Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases

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Peer-review bimonthly medical journal

Editor-in-Chief

Eduard K. Ailamazyan, MD, PhD, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences

Publisher

About

The Journal has been issued since 1887. It is the first scientific journal in Russia for obstetricians and gynecologists. For over a century, the Journal regularly covers the latest achievements of Russian science.

Journal of Obstetrics and Women's Diseases, a Gold Open Access journal, publishes six volumes per year. Additionally, the Journal will publish occasional special issues featuring selected papers from major conferences.

Journal Topics

Journal of Obstetrics and Women's Diseases is a scientific and practical peer-reviewed medical journal, which discusses the most pressing health issues:

  • reproductive health;
  • results of clinical and sociological research;
  • current problems in perinatal obstetrics;
  • issues of gynecological endocrinology, pregravid preparation, and family planning;
  • actual problems in operative gynecology;
  • diagnostics and therapy of reproductive tract infections;
  • advances in clinical genetics and prenatal diagnosis of hereditary and congenital diseases, immunology, and pathology;
  • new and important information and recommendations for the practical physicians (introduction of modern diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, the use of effective drugs, etc.);
  • impact of harmful environmental and production factors on the female reproductive system.

Journal Mission

The main mission of the Journal is to provide new scientific and technical information, to promote scientific knowledge, to help obstetricians and gynecologists to choose the best methods of diagnosis and treatment, and to help improve their skills.

The publications of the Journal are of interest to a wide range of scholars in the field of obstetrics, gynecology, reproduction, genetics, pathology, and immunology of reproduction, as well as for medicine and biology tutors and students.

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Vol 74, No 4 (2025)

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Original study articles

Experience of using ovarian stimulation protocol with dienogest in patients with infertility and endometriosis
Gorelova I.V., Makolkin A.A., Polyakova L.I., Chernoshtan K.V., Mosyagin V.B., Arnt O.S., Efimova A.A.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Endometriosis is most often characterized by two main clinical symptoms, namely, pelvic pain and infertility. Hormonal therapy may be prescribed to reduce the recurrence of the disease after surgical treatment and to relieve pain. It in most cases is incompatible with pregnancy planning and infertility treatment in in vitro fertilization programs. Currently, a protocol with various gestagens has been described for ovarian stimulation applicable in programs with cryopreservation of all embryos. However, there is scarce data on the use of such a protocol with dienogest that is widely used in the treatment of endometriosis.

AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of using a protocol of assisted reproductive technology with dienogest in patients with endometriosis and infertility.

METHODS: This retrospective single-center cohort study included patients aged 18 to 45 years with infertility and endometriosis confirmed by surgical treatment or imaging methods (magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound). The included couples underwent cycles of assisted reproductive technology with ovarian stimulation: with dienogest 2 mg/day continuously, with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists. All obtained blastocysts were cryopreserved by vitrification. Transfer of thawed embryos was performed in a modified natural cycle or with hormone replacement therapy. We assessed the frequency of obtaining embryos suitable for cryopreservation and euploid (according to the results of preimplantation genetic testing), as well as the frequency of pregnancy and its outcome. When assessing safety, side effects of the drugs used and the frequency of complications were monitored.

RESULTS: 49 couples underwent 80 cycles of assisted reproductive technology with ovarian stimulation: dienogest was used in group 1 (n = 29); protocol with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists in group 2 (n = 9); and protocol with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists in group 3 (n = 42). All obtained blastocysts were cryopreserved by vitrification (162 embryos in total). The average age of the patients was 37.99 ± 4.50 years. In group 3, women more often reported local adverse reactions after the introduction of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists (p = 0.021). The study groups did not differ in the frequency of other adverse reactions such as abdominal pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, and headache (p = 0.823). The results of ovarian stimulation were comparable between all the study groups. In total, 31 embryo transfers were performed. The clinical pregnancy rate was 35.5% (95% confidence interval 19.2–54.6): 75.0% in group 1, 33.3% in group 2, and 20.0% in group 3 (p = 0.023). No differences were found in the analysis of pregnancy outcomes between the study groups (p = 0.118). The groups did not differ in the frequency of preimplantation genetic testing (p = 0.153) and embryo quality (p = 0.82).

