Gestational trophoblastic disease: a study of mode of evacuation and subsequent need for treatment with chemotherapy.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess whether there was a change in the mode of evacuation of GTD over two time periods and to assess whether mode of evacuation influenced the subsequent need for chemotherapy.

METHODS

A retrospective case note study of 4257 cases between 1986 and 1996, at a screening and treatment center managing GTD, was performed.

RESULTS

Between the time periods 1986-1989 and 1990-1996 there was significant change in the mode of evacuation to suction curettage. The mode of evacuation was significant in determining the need for chemotherapy. The highest rate of chemotherapy was associated with medical methods of evacuation.

CONCLUSIONS

Suction curettage is a safe method of uterine evacuation in GTD and its usage has increased with time. Medical methods of uterine evacuation are associated with higher rates of chemotherapy. This is probably due to a higher rate of incomplete evacuation. Medical methods of evacuation should not be used in cases of complete hydatiform mole.