New technique to preserve fertility in women with pelvic cancer
A revolutionary treatment has been successfully carried out at the Hospital del Mar in Barcelona, offering an innovative solution to women diagnosed with locally advanced rectal cancer. This technique, known as uterine transposition, allows preserving fertility and avoiding the early onset of menopause in patients with tumors in the pelvic area.
Uterine transposition procedure
The uterine transposition procedure involves two surgical interventions. In the first, the uterus and ovaries are moved to the abdomen, above the navel, out of the radiation field. In the second operation, after completing the oncological treatment, the organs are returned to their natural position.
Preserving fertility and avoiding menopause
Uterine transposition ensures the preservation of the vascularization of the uterus through the ovaries during cancer treatment. This protects the organs from the side effects of radiotherapy and, at the same time, prevents infertility and early menopause in patients.
Success of treatment at Hospital del Mar
A 36-year-old patient underwent this revolutionary treatment at the Hospital del Mar, performing both interventions using robotic surgery to minimize the impact. Thanks to this technique, the patient now has the possibility of conceiving a child, if she so wishes.
Hope for young women
The treatment offers hope to young women diagnosed with rectal cancer, allowing them to preserve the option of becoming mothers. Before starting radiotherapy, uterine transposition is considered as a measure to avoid irreversible damage to the uterus and ovaries, thus preserving fertility and avoiding early menopause.
Medical equipment and determination of eligible patients
The treatment requires the collaboration of several medical services, including Digestive System, General Surgery, Medical Oncology and Radiation Oncology. The hospital has established a circuit to identify and refer women with pelvic tumors to assess whether they are candidates for this innovative procedure, ensuring that the start of cancer treatment is not delayed.