Impact of Surgical Excision of Deep Infiltrating Bowel Endometriosis on Health-Related Quality of Life: Review of Current Literature

Background The aim of this study was to systematically review the impact of surgical excision of deep infiltrating endometriosis involving the bowel, on health-related quality of life, based on the currently available literature. Methods A systematic review was completed of English-language publications in the last 10 years, which had assessed the impact of surgical excision on quality of life in patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis of the bowel using standardized, validated quality-of-life questionnaires. Results Fourteen studies were identified. Standardized questionnaires used to assess the therapeutic impact on quality of life were the SF-36, SF-12, EHP-30, EQ-5D and 15D. Overall, women with bowel endometriosis scored lower on quality-of-life measures than the general population. Regardless of which standardized, validated questionnaire was used, surgical treatment had a positive impact on health-related quality of life. Conclusions Endometriosis, in particular deep infiltrating endometriosis of the bowel, has a profound impact on the quality of life of women diagnosed with the condition. Though surgical excision has a positive short-term impact, studies are needed to assess the long-term impact on quality of life in this lifelong, chronic, recurring condition.