Laparoscopic assisted Doderlein hysterectomy: initial experience in a provincial Australian centre

Despite the theoretical advantages that laparoscopic hysterectomy techniques offer, this is not a commonly performed operation in Australia. The laparoscopically assisted Doderlein hysterectomy is a technique that offers significant advantages in speed, ease of performance, and low cost. We describe our technique and results of the first 36 cases performed for a range of clinical indications and uterine weights, using widely available and non-disposable equipment. Operating time (including adjunctive operations) varied from 48 to 165 minutes and no significant complications were encountered.