Radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy

One hundred thirty-five patients who had radical hysterectomy for gynecologic malignancy over a 6-year period are critically analyzed. Basic vital statistics and complications are reported and compared with published results of other recent series. The operative mortality was 0.74% and the fistula rate was 1.48%, which compares favorably with the rates in most large centers in which radical pelvic surgery is common practice. Predisposing factors which might influence operative or postoperative complications are discussed and a historical perspective is included.