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Information on Hysterectomy Surgery

A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus, usually because of a gynecological illness or problem. The ovaries, fallopian tubes and cervix can also be removed but are not always.

  1. Function

    • Hysterectomies are often performed because of certain types of cancer, fibroids or endometriosis, especially in women who are finished childbearing.

    Frequency

    • Hysterectomies are the second most frequently performed surgery, after cesarean sections, in the United States. In 1985, 724,000 hysterectomies were performed. The number has fallen somewhat since.

    Types

    • The most common type of hysterectomy is open surgery, in which the uterus is removed through a large incision in the abdomen.

    Better Methods

    • There are now several less invasive methods to remove the uterus: vaginal surgery, laproscopic surgery and robotically assisted surgery. Unfortunately, many doctors do not have the skills to perform these technically difficult operations.

    Time Frame

    • Recovery times for hysterectomies vary, depending on how the operation is performed. Open surgeries require 3 or 4 days in the hospital and a 6-week recovery. With less-invasive procedures, patients often have a 1-day hospital stay and can return to work in 2 weeks.

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