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Introduction: Pain experience, physical reaction, image quality and adverse events during Gel Instillation Sonohysterography (GIS) can differ using gels with different compositions. As a result, patient satisfaction can also be affected. The effect of two instillation gels, Endosgel versus ExEmgel, using both the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and a Continuous Pain Score Meter (CPSM) was therefore compared., Methods: This single centre double blind randomised controlled trial included 80 women planned for outpatient GIS, diagnosed with abnormal intrauterine bleeding or fertility disorders and suspicion on an intrauterine abnormality. Patients were randomly allocated to the instillation of Endosgel containing chlorhexidine or ExEmgel without chlorhexidine. Primary outcome was reported pain during the procedure using VAS. Secondary outcomes included pain score measured using CPSM, satisfaction to the procedure and preference at 3 weeks and 3 months after the procedure and image quality. A cost benefit analysis was also performed., Results: The reported median VAS concerning pain during gel instillation was comparable in the Endosgel and ExEmgel group, 2.50 (IQR 0.00-5.00) and 2.00 (IQR 0.00-5.75) respectively (p = 0.69). The median VAS of the entire procedure was also similar: both 2.00 (IQR 0.00-5.00) (p = 0.86). CPSM-scores were not significantly different either. Both groups were similar in image quality (p = 0.83) and patient's satisfaction (p = 0.36)., Conclusion: Concerning the pain experienced during a GIS procedure and patients' satisfaction, the ExEmgel was not proven to be superior to the Endosgel. Our advice is to use the gel that is available at the lowest costs, as the image quality is the same for both Endosgel and ExEmgel., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: After incomplete healing of the uterine cesarean section scar, a niche can be observed; 24% of the women develop large niches with a residual myometrial thickness <3 mm. In these cases a laparoscopic resection is possible. The effect of this new treatment on fertility outcome is not known yet. This paper describes reproductive outcomes 2 years after a laparoscopic niche resection and compares women with or without secondary infertility at baseline., Material and Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed, with consecutive inclusion of women between 2011 and 2019. Women with a niche in the uterine cesarean scar, with a residual myometrial thickness of <3 mm and with a desire to become pregnant, were scheduled to undergo a laparoscopic niche resection because of one or more of the following problems (1) postmenstrual spotting; (2) midcycle intrauterine fluid accumulation diagnosed during the fertility workup or (3) difficulties with a previous embryo transfer and preferring a surgical therapy. The study is registered in the ISRCTN register (ref. no. ISRCTN02271575) on April 23, 2013., Results: There were 133 (62%) women included with a desire to become pregnant, 88 with secondary infertility. In all, 83 had an ongoing pregnancy at the 2-year follow-up. The ongoing pregnancy rate in patients with previous fertility problems was 60.2% compared with 66.7% in patients without infertility (odds ratio [OR] 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32-1.7). The OR for live births was 0.57 (95% CI 0.02-1.2). Overall, 8.3% of the pregnancies resulted in miscarriages by the 2-year follow-up., Conclusions: The reproductive outcomes in women with and without previous fertility problems undergoing resection of a large niche are very promising and quite comparable in both groups. These results suggest, but do not prove, a beneficial effect of this therapy for these indications. The results support the design of future randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effect of niche resection vs expectant management to assess its additional value in women with or without fertility problems who desire pregnancy., (© 2023 The Authors. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology (NFOG).)

