Hemostasis Techniques in Myomectomies

Purpose of Review

Myomectomy can be associated with significant blood loss, particularly when large and numerous fibroids are removed. Surgeons have incorporated a large number of methods to reduce blood loss, including pre-operative optimization, the use of minimally invasive surgery, and intraoperative techniques. The purpose of this review is to summarize these methods and evaluate the literature supporting those with clinical value.

Recent Findings

The use of minimally invasive surgery has clear benefit in reducing blood loss in myomectomy for appropriately selected patients. Preoperative hormonal treatments reduce myoma size and reduce the complexity of myomectomy. Myometrial vasoconstriction, vessel ligation or compression, and the use of barbed suture decrease blood loss in myomectomy.

Summary

Surgeons should be aware of the large number of pre-operative and intraoperative measures to reduce blood loss in myomectomy and employ those with proven clinical benefit, particularly in operations that are likely to involve excessive bleeding and the need for transfusion.