CONCLUSION: The ovarian stimulation protocol with dienogest allows for effective treatment of infertility in patients with endometriosis without discontinuing drug therapy for a long time.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):5-13
pages 5-13 views
The effect of progesterone treatment on natural killer cell functional activity and progesterone-induced blocking factor secretion in pregnant women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss
Davydova A.A., Mikhailova V.A., Chepanov S.V., Zementova M.S., Abashova E.I., Misharina E.V., Shengelia M.O., Olina A.A., Yarmolinskaya M.I., Bespalova O.N., Selkov S.A.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Progesterone is a steroid hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive processes in women. Its decreased secretion can increase the risk of miscarriage. Progesterone-induced blocking factor is a protein that acts as a mediator of progesterone’s effects. In cases of spontaneous miscarriages, the serum concentration of this protein is lower than during normal pregnancies. It is believed that progesterone-induced blocking factor may affect the functional activity of natural killer cells, which are essential for early pregnancy development. However, studies that thoroughly evaluate the effects of different forms of progesterone on natural killer cell functional activity in reproductive failure are lacking.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of micronized progesterone and dydrogesterone on the functional activity of natural killer cells and progesterone-induced blocking factor levels in pregnant women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss.

METHODS: The levels of progesterone and progesterone-induced blocking factor were measured in the peripheral blood serum of pregnant women with a history of miscarriage who received micronized progesterone (group 1) or dydrogesterone (group 2). We also assessed the content of natural killer cells in the peripheral blood, their functional activity as measured by the CD107a degranulation marker, and their cytotoxic activity against JEG-3 trophoblast cells. The parameters were measured twice: at 8–10 weeks (first visit) and 13–15 weeks (second visit).

RESULTS: At the first visit, group 1 showed lower cytotoxicity of natural killer cells compared to group 2 (p = 0.018). Both groups showed an increase in progesterone levels at the second visit compared to the first visit. Against the background of micronized progesterone administration, we observed an increase in PC-induced activated CD107a+ natural killer cells (p = 0.019). At the second visit, a negative correlation was found in group 1 between progesterone levels and the cytotoxic effect of natural killer cells on trophoblast cells (r = −0.94, p = 0.008). A similar correlation was found in group 2 between progesterone levels and the content of PC-induced activated CD107a+(i) natural killer cells (r = −0.724, p = 0.044). We observed no changes in the blood serum concentration of progesterone-induced blocking factor in the study groups.

CONCLUSION: The effects of micronized progesterone and dydrogesterone preparations on the functional activity of natural killer cells in pregnant women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss have been established. Research into the effects of progesterone preparations on production of pregnancy-induced blocking factor and the functional activity of natural killer cells could lead to the pathologically justified use of this type of treatment to prevent miscarriage in women with recurrent pregnancy loss.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):14-24
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Staphylococcus aureus Adhesion to Titanium and Polypropylene Medical Implants: A Comparative Study
Ivanov O.A., Bezhenar V.F., Tetz V.V., Palastin P.M., Kardava K.M., Pankratov D.L., Nikitina A.P.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Infectious complications associated with the use of medical implants pose a significant challenge, particularly for materials prone to bacterial colonization and biofilm formation. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most critical pathogens responsible for implant-associated infections. The physicochemical properties of implant surfaces, such as roughness, hydrophobicity, and chemical composition, influence bacterial adhesion. Currently, there is insufficient comparative data on Staphylococcus aureus adhesion to different materials used in gynecological practice, including polypropylene and titanium. Studying this process is essential for reducing the risk of infectious complications and optimizing implant properties.

AIM: The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of Staphylococcus aureus adhesion to titanium and polypropylene implants, assessing the impact of their physicochemical characteristics on bacterial attachment.

METHODS: This experimental comparative in vitro study examined two types of medical mesh implants made of polypropylene (Gynemesh PS, Johnson & Johnson, USA) and titanium (Titanium Silk, Elastic Titanium Implants Ltd., Russia). To assess the adhesive properties, a daily culture of Staphylococcus aureus VT209 was incubated with implant samples at 37 ℃ for 1 hour. After washing, bacterial adhesion was quantitatively assessed using culture-based methods. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were employed to analyze surface microstructure and chemical composition.

RESULTS: Quantitative adhesion levels of Staphylococcus aureus to titanium and polypropylene meshes were similar (p > 0.05); however, bacterial distribution patterns differed. Polypropylene implants showed uniform bacterial adhesion, whereas titanium implants exhibited localized bacterial concentration at the edges. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed surface roughness and microdefects at the edges of titanium implants, likely contributing to increased bacterial adhesion. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis indicated differences in chemical composition between central and edge regions of titanium implants, with edge areas containing additional elements (carbon, oxygen, fluorine, iron), possibly introduced during mechanical processing and oxidation.

