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Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy Pros & Cons

Laparoscopic hysterectomies are a relatively new way of performing the surgical procedure, and provide minimal discomfort and recovery time for the patient. Supracervical hysterectomies are partial, or subtotal, hysterectomies that leave the cervix intact. Deciding if a hysterectomy is the proper avenue for a woman to take may be difficult. Being aware of the pros and cons of having laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, or LASH, may help you with this important decision.

  1. Cost

    • A big plus side to a LASH procedure is the cost. The overall hospital stay and recovery time when using a laparoscope is much shorter than traditional methods. This reduces resulting medical bills, and many women are able to return to work and normal daily life faster.

    Cervix

    • A LASH will leave the cervix in place, but this could cause future problems. A con of this is after the procedure, the cervix may be more susceptible to conditions such as cancer and cervical dysplasia, and a woman may eventually have to undergo another surgery to remove it. A pro is that by leaving the cervix intact, the vaginal canal will not be shortened, potentially affecting sexual satisfaction.

    Invasiveness

    • A laparoscopic surgery is less invasive than a traditional open surgery. This technique will minimize blood loss and minimize the risk of infection at the incision site--major pros in favor of this technique.

    Avoiding Risk

    • Minimizing risks during any surgical procedure is always a big "pro." Leaving the cervix in place during a hysterectomy minimizes the risk of injury to your ureters, bladder and intestines.

    Scars and Scar Tissue

    • More pros: Because the LASH requires smaller incisions of approximately 1/2 inch, there is less scarring at the incision site(s) than a traditional hysterectomy. Laparoscopic surgery enables your doctor to remove tissue that may be diseased or infected. He is able to remove scar tissue, endometrial tissue and sometimes even large fibroids with greater accuracy and less scarring.

    Reproduction

    • One of the most considered side effects of any type of hysterectomy, including LASH, is that with the removal of the uterus, you will no longer be able to have children. Depending upon lifestyle, age and health, this could be a welcome change in a woman's life, or a change that is unacceptable.

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