24 Jul What Is Risk of Cancer In Women Who Have Morcellation Hysterectomy?

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Jason D. Wright, M.D.
Levine Family Assistant Professor of Women’s Health
Florence Irving Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Division of Gynecologic Oncology
Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons
161 Fort Washington Ave, New York, New York 10032

Medical Research: What are the main findings of the study?

Dr. Wright: This study is one of the first large scale studies to examine the risk of cancer specifically in women who underwent hysterectomy with electric power morcellation. Among 32,000 women treated at over 500 hospitals across the US we noted cancer in 27 per 10,000 women.

Medical Research: Were any of the findings unexpected?

Dr. Wright: Prior to this study there was very little data specifically examining risks in women undergoing electric power morcellation. Our findings suggest a higher rate of pathology than often quoted.

Medical Research: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?

Dr. Wright: The prevalence of cancer we noted was similar to what was reported by the FDA. Additionally, older age was a strong risk for cancer.

Medical Research:  What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Dr. Wright: While our study examines the prevalence of cancer, further studies to determine whether morcellation increases the risk of dissemination of cancer and whether it affects outcomes are needed.

Citation:

Last Updated on July 24, 2014 by Marie Benz MD FAAD