Preservation of autonomic nerves in laparoscopic total radical hysterectomy.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, complications, margin status, and functional outcome (on urinary and sexual functions) of nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy (NSRH) performed laparoscopically.

Methods: Patients with cervical carcinoma of stage Ia2 and Ib1 underwent laparoscopic NSRH along with pelvic lymphadenectomy. We performed the technique in simple comprehensible steps with anatomic delineation of the autonomic nerves and selective cutting of the uterine and cervical branches.