In a recent case study published in the specialist journal Gynecologic Oncology Reports, Italian medics report the first successful prophylactic removal of an ovary via laparoscopy and the innovative diode laser LEONARDO® by biolitec®.

Dr. Luigi Nappi, University of Foggia: "A genetic analysis and the finding BRCA1 called for action. Nearly one in two women with a BRCA1 mutation is prone to develop ovarian cancer until the age of 70. The risk for a woman with BRCA1 or BRCA2 finding to develop breast cancer in the course of her life is even higher."

Amongst gynecologists, the removal of both fallopian tubes is currently considered to be the most effective method to prevent ovarian cancer, especially in women between the age of 35 and 40 respectively when they no longer wish for a child. Due to the preservation of the ovaries, female sex hormones are still available and an early menopause is prevented as well as threatening cardiovascular diseases that can attend it.

Up to now, the conventional excision of the fallopian tubes is a complex procedure and not without complications. With the LEONARDO® laser it is yet possible to remove the tissue minimally invasively after a small incision at the navel and an endoscopic procedure.

The intervention by the Italian surgical team was carried out precisely, gently and effectively at a wavelength of 980nm or 1470nm and took 40 minutes.

As the invisible laser light is coupled with visible red light, the surgeon is able to carry out all necessary steps with utmost precision and to close open vessels by heat without the need for changing instruments.

Complications during or after surgery had not been noticed. The patient received pain medication not until 6 hours after surgery and could leave the clinic one day after the intervention. Dr. Luigi Nappi: "For patients with a BRCA1 diagnosis, minimally invasive interventions with the LEONARDO® laser shall lead to a quicker convalescence after surgery in the future. A welcome side effect is that the incision of no more than 2 cm into the abdomen to insert the endoscope and laser heals quickly and is nearly invisible."