Published in

MDPI, Diagnostics, 1(14), p. 83, 2023

DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14010083

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Surgical Anatomy and Dissection of the Hypogastric Plexus in Nerve-Sparing Radical Hysterectomy

This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

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Data provided by SHERPA/RoMEO

Abstract

Radical hysterectomy is a central surgical procedure in gynecological oncology. A nerve-sparing approach is essential to minimize complications from iatrogenic injury to the pelvic nerves, resulting in postoperative urinary, anorectal, and sexual dysfunction. The hypogastric plexus (HP), a complex network of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, plays a critical role in pelvic autonomic innervation. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the surgical anatomy of the HP and provides a step-by-step description of HP dissection, with a particular emphasis on preserving the bladder nerve branches of the inferior HP. A thorough understanding and mastery of the anatomical and surgical nuances of HP dissection are crucial for optimizing outcomes in nerve-sparing gynecologic-oncological procedures.