Objective: To develop a standardized sonographic evaluation and reporting system for Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) in the first trimester, for use by both general gynecology and expert clinics., Methods: A modified Delphi procedure was carried out, in which 28 international experts in obstetric and gynecological ultrasonography were invited to participate. Extensive experience in the use of ultrasound to evaluate Cesarean section (CS) scars in early pregnancy and/or publications concerning CSP or niche evaluation was required to participate. Relevant items for the detection and evaluation of CSP were determined based on the results of a literature search. Consensus was predefined as a level of agreement of at least 70% for each item, and a minimum of three Delphi rounds were planned (two online questionnaires and one group meeting)., Results: Sixteen experts participated in the Delphi study and four Delphi rounds were performed. In total, 58 items were determined to be relevant. We differentiated between basic measurements to be performed in general practice and advanced measurements for expert centers or for research purposes. The panel also formulated advice on indications for referral to an expert clinic. Consensus was reached for all 58 items on the definition, terminology, relevant items for evaluation and reporting of CSP. It was recommended that the first CS scar evaluation to determine the location of the pregnancy should be performed at 6-7 weeks' gestation using transvaginal ultrasound. The use of magnetic resonance imaging was not considered to add value in the diagnosis of CSP. A CSP was defined as a pregnancy with implantation in, or in close contact with, the niche. The experts agreed that a CSP can occur only when a niche is present and not in relation to a healed CS scar. Relevant sonographic items to record included gestational sac (GS) size, vascularity, location in relation to the uterine vessels, thickness of the residual myometrium and location of the pregnancy in relation to the uterine cavity and serosa. According to its location, a CSP can be classified as: (1) CSP in which the largest part of the GS protrudes towards the uterine cavity; (2) CSP in which the largest part of the GS is embedded in the myometrium but does not cross the serosal contour; and (3) CSP in which the GS is partially located beyond the outer contour of the cervix or uterus. The type of CSP may change with advancing gestation. Future studies are needed to validate this reporting system and the value of the different CSP types., Conclusion: Consensus was achieved among experts regarding the sonographic evaluation and reporting of CSP in the first trimester. © 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology., (© 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.)

Background: Uterine fibroids present differently, from well vascularised up to calcified, with some causing heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB)., Objectives: To investigate the association between fibroid vascularisation and HMB, other fibroid related symptoms and quality of life (QOL)., Materials and Methods: A single centre pilot study was carried out in the Netherlands. Women with a maximum of two fibroids who chose expectant management were included. 3D sonography including power doppler was performed at baseline and at 3, 6 and 12 months follow up. Women were asked to complete the Pictorial Blood Assessment Chart (PBAC) and Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaires at every visit., Main Outcome Measure: Main outcome measure: The association between fibroid vascularisation and HMB., Results: 53 women were included in the study. Baseline fibroid vascularisation, measured as vascular index (VI) is associated with PBAC score; a 1% higher VI at baseline leads to an 11 point increase in PBAC score over time (RC 10.99, p=0.05, 95% CI -0.15 - 22.12). After correction for the baseline variables ethnicity and fibroid type the association becomes stronger (P<0.05). Fibroid volume at baseline and HMB are also associated: a 1 cm3 larger fibroid leads to 0.6 points increase in PBAC score over time (RC 0.56, p=0.03, 95% CI 0.05 - 1.07)., Conclusions: Conclusions: This study highlights that both fibroid vascularisation and fibroid volume may be associated with an increase in menstrual blood loss, other fibroid related symptoms and QOL over time., What Is New?: What is new? We used 3D power doppler to predict symptomatic fibroids.