CONCLUSION: While the overall bacterial adhesion levels on titanium and polypropylene implants were comparable, the observed differences in bacterial distribution suggest an increased risk of infection in mechanically processed titanium areas. Further research is needed to explore surface modification strategies for titanium implants to minimize bacterial adhesion, including improved surface treatments and antimicrobial coatings. These findings may contribute to the development of safer medical implants and a reduction in implant-associated infections.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):25-34
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The potential for enhancing the efficacy of treatment for exacerbations of chronic recurrent uncomplicated cystitis in women: preliminary results from a randomized multicenter clinical trial
Kira E.F., Khodyreva L.A., Bernikov A.N., Kuzmenko A.V.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Chronic recurrent cystitis is a significant problem for women, affecting both patients and healthcare providers due to the challenges in its treatment. This condition crucially reduces the quality of life for patients, causing physical and emotional distress, while leading to decreased social and sexual functioning, self-esteem, and work capacity. It is worth noting that the ineffectiveness of standard antibiotic regimens is frequently associated with antimicrobial resistance, contributing to recurrent infections. Currently, there is an ongoing global effort to develop alternative or adjuvant antibiotic treatments for this condition.

AIM: The aim of this placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using Wobenzym in combination with standard therapy in patients with acute exacerbations of chronic recurrent uncomplicated cystitis.

METHODS: A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled multicenter clinical trial was conducted. All patients received standard therapy for exacerbations of chronic recurrent cystitis, which included 3 g fosfomycin orally for 2 days. As adjuvant therapy, the women received Wobenzym or placebo, 5 tablets 3 times daily for 12 weeks. Each patient was scheduled for 7 visits over a 219-day period.

RESULTS: In total, 642 women aged 20–49 years underwent primary screening for exacerbation of chronic recurrent cystitis. Of these, 640 individuals were randomly assigned to two representative comparison groups: Wobenzym (n = 320) and placebo (n = 320). In the Wobenzym group, repeated exacerbations of chronic recurrent uncomplicated cystitis were observed in 12.50% (95% confidence interval 9.32–16.57) of patients compared to the placebo group, where 24.53% (95% confidence interval 20.12–29.54) of patients had exacerbations (p = 0.00014). Among patients with recurrent infectious inflammatory process, 29 mild adverse events were recorded: 4 in the Wobenzym group and 25 in the placebo group.

CONCLUSION: Preliminary data obtained demonstrate the high efficacy and safety of oral enzyme combination therapy as an adjuvant treatment for chronic recurrent cystitis. Given the frequency of relapses, demographic significance of complications, and the specific course of infectious and inflammatory conditions, Wobenzym may become an important component in the treatment of genitourinary infections.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):35-44
pages 35-44 views
Follicular fluid lipid profile assessment using MALDI mass spectrometry
Mahmadalieva M.R., Ryzhov J.R., Gladchuk A.S., Podolskaya E.P., Shustov E.B., Lesik E.A., Komarova E.M., Ishchuk M.A., Sagurova Y.M., Tapilskaya N.I., Gzgzyan A.M., Kogan I.Y.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Fatty acids are important components of the oocyte microenvironment, exhibiting both pro-inflammatory and lipotoxic effects as well as anti-inflammatory effects depending on the presence and quantity of unsaturated bonds. Changes in the lipid profile of follicular fluid in obese patients may be a mechanism that leads to a decrease in oocyte competence and pregnancy rate in assisted reproductive technology programs. However, the available literature data is fragmentary and contradictory, which dictates the need for further research.

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the lipid profile of follicular fluid in patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology programs with ovarian stimulation depending on the body mass index using MALDI (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization) mass spectrometry.

METHODS: This study involved patients undergoing infertility treatment using assisted reproductive technology in a short protocol using gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists. The levels of essential saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were analyzed in the follicular fluid of the first aspirated follicle using MALDI mass spectrometry.

RESULTS: Two study groups were formed out of 138 patients: patients with normal body mass index (n = 38) and patients with overweight and obesity (n = 76). The latter were characterized by higher levels of myristic and stearic acids and lower levels of oleic acid in the follicular fluid. The level of myristic acid in the follicular fluid positively correlated with the body mass index, while the level of oleic acid negatively correlated with this parameter.

