser therapy as a compelling alternative for managing GSM symptoms. Its efficacy is comparable even in patients with a history of gynaecological cancer, where conventional oestrogen use might be discouraged.
Disclosures No conflicts of interest.