Objective: To compare pain measured with a new electronic device - the Continuous Pain Score Meter (CPSM) - and the Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) during gynaecological procedures in an outpatient setting, and to correlate these outcomes with baseline anxiety and patient (in)tolerance to the procedure., Study Design: This prospective cohort study was undertaken in two centres: a university hospital and a large teaching hospital in The Netherlands. Patients undergoing an outpatient hysteroscopy, colposcopy or ovum pick-up procedure for in-vitro fertilization in one of the two participating hospitals with availability of the CPSM were included. Pain was measured by both the CPSM and the VRS. Patient tolerance to the procedure was reported. Various outcomes of the CPSM were compared with those of the VRS and related to baseline anxiety scores., Results: Ninety-one of 108 included patients (84 %) used the CPSM correctly during the procedure, and it was possible to analyse the CPSM scores for 87 women (81 %). The CPSM scores were all linearly related to the VRS. The peak pain score on the CPSM (CPSM-PPS) had the strongest correlation with the VRS score for all three procedures. Higher CPSM-PPS was related to patient (in)tolerance to the procedure (p = 0.03-0.002). Anxiety at baseline was not correlated with pain perception, except for VRS during colposcopy (r = 0.39, p = 0.016)., Conclusion: The majority of patients were able to use the CPSM correctly, resulting in detailed information on pain perception for each individual pain stimulus during three outpatient gynaecological procedures. The CPSM-PPS had the strongest correlation with the VRS score and patient (in)tolerance to the procedure., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Study Question: Are the long-term reproductive outcomes following recurrent dilatation and curettage (D&C) for miscarriage in women with identified and treated intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) comparable to women without IUAs., Summary Answer: Reproductive outcomes in women with identified and treated IUAs following recurrent D&C for miscarriage are impaired compared to women without IUAs; fewer ongoing pregnancies and live births are achieved with a prolonged time to a live birth., What Is Known Already: The Prevention of Adhesions Post Abortion (PAPA) study showed that application of auto-crosslinked hyaluronic acid (ACP) gel, an absorbable barrier in women undergoing recurrent D&C for miscarriage resulted in a lower rate of IUAs, 13% versus 31% (relative risk 0.43, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.83), lower mean adhesion score and significant less moderate to severe IUAs. It is unclear what the impact is of IUAs on long-term reproductive performance., Study Design, Size, Duration: This was a follow-up of the PAPA study, a multicenter randomized controlled trial evaluating the application of ACP gel in women undergoing recurrent D&C for miscarriage. All included women received a diagnostic hysteroscopy 8-12 weeks after randomization to evaluate the uterine cavity and for adhesiolysis if IUAs were present. Here, we present the reproductive outcomes in women with identified and treated IUAs versus women without IUAs, 46 months after randomization., Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: Between December 2011 and July 2015, 152 women with a first-trimester miscarriage with at least one previous D&C, were randomized for D&C alone or D&C with immediate intrauterine application of ACP gel. Participants were approached at least 30 months after randomization to evaluate reproductive performance, obstetric and neonatal outcomes and cycle characteristics. Additionally, the medical files of all participants were reviewed. Main outcome was ongoing pregnancy. Outcomes of subsequent pregnancies, time to conception and time to live birth were also recorded., Main Results and the Role of Chance: In women pursuing a pregnancy, 14/24 (58%) ongoing pregnancies were recorded in women with identified and treated IUAs versus 80/89 (90%) ongoing pregnancies in women without IUAs odds ratio (OR) 0.18 (95% CI 0.06 to 0.50, P-value <0.001). Documented live birth was also lower in women with IUAs; 13/24 (54%) with versus 75/89 (84%) without IUAs, OR 0.22 (95% CI: 0.08 to-0.59, P-value 0.004). The median time to conception was 7 months in women with identified and treated IUAs versus 5 months in women without IUAs (hazard ratio (HR) 0.84 (95% CI 0.54 to 1.33)) and time to conception leading to a live birth 15 months versus 5.0 months (HR 0.54 (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.97)). In women with identified and treated IUAs, premature deliveries were recorded in 3/16 (19%) versus 4/88 (5%) in women without IUAs, P-value 0.01. Complications were recorded in respectively 12/16 (75%) versus 26/88 (30%), P-value 0.001. No differences were recorded in mean birth weight between the groups., Limitations, Reasons for Caution: In the original PAPA study, randomization was applied for ACP gel application. Comparing women with and without IUAs is not in line with the randomization and therefore confounding of the results cannot be excluded. IUAs, if visible during routine hysteroscopy after randomization were removed as part of the study protocol; the influence of IUAs on reproductive outcome may therefore be underestimated. Women undergoing a recurrent D&C for miscarriage were included, a specific group likely to generate clinically significant adhesions. The findings should therefore not be generalized to all women undergoing D&C for miscarriage., Wider Implications of the Findings: As IUAs have an impact on reproductive performance, even after hysteroscopic adhesiolysis, primary prevention is essential. Expectative and medical management should therefore be considered as serious alternatives for D&C in women with a miscarriage. In case D&C is necessary, application of ACP gel should be considered., Study Funding/competing Interest(s): The original PAPA study (NTR 3120) was an investigator initiated study that was funded by the Foundation for scientific investigation in Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Saint Lucas Andreas Hospital (currently renamed OLVG Oost), SWOGA. The syringes containing ACP gel were received from Anika Therapeutics, the manufacturer of Hyalobarrier® Gel Endo. The current follow-up study was also an investigator-initiated study without funding. The funder and sponsor had no role in the design of this follow-up study, data collection, data analysis, data interpretation, trial design, patient recruitment, writing of the report or any aspect pertinent to the study. ABH, RAL, JAFH and JWRT have no conflict to declare. HAMB reports being a member of safety board research Womed., Trial Registration Number: Netherlands Trial Register NTR 3120., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.)

