Z. Laučeková, M. Hrtánková, I. Švecová, M. Ňachajová, A. Gondová, P. Žúbor, K. Dókuš, J. Danko
Deep infiltrating endometriosis can lead to infertility and pelvic pain. However, there
is little evidence of association between and infertility deep infiltrating endometriosis,
and the absolute benefit of surgical treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis
has not been proven yet. This article focuses on a review of current literature
about the effect of surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis on fertility, pregnancy
and outcome of IVF. While identifying patients with the risk of endometriosis, it
is inevitable to work with detailed clinical history even though many women remain
asymptomatic. Imaging techniques can be useful in planning surgical procedure.
The effect of surgery on fertility of women with deep infiltrating endometriosis
remains unclear due to the heterogenic character of this disease and lack of clinical
trials with enough statistical power and proper follow-up. Decisions how to approach
particular disease should take into consideration individual needs of each woman.
Patients must be informed about the potential benefits, harm and costs of each
treatment possibilities, while the medical team focuses on factors such as the presence
of pelvic pain, patients age, the location of lesions and previous treatments. In this
scenario, management by a multidisciplinary endometriosis team is a crucial step to
achieve successful outcomes.