CONCLUSION: The data obtained indicate that overweight and obesity are associated with increased levels of saturated myristic and stearic acids in the follicular fluid, which negatively impact folliculogenesis, as well as a decrease in the level of monounsaturated oleic acid in the follicular fluid, which is able to compensate for the lipotoxic effects of saturated fatty acids.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):45-54
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Clinical data banking in obstetrics—advantages and disadvantages of the strategy using the example of preterm birth risk modeling in multiple pregnancies
Pachuliia O.V., Shipitsyna E.V., Sazonova A.P., Nasykhova Y.A., Bespalova O.N., Glotov A.S.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Despite technological advancements, the key resource for predicting obstetric complications remains the collection and analysis of clinical data. Risk stratification is crucial in obstetrics, enabling tailored antenatal care and preventive measures to reduce preterm birth rates. This is particularly important in multiple pregnancies, where preterm birth occurs in 40%–60% of cases, which causes a high risk of developing organic and functional disorders, leading to long-term disabilities and social challenges for children.

AIM: The aim of this study was to develop preterm birth risk prediction models for multiple pregnancies using clinical data and to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of data banking.

METHODS: This retrospective single-center case-control study was conducted using a registry of 630 dichorionic twin deliveries (RU2024621911 as of May 3, 2024). All cases were characterized by 212 clinical parameters, with a new approach to identifying promising areas for collecting biological samples of twins being developed.

RESULTS: The study comprised spontaneous preterm deliveries (main group, n = 204) and term deliveries (control group, n = 323). Multifactorial modeling of preterm birth risk in dichorionic twin pregnancy showed that very early preterm birth (<31 weeks) is associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus and cervical insufficiency (good predictive power). Early preterm birth (31–33 weeks) is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus, prior induced abortion, chronic pyelonephritis, and cervical insufficiency (good predictive power). Late preterm birth (>33 weeks) is associated with IVF conception, cholestatic hepatosis, and cervical insufficiency (moderate predictive power).

CONCLUSION: Clinical data registries are valuable for risk modeling, but standalone predictive models may have limitations. Integrating biobanks that combine clinical data with biological samples could enhance prediction accuracy and advance obstetric care.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):55-66
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Human leukocyte antigen–DR isotype (major histocompatibility complex class II) expression in different types of endometriosis
Pechenikova V.A., Pertovskaia N.N., Safronov A.O.
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Disorders of the immune system, which regulates adhesion, invasion, proliferation, apoptosis, and neoangiogenesis, are essential in the development of endometriosis. At the same time, a significant role is assigned to the immunogenetic aspects of the progression of endometriosis, in particular, the influence of major histocompatibility complex, or human leukocyte antigens, on the regulation of the immune system in this disease. However, characteristic features of its expression in different types of endometriosis are poorly understood.

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the human leukocyte antigen–DR isotype (major histocompatibility complex class II) (HLA-DR) expression characteristics in endometrioid heterotopias in different types of endometriosis such as adenomyosis, endometrial ovarian cysts, and extragenital endometriosis.

METHODS: This retrospective study was performed based on morphological and immunohistochemical studies of surgical material. The latter was carried out using the standard avidin-biotin complex method using mouse monoclonal antibodies specific to HLA-DR (class II).

RESULTS: The study included 329 women aged 18 to 47 years who underwent surgical interventions for endometriosis of various organ localizations: 98 cases of internal genital endometriosis (adenomyosis), 196 cases of endometrial ovarian cysts, and 35 cases of extragenital endometriosis (21 cases of postoperative scar endometriosis and 14 cases of endometriosis of various parts of the intestine). Regardless of the organ localization of endometriosis, a clear pattern of HLA-DR (class II) expression was found. HLA-DR positive cells were found in the stroma of adenomyosis foci, in the capsules of endometrial ovarian cysts, and in extragenital heterotopias. They were more common in postoperative scar endometriosis—79 [75; 104], intestinal endometriosis—55 [50; 59], adenomyosis—56 [32; 97], and in endometrial ovarian cysts, their expression value was 14 [10; 63]. The glandular epithelium in endometrial heterotopias with signs of proliferation or secretion was HLA-DR negative in all the studied types of endometriosis—in adenomyosis, postoperative scar endometriosis, and intestinal endometriosis. Positive HLA-DR (class II) expression was found only in the epithelial lining of cystically transformed glands in adenomyosis foci and extragenital sites of endometriosis. The largest number of HLA-DR positive epithelial cells was found in the epithelial lining of endometrial ovarian cysts, the expression intensity being weak in 12.3%, intermediate in 72.3%, and strong in 15.4% of cases.

