About Hysterectomy Surgery

Hysterectomy surgery is the removal of the female uterus. This common procedure is performed daily in the United States. Reasons for a hysterectomy may range from excessive menstrual bleeding to uterine cancer. The procedure is performed by a surgeon who specializes in the field of gynecology. Today there is threes different techniques for performing a hysterectomy.

Types

• There are basically three types of hysterectomies performed today. The fundamentals are the same, the uterus is removed. The types of procedures merely indicate how the uterus is removed. Each of the three types of hysterectomies has their limitations and indications. The first is the vaginal hysterectomy where the uterus is removed through the vagina. There are no abdominal incisions or scars. The second is the abdominal hysterectomy where the abdominal cavity is entered through an incision to remove the uterus. The third and most recently developed is the laparoscopic hysterectomy where the uterus is removed with the assistance of a telescope and special instruments. Several small incisions on the abdomen is utilized for the laparoscope and instruments. Each of these types will also have certain variations and may actually utilize other types in conjunction with the operation.

Time Frame

• A typical routine hysterectomy will usually take about an hour to an hour and a half to perform. This is dependence on the anatomy, the surgeon's skills, the reason for the hysterectomy and the type that is performed. Patients will usually spend from one to three days in the hospital and then discharged to home. Total recovery time can take up to six to eight weeks.

Effects

• The effects of a hysterectomy are minimal