Objective: To study whether intrauterine application of auto-crosslinked polymers of hyaluronic acid (ACP) gel after dilation and curettage (D&C) improves reproductive outcomes., Design: Follow-up of a prospective randomized trial., Setting: University and university-affiliated teaching hospitals., Patient(s): Women with a miscarriage at <14 weeks' gestation with at least one previous D&C were randomized to D&C plus ACP gel (intervention) or D&C alone (control). A hysteroscopy was performed after 8-12 weeks, and if intrauterine adhesion (IUAs) were encountered, adhesiolysis was executed., Intervention(s): Participants received a questionnaire 30 months after treatment., Main Outcome Measure(s): Ongoing pregnancy and outcome of subsequent pregnancies., Result(s): Ongoing pregnancies were recorded in 74.6% (50/67) of the intervention group versus 67.2% (43/64) of the control group, and in, respectively, 94.3% (50/53) versus 71.7% (43/60) in the women wishing to conceive. The median times to conception leading to a live birth were, respectively, 21.9 versus 36.1 months. Reduced menstrual blood loss was reported in 7.5% (5/67) versus 20.3% (13/64) and dysmenorrhea in 14.9% (10/67) versus 34.4% (22/64), respectively., Conclusion(s): Application of ACP gel following D&C performed after miscarriage seems to have a favorable effect on subsequent reproductive outcomes in women with at least one previous D&C. Given the fact that the study was not powered for reproductive outcomes, the data should be interpreted with caution. The effect may be underestimated due to routine removal of IUAs., Dutch Clinical Trial Registry Number: NTR 3120., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To generate guidance for detailed uterine niche evaluation by ultrasonography in the non-pregnant woman, using a modified Delphi procedure amongst European experts., Methods: Twenty gynecological experts were approached through their membership of the European Niche Taskforce. All experts were physicians with extensive experience in niche evaluation in clinical practice and/or authors of niche publications. By means of a modified Delphi procedure, relevant items for niche measurement were determined based on the results of a literature search and recommendations of a focus group of six Dutch experts. It was predetermined that at least three Delphi rounds would be performed (two online questionnaires completed by the expert panel and one group meeting). For it to be declared that consensus had been reached, a consensus rate for each item of at least 70% was predefined., Results: Fifteen experts participated in the Delphi procedure. Consensus was reached for all 42 items on niche evaluation, including definitions, relevance, method of measurement and tips for visualization of the niche. A niche was defined as an indentation at the site of a Cesarean section with a depth of at least 2 mm. Basic measurements, including niche length and depth, residual and adjacent myometrial thickness in the sagittal plane, and niche width in the transverse plane, were considered to be essential. If present, branches should be reported and additional measurements should be made. The use of gel or saline contrast sonography was preferred over standard transvaginal sonography but was not considered mandatory if intrauterine fluid was present. Variation in pressure generated by the transvaginal probe can facilitate imaging, and Doppler imaging can be used to differentiate between a niche and other uterine abnormalities, but neither was considered mandatory., Conclusion: Consensus between niche experts was achieved regarding ultrasonographic niche evaluation. © 2018 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology., (© 2018 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.)

