Comparing Robotics and Laparoscopy With Laparotomy/Open Surgery for Endometrial Cancer

A Prospective Study Evaluating Surgical and Quality of Life Outcomes in Robotics and Laparoscopy Compared to Laparotomy in Early Stage Endometrial Cancer

The use of robotic surgery in the management of gynecologic cancers has increased exponentially in the United States since the implementation of technology in 2005. In Canada, access to the system is limited because of a lack of government funding. The government has been reluctant to fund this technology because robust data, on the true impact to patient care, is lacking.

This project will prospectively examine outcomes of women, with early stage endometrial cancer, treated surgically. Open surgery will be compared to minimally invasive surgery (MIS) which will include conventional laparoscopy and robotic surgery. The data collected will include detailed assessment of surgical data, peri-operative events, quality of life analysis, health economic evaluation and evaluation of MIS rates.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Any type of histologically confirmed early stage (stage 1 or 2) cancer of the endometrium
• ECOG Performance status of 0-1
• Suitable candidate for surgery
• Signed approved informed consent
• Female, 18 years of age or older
• Pre-operative health is graded as ASA I-III
• Patients able to complete baseline questions either on their own or with assistance
• Patient willing to comply with scheduled visits

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major abdominal surgery, chemotherapy or radiation within 3 months before the baseline visit
• Evidence of diffuse peritoneal carcinomatosis by imaging or clinical exam
• Unfit for surgery: concomitant disorders incompatible with the study or surgery (at the discretion of the investigator)
• Patients who are breastfeeding or become pregnant during the study