[Laparoscopic hysterectomy--the initial experience in Bulgaria].

The paper presents the first cases of laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy and laparoscopic hysterectomy with removal of the uterus through the vagina performed in Bulgaria as well as the experience gained by the team from II gynaecology clinic at State University Hospital "Maĭchin dom" in Sofia from seven patients operated on by these techniques. The indications, the conditions and the implemented technique with its advantages and difficulties are described. The procedures are associated with less trauma and blood loss than abdominal surgery and are followed by a very smooth postoperative period which is very well tolerated by the patients. No intraoperative complications occurred. The postoperative period was free of any problems in 5 of the patients while in two there were minor complications. Marked shortening of the duration of the procedures is achieved with the initial experience.