Objective: To examine whether intrauterine application of auto-cross-linked hyaluronic acid (ACP) gel after dilation and curettage (D&C) improves reproductive performance., Design: Multicenter prospective randomized trial., Setting: One university and seven university-affiliated teaching hospitals., Patient(s): A total of 149 women who have experienced a miscarriage at <14 weeks of gestation, with at least one previous D&C for miscarriage or termination of pregnancy, were randomly assigned to either D&C plus ACP gel (intervention group) or D&C alone (control group). A hysteroscopy was performed 8-12 weeks after the procedure. Where intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) were found, adhesiolysis was executed., Intervention(s): Participants received questionnaires 3, 6, and 12 months after the initial D&C procedure with questions regarding menstrual pattern, conception, and reproductive outcome., Main Outcome Measure(s): Reproductive outcomes during the 12 months after the D&C procedure., Result(s): Outcomes were available for 149 women: 77 in the intervention group and 72 in the control group. The conception rates were, respectively, 71% (46/64) and 59.7% (40/67). There was no significant difference in the miscarriage, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth rates. The median times to conception were 5.5 and 7.1 months, respectively., Conclusion(s): Reproductive performance was similar in both groups although there was a significant difference in the prevalence of IUAs. Given the favorable reproductive outcome in this underpowered study and the fact that adhesiolysis was executed, no solid conclusion can be drawn. Future studies are needed to evaluate the effect of ACP gel on fertility and reproductive outcomes., Clinical Trial Registration Number: NTR 3120., (Copyright © 2018 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an innovative ultrasound technique capable of visualizing both the macro- and microvasculature of tissues. In this prospective pilot study, we evaluated the feasibility of using CEUS to visualize the microvasculature of uterine fibroids and compared CEUS with conventional ultrasound. Four women with fibroids underwent gray-scale ultrasound, sonoelastography and power/color Doppler scans followed by CEUS examination. Analysis of CEUS images revealed initial perfusion of the peripheral rim, that is, a pseudo-capsule, followed by enhancement of the entire lesion through vessels traveling from the exterior to the interior of the fibroid. The pseudo-capsules exhibited slight hyper-enhancement, making a clear delineation of the fibroids possible. The centers of three fibroids exhibited areas lacking vascularization, information not obtainable with the other imaging techniques. CEUS is a feasible technique for imaging and quantifying the microvasculature of fibroids. In comparison with conventional ultrasound imaging modalities, CEUS can provide additional diagnostic information based on the microvasculature., (Copyright © 2018 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The aims of this prospective diagnostic evaluation study were (i) to estimate the inter-observer agreement and reproducibility of real-time sonoelastography and real-time gray-scale ultrasound in the measurement of uterine and fibroid volumes; (ii) to evaluate the agreement between real-time gray-scale ultrasound, sonoelastography and magnetic resonance imaging with respect to these outcomes; and (iii) to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of sonoelastography in the diagnosis of uterine pathology on stored sonoelastography and gray-scale cine loops. Women without a history of uterine pathology and with the diagnosis intrauterine fibroids or adenomyosis were included. All participants underwent gray-scale ultrasound, sonoelastography and magnetic resonance imaging. Compression sonoelastography was found to have high inter-observer and inter-method agreement for the measurement of uterine and fibroid volumes. The addition of sonoelastography to gray-scale ultrasound seems to be useful in the differentiation between fibroids, adenomyosis and normal uteri as reflected by an increase in accuracy and diagnostic agreement., (Copyright © 2018 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of an internet-based perioperative care programme for patients following gynaecological surgery for benign disease., Design: Stepped-wedge cluster randomised controlled trial., Setting: Secondary care, nine hospitals in the Netherlands, 2011-2014., Participants: 433 employed women aged 18-65 years scheduled for hysterectomy and/or laparoscopic adnexal surgery., Interventions: An internet-based care programme was sequentially rolled out using a multifaceted implementation strategy. Depending on the implementation phase of their hospital, patients were allocated to usual care (n=206) or the care programme (n=227). The care programme included an e-health intervention equipping patients with tailored personalised convalescence advice., Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcome was duration until full sustainable return to work (RTW). The degree of implementation of the care programme was evaluated at the level of the patient, healthcare provider and organisation by indicators measuring internet-based actions by patients and providers., Results: Median time until RTW was 49 days (IQR 27-76) in the intervention group and 62 days (42-85) in the control group. A piecewise Cox model was fitted to take into account non-proportionality of hazards. In the first 85 days after surgery, patients receiving the intervention returned to work faster than patients in the control group (HR 2.66, 95% CI 1.88 to 3.77), but this effect was reversed in the small group of patients that did not reach RTW within this period (0.28, 0.17 to 0.46). Indicators showed that the implementation of the care programme was most successful at the level of the patient (82.8%) and professional (81.7%)., Conclusions: Implementation of an internet-based care programme has a large potential to lead to accelerated recovery and improved RTW rates following different types of gynaecological surgeries., Trial Registration Number: NTR2933; Results., Competing Interests: Competing interests: JRA reports a chair in insurance medicine paid by the Dutch Social Security Agency, and he is a stockholder of Evalua. JAFH reports grants from Samsung, Gideon Richter and Celonova, outside the submitted work. HAMB reports grants from Olympus and personal fees from Nordic Farma, during the conduct of the study. JRA and JAFH intend to set up a spin-off company concerning the implementation of a mobile application concerning the ikherstel intervention in the Netherlands. The remaining authors have nothing to disclose., (© Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.)

