Laparoscopic Hysterectomy - Outpatient Versus Inpatient Regimen

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (LH) is increasingly used as a standard surgical approach to hysterectomy. It is a safe procedure with low rates of complications and readmissions. Increasing evidence indicates that LH may be suitable for an outpatient setting but this may impair patient's satisfaction in more than 25% of cases. In addition, change from in-patient care to day case surgery might influence readmission rates and postoperative physical activity. No data are available on the current length of sick leave in Danish patients after hysterectomy, and the effects of outpatient surgery on this parameter are difficult to predict. A randomized controlled trial of LH performed as an outpatient procedure compared with today's inpatient standard will provide a firm platform for future planning of routine treatment of patients with need of hysterectomy for benign indications.