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Read MoreUnderstand how hysterectomy can alleviate your symptoms and what to expect when you have this procedure. Our seasoned gynecologic surgeons can ensure your well-being every step of the way.
What is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the uterus. This procedure treats a range of health conditions, including uterine fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, chronic pelvic pain and certain types of cancer affecting the uterus, cervix or ovaries.
For many, a hysterectomy relieves symptoms that haven't responded to other treatments. These symptoms may include heavy menstrual bleeding, severe pelvic pain, pressure on the bladder or bowel and complications related to uterine prolapse. Depending on your health needs, your doctor may recommend different hysterectomy procedures.
How a Hysterectomy Works
During a hysterectomy, the surgeon removes part or all of the uterus through the abdomen or vagina, sometimes using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery. The approach depends on factors like the reason for surgery, uterus size, and medical history. In laparoscopic procedures, small instruments and a camera are inserted through tiny incisions for precision. Robotic-assisted surgery further enhances precision, reducing recovery time, pain, and complications. Your care team will discuss the best approach for your health and well-being.
Types of Hysterectomy
Total Hysterectomy:
A total hysterectomy surgically removes the entire uterus, including the cervix.
Radical Hysterectomy:
A radical hysterectomy involves removing the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina and surrounding tissues, often for treating gynecologic cancer.
Supracervical Hysterectomy:
A supracervical hysterectomy, or partial hysterectomy, removes the upper part of the uterus, leaving the cervix intact. Your doctor may recommend this procedure for conditions where cervix preservation is possible.
Hysterectomy With Oophorectomy:
In addition to removing the uterus, this procedure also removes one or both ovaries and the fallopian tubes. Your doctor may recommend this procedure to treat or prevent conditions like ovarian cancer or severe endometriosis.
What to Expect When You Have a Hysterectomy
Before the procedure, you'll meet with your care team to discuss preparation, including tests or medications you may need beforehand. Your doctor will administer anesthesia before the procedure begins to ensure you're comfortable throughout. Depending on the type of hysterectomy, the operation can take up to a few hours.
During the procedure, your surgeon carefully separates the uterus from the surrounding tissues and blood vessels before removing it from the body. In laparoscopic hysterectomy, small instruments and a camera are inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen, allowing the surgeon to perform the procedure with precision while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
After surgery, you'll stay in the hospital for monitoring and pain management. With minimally invasive surgery, can often go home the same day. Recovery time varies but often involves a few weeks of rest and avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity. Your doctor will provide personalized guidance for managing pain, caring for incisions and resuming normal activities. Your care team will help you schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and discuss your concerns.