Objectives: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of an internet-based perioperative care programme compared with usual care for gynaecological patients., Design: Economic evaluation from a societal perspective alongside a stepped-wedge cluster-randomised controlled trial with 12 months of follow-up., Setting: Secondary care, nine hospitals in the Netherlands, 2011-2014., Participants: 433 employed women aged 18-65 years scheduled for a hysterectomy and/or laparoscopic adnexal surgery., Intervention: The intervention comprised an internet-based care programme aimed at improving convalescence and preventing delayed return to work (RTW) following gynaecological surgery and was sequentially rolled out. Depending on the implementation phase of their hospital, patients were allocated to usual care (n=206) or to the intervention (n=227)., Main Outcome Measures: The primary outcome was duration until full sustainable RTW. Secondary outcomes were quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), health-related quality of life and recovery., Results: At 12 months, there were no statistically significant differences in total societal costs (€-647; 95% CI €-2116 to €753) and duration until RTW (-4.1; 95% CI -10.8 to 2.6) between groups. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for RTW was 56; each day earlier RTW in the intervention group was associated with cost savings of €56 compared with usual care. The probability of the intervention being cost-effective was 0.79 at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) of €0 per day earlier RTW, which increased to 0.97 at a WTP of €76 per day earlier RTW. The difference in QALYs gained over 12 months between the groups was clinically irrelevant resulting in a low probability of cost-effectiveness for QALYs., Conclusions: Considering that on average the costs of a day of sickness absence are €230, the care programme is considered cost-effective in comparison with usual care for duration until sustainable RTW after gynaecological surgery for benign disease. Future research should indicate whether widespread implementation of this care programme has the potential to reduce societal costs associated with gynaecological surgery., Trial Registration Number: NTR2933; Results., Competing Interests: Competing interests: JRA reports a chair in Insurance Medicine paid by the Dutch Social Security Agency, and he is a stockholder of Evalua. JAFH reports grants from Samsung, Gideon Richter and Celonova outside the submitted work. HAMB reports grants from Olympus and personal fees from Nordic Farma during the conduct of the study. JRA and JAFH are planning to set up a spin-off company concerning the implementation of a mobile application concerning the ikherstel intervention in the Netherlands., (© Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.)

