When are hysterectomies performed?
A hysterectomy removes a part or all of the uterus, sometimes along with the ovaries (in a procedure called an “oophorectomy”). They’re typically performed to address specific conditions that cannot be adequately treated with less-aggressive approaches, including:
- large, symptomatic, or recurrent fibroids
- symptomatic endometriosis
- menorrhagia (abnormally heavy periods) or other abnormal periods
- chronic pelvic pain
- uterine prolapse, a condition that occurs when the uterus descends into the vaginal canal
- uterine, cervical or ovarian cancer
Once a hysterectomy has been performed, pregnancy is no longer possible.
How is a hysterectomy performed?
Hysterectomies are performed under general anesthesia using a variety of techniques:
- traditional open incision through the belly to remove the uterus
- minimally-invasive approaches that use several small abdominal incisions to detach the uterus; it is then removed through the vagina
- incisions made through the vaginal canal and removal of the uterus through the vagina
The approach will depend on the underlying condition, the patient’s health, and other factors.
What is a robot-assisted hysterectomy?
Robotic surgery uses surgical robotic cameras, instruments, and computer software to enhance the surgeon’s ability to perform certain aspects of surgery that require a high degree of precision. During a robotic hysterectomy, several small incisions are made to accommodate a camera and surgical instruments. The tiny camera sends highly-detailed, magnified 3D images back to a monitor. The surgeon uses those images to guide the robotic instrument during the procedure. Surgical robots are used in many types of surgery in addition to hysterectomy and typically are associated with less tissue trauma and less bleeding, smaller scars, faster recovery and less discomfort during healing. Still, robotic surgery is not ideal for everyone, and a thorough examination before surgery will help determine if it is the best option.
What is recovery from a hysterectomy like?
Depending on how it is performed, hysterectomy can be completed as a same-day surgery, or may require a one- or two-night stay in the hospital to enable the patient to rest completely during the initial stages of recovery. Sanitary napkins are used to control bleeding that usually occurs within a week to 10 days after the procedure. Tampon use, strenuous activities including exercise, and sexual intercourse will need to be avoided for about six weeks to allow the area to heal and to avoid infection.