CONCLUSION: The data obtained suggest that the HLA-DR positive phenotype of endometriosis may reflect a specific morphogenesis and abnormalities in the cell genome associated with chronic inflammation, which is important in the prognosis of the clinical course of the disease. Further comprehensive clinical, morphological, and molecular genetic studies are required.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):67-75
pages 67-75 views

Reviews

Modern possibilities of prevention and diagnosis of adhesive disease in patients after caesarian section
Mozgovaya E.V., Chuprun U.M., Kopteeva E.V., Prokhorova V.S., Bespalova O.N., Kholmatova S.S.
Abstract

This article discusses the relevance of adhesive disease after caesarian section due to the increase in the frequency of repeated operative delivery and the increasing risk of complications during both pregnancy and surgery.

The modern understanding of the pathogenesis of the adhesive process is highlighted in the article. It has been shown that in response to a peritoneal injury, a local inflammatory process is activated and local activation of the coagulation system occurs. In this case, the first few days of the postoperative period are extremely important, as mature fibrous adhesions are subsequently formed, and adhesion formation becomes irreversible.

The effectiveness of surgical, physiotherapeutic and drug-induced methods of treatment and prevention of the adhesion process is evaluated, and their insufficient effectiveness is shown. It is noted that the creation of a barrier between the contacting surfaces in the abdominal cavity is the optimal method for preventing spike formation. The methods of creating an anti-adhesion barrier proposed to date are considered.

The possibilities of non-invasive diagnostics of adhesive disease using ultrasound are shown, with the main ultrasound signs of abdominal adhesions considered. Preoperative ultrasound allows for assessing the risks of repeated surgical intervention and correctly determining the patient’s routing for delivery.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):76-85
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Efficacy and safety endpoints of dienogest treatment of endometriosis: a systematic review
Yarmolinskaya M.I., Andreeva E.N., Bezhenar V.F., Popov A.A., Cherkashina S.A.
Abstract

The synthetic progestogen dienogest has been closely studied in recent years for its therapeutic efficacy in endometriosis. Despite its benign nature, this disease is a serious problem due to its widespread prevalence and negative impact on various aspects of quality of life.

This systematic review analyzed the effectiveness of dienogest treatment using various scales and questionnaires to assess the dynamics of endometriosis symptoms (dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, deep dyspareunia), as well as intestinal and urological symptoms associated with endometriosis. The results of assessing the quality of life and patient satisfaction with dienogest treatment are presented. The endpoints for the efficacy of dienogest therapy included changes in laboratory (CA-125 and anti-Müllerian hormone levels) and instrumental (pelvic and mammary gland ultrasound, pelvic magnetic resonance imaging) examinations. We analyzed the effects of dienogest therapy as preoperative preparation to improve prognosis and postoperative treatment to prevent recurrence of the disease. To determine the safety profile, all adverse effects were recorded, including those related to the mammary glands. Bone mineral density, incidence of abnormal uterine bleeding, and incidence of treatment discontinuation due to adverse reactions were also assessed. Thus, the review covered the main efficacy and safety endpoints of dienogest therapy in women with different endometriosis phenotypes. Based on the results of this systematic analysis, it can be concluded that dienogest therapy for endometriosis is effective and safe. However, a personalized approach is required for selection of optimal therapy.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):86-103
pages 86-103 views

Case report

Recurrent borderline ovarian tumor in a patient of reproductive age
Morozova P.A., Ivasko A.O., Nosov N.A., Protasova A.E., Ulrikh E.A., Zazerskaya I.E.
Abstract

Borderline ovarian tumors account for approximately 20% of epithelial ovarian tumors and are frequently diagnosed in women of reproductive age. Therefore, fertility preservation during treatment of these tumors is of particular importance. Organ-preserving surgeries are the preferred treatment method; however, they are associated with an increased risk of disease recurrence.

The aim of this study was to present a clinical case of managing a patient with recurrent borderline ovarian tumor and to assess the possibilities of preserving reproductive function using organ-preserving approaches.

We report the clinical case of a 36-year-old patient with recurrent serous borderline cystadenoma of the ovary. In 2018, laparoscopic resection of the left ovary was performed, followed by left-sided adnexectomy. Recurrences occurred in 2022 and 2024, requiring repeated surgical interventions. Menstrual function and the possibility of pregnancy planning using assisted reproductive technology were evaluated during follow-up.