Aim: To study changes in a ceasarean section (CS) scar during the first year after a CS using gel installation sonography (GIS)., Methods: Proof-of-concept study, prospective cohort study. Twenty women who delivered by their first CS were evaluated by both transvaginal sonography and GIS 2 months and 1 year after CS. A niche was defined as an anechogenic space at the uterine caesarean scar with a depth >2 mm. The primary outcome was any change in the thickness of the residual myometrium (RMT) as evaluated by GIS., Results: Mean RMT changed in time from 11.9 mm at 2 months to 6.5 mm at 12 months after the CS (p < 0.001). Niche prevalence did not change. The adjacent myometrium (AM) reduced from 15 to 12.4 mm (p = 0.04). The ratio between RMT and AM with GIS decreased from 0.80 at 2 months to 0.54 at 12 months (p = 0.002)., Conclusion: RMT thickness, the adjacent myometium and the ratio between the RMT and AM reduces from 2 to 12 months after a CS. The prevalence did not change. This needs to be taken into account when deciding on the timing of niche measurement and the interpretation of the RMT., (© 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Objectives: To investigate the accuracy and reliability of 3-dimensional (3D) transvaginal sonography in classifying submucous fibroids using the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics PALM-COEIN (polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy and hyperplasia, coagulopathy, ovulatory dysfunction, endometrial, iatrogenic, and not yet classified) classification and protrusion (percent) compared to 2-dimensional (2D) transvaginal sonography, 2D saline infusion sonography, and 3D saline infusion sonography, using hysteroscopy as a reference test., Methods: A prospective cohort pilot study was performed among 14 consecutive patients undergoing hysteroscopic surgery, preceded by routine sonography (2D transvaginal sonography, 2D saline infusion sonography, 3D transvaginal sonography, and 3D saline infusion sonography)., Results: The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for 2D transvaginal sonography versus hysteroscopy was 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06, 0.90) compared to 0.94 (95% CI, 0.83, 0.98) for 2D saline infusion sonography. The ICCs for 3D transvaginal sonography versus hysteroscopy were 0.69 (95% CI, 0.03, 0.90 [investigator A]) and 0.55 (95% CI, -0.48, 0.86 [investigator B]). The ICCs for 3D saline infusion sonography versus hysteroscopy were 0.94 (95% CI, 0.81, 0.98 [investigator A]) and 0.87 (95% CI, 0.60, 0.96 [investigator B]). Interobserver agreement of 3D transvaginal sonography was 0.81 (95% CI, 0.43, 0.94) compared to 0.86 (95% CI, 0.56, 0.96) for 3D saline infusion sonography., Conclusions: In these preliminary data, 3D transvaginal sonography was not as accurate as 2D or 3D saline infusion sonography and was not more accurate than 2D transvaginal sonography. There was moderate interobserver agreement for 3D transvaginal sonography. There might be room for improvement, as 3D transvaginal sonography is more accurate when endometrial thickness increases. Further study is warranted to evaluate in which patients saline infusion sonography eventually can be obviated., (© 2017 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.)

The technique of a laparoscopic niche resection is described in ten steps and alternative steps for future studies are discussed., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The research objective of the current systematic literature review is to classify the laparoscopic niche repair according to the IDEAL framework of 'innovation stages' and to recommend the required research setting to facilitate safe and properly timed implementation of the technique. In doing so, we are also able to evaluate the practical applicability of the IDEAL framework. A systematic search of the available literature on laparoscopic niche repair was performed in PubMed, Embase, and the Wiley/Cochrane library. Articles were classified according to the IDEAL framework and recommendations were given on additional required research before the technique can be safely implemented. Practical applicability of the IDEAL framework was also evaluated. Introduction of laparoscopic niche repair matches Idea (1) and Development (2a), according to the stages of IDEAL framework, although most studies are retrospective and complications have not been registered structurally in a considerable number of the articles. As feasibility and safety have been more or less established and surgery has been further developed we enter stage 2b (Exploration) and need prospective trials preferably comparing the effectiveness of laparoscopic niche repair to expectant management, the current standard care. Available studies were classified with the use of the IDEAL framework, achieving an overall IDEAL stage to be 2a Development. As clinical outcomes, though poorly registered, have been substantially improved, laparoscopic niche repair needs to be carried forward by more advanced study designs., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To study the prevalence of hysteroscopically evaluated disruptions of the integrity of the uterine wall ('niches') in women with and without a previous cesarean section., Study Design: A prospective cohort study was performed in a teaching hospital in the Netherlands. Women seeking hysteroscopic sterilization were included. A hysteroscopic evaluation of the anterior wall of the uterus and cervix to identify the existence of disruptions (niches) was performed in a standard manner. Primary outcome was the presence of a uterine niche, defined as any visible defect, disruption, or concavity (gap) in the anterior wall. Secondary outcome was to develop a registration form of niche features for hysteroscopic evaluation., Results: In total, 713 women were included, 603 without and 110 with a previous cesarean section. In women with a previous cesarean Section 83 (75%) niches were observed using hysteroscopy. Anterior wall disruptions were not observed in women without a cesarean section. The following niche features were identified and incorporated in a registration form: polyps, cysts, myometrium defect, fibrotic tissue, (abnormal) vascular pattern, lateral branches, mucus production inside the defect, and bleeding., Conclusion: In a prospective cohort study among women undergoing hysteroscopic sterilization, a uterine niche could be detected by hysteroscopy in 75% of women with a previous cesarean section., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To examine whether intrauterine application of auto-crosslinked hyaluronic acid (ACP) gel, after dilatation and curettage (D&C), reduces the incidence of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs)., Design: Multicenter; women and assessors blinded prospective randomized trial., Setting: University and university-affiliated teaching hospitals., Patient(s): A total of 152 women with a miscarriage of <14 weeks with at least one previous D&C for miscarriage or termination of pregnancy., Intervention(s): Women were randomly assigned to either D&C plus ACP gel (intervention group) or D&C alone (control group). A follow-up diagnostic hysteroscopy was scheduled 8-12 weeks after the D&C procedure., Main Outcome Measure(s): The primary outcome was the number of women with IUAs and the secondary outcome was the severity of IUAs., Result(s): Outcomes were available for 149 women: 77 in the intervention group and 72 in the control group. The IUAs were observed in 10 (13.0%) and 22 women (30.6%), respectively (relative risk, 0.43; 95% confidence interval 0.22-0.83). Mean adhesion score and the amount of moderate-to-severe IUAs were significantly lower in the intervention group according to the American Fertility Society (AFS) and European Society of Gynecological Endoscopy classifications systems of adhesions., Conclusion(s): Intrauterine application of ACP gel after D&C for miscarriage in women with at least one previous D&C seems to reduce the incidence and severity of IUAs but does not eliminate the process of adhesion formation completely. Future studies are needed to confirm our findings and to evaluate the effect of ACP gel on fertility and reproductive outcomes., Clinical Trial Registration Number: NTR 3120., (Copyright © 2017 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To estimate the diagnostic accuracy and the interobserver reproducibility of pelvic x-rays in the diagnosis of successful bilateral sterilization with Essure after a 3-month follow-up period., Design: Interobserver study., Setting: Outpatient department of obstetrics and gynecology in a Dutch teaching hospital., Patient(s): Patients with successful bilateral Essure placement., Intervention(s): Hysteroscopic sterilization with Essure and pelvic x-ray and hysterosalpingography after a 3-month follow-up period., Main Outcome Measure(s): Six observers evaluations of 47 pelvic x-rays from 47 patients 3 months after a technical successful bilateral placement of microinserts to estimate the reliability of the sterilization. Diagnostic accuracy of pelvic x-ray per observer in detecting incorrectly positioned microinserts was expressed in terms of sensitivity and specificity, with hysterosalpingography as the reference strategy. Reproducibility of the interpretation of the pelvic x-ray was expressed as kappa-values., Result(s): The sensitivity and specificity for x-rays read by gynecologists was 0.67 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.29-0.96) and 0.79 (95% CI, 0.58-1.00) and for radiologists 1.0 and 0.5 (95% CI, 0.36-0.64). The interobserver agreement in reliability of pelvic x-ray of hysteroscopic sterilization assessment with Essure ranged from slight (kappa-value=0.09) for gynecologists to moderate (kappa-value=0.52) for radiologists., Conclusion(s): Test characteristics of pelvic x-ray as the imaging technique to assess the position of the Essure microinserts and tubal patency were poor, as was the reproducibility, particularly if gynecologists performed the evaluation. We do not recommend the use of pelvic x-ray for the assessment of the positioning of microinserts after hysteroscopic sterilization., (Copyright (c) 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)