Organ-preserving surgeries allowed preservation of the patient’s menstrual function and fertility potential despite multiple tumor recurrences. Timely surgical treatment and careful dynamic monitoring contributed to the absence of severe complications and maintenance of reproductive health.

Organ-preserving treatment methods for borderline ovarian tumors represent an effective approach to fertility preservation in women of reproductive age. Nevertheless, they require individualized treatment strategies and continuous monitoring, taking into account the patient’s reproductive plans and risk of recurrence.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):104-111
pages 104-111 views
Outpatient treatment of recurrent Bartholin’s duct cysts using a Word catheter: a case study
Sudakov D.S., Dymarskaya Y.R., Ponomarenko K.Y., Kuznetsova Y.S.
Abstract

Treatment of Bartholin’s duct cysts and gland abscesses, with the exception of small asymptomatic cysts, is always surgical. The question of the preferred surgical technique remains relevant and has not been fully resolved. Literature data demonstrate the advantage of marsupialization and fistulization using the Word catheter or the Jacobi ring over other techniques.

In this article, we report a clinical case of treating a recurrent Bartholin’s duct cyst in a patient who had undergone three Bartholin’s gland abscess incisions and drainages and one Bartholin’s duct cysts excision (enucleation). Given the multiple recurrences, a decision was made to perform fistulization using a Word catheter, which is a silicone tube with a balloon at one end and a single channel for inflation. The diameter of the catheter with an emptied balloon is 15 Fr (Ch) or 5 mm; the balloon volume is 3 ml; and the catheter length is 55 mm. The catheter is supplied in a sterile package with a disposable #11 scalpel blade, 7.5 cm long, and a disposable 3.0 ml syringe with a 22G (0.7 × 25.4 mm) needle. The catheter’s balloon should be inflated with liquid. When air is used, the balloon deflates and falls out prematurely. The catheter’s in-wound retention time is typically 6–8 weeks. The surgery was performed on an outpatient basis under local infiltration anesthesia with 2.0 ml of 2% lidocaine solution. After the surgery, the patient was prescribed antibacterial therapy with amoxicillin (875 mg) and clavulanic acid (125 mg) orally twice daily. The therapy was discontinued 3 days after the surgery due to the results of bacteriological examination of the discharge from the cyst cavity, which showed no growth of microflora. The pain was relieved within 24 hours after the surgery. The Word catheter drained the cyst cavity perfectly, causing no discomfort, with the patient’s activity not limited. 6 weeks after the surgery, the Word catheter was removed. During that time, a fistula draining the gland had formed. The patient had no relapse of the disease within 6 months after the treatment.

This clinical case demonstrates that the Word catheter is effective in the treatment of recurrent Bartholin’s duct cysts. The advantages of this technique include the following: the procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, it is easy to perform, and it allows for rapid symptom relief and reliable and long-lasting drainage of the cyst cavity.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):112-121
pages 112-121 views

Historical articles

Contribution of urogynecologist Professor Alexander M. Mazhbits to the development of balneology
Andreeva A.V., Baranov A.N., Belykh E.N., Samburov G.O., Chetskaya G.B.
Abstract

Sanatorium and resort business is an integral part of state policy and an important element of the public health system in many countries. Great interest of specialists is shown in the works of the outstanding urogynecologist Professor Alexander M. Mazhbits, who published several works in the first half of the 20th century on the treatment of gynecological patients at resorts, including mud and brine baths.

Professor Alexander M. Mazhbits paid special attention to intravaginal and intrarectal mud therapy for gynecological patients. Later, this method was positively noted at Caucasian resorts (Yessentuki, Kislovodsk, Zheleznovodsk, etc.), in Crimea (Saki), and elsewhere (Moscow, Saratov, Leningrad, etc.).

During his work in Arkhangelsk in the 1950s, the professor continued to study issues of balneology and made a huge contribution to the development of balneology for urogynecological practice.

The main advantage of the professor’s works is that he substantiated the mechanism of action of mud therapy in gynecology with sufficient completeness and objectivity, and formulated reasonable indications for mud therapy in gynecological patients.

At present, modern society is focused on a healthy lifestyle, which considers sanatorium and resort complexes. Using the healing properties of mud and balneological factors, they offer a wide range of additional services such as spa procedures, fitness programs, and dietary nutrition.

In the Russian Federation, health resort business is an integral part of state policy and an important element of the public health system.

Journal of obstetrics and women's diseases. 2025;74(4):122-130
pages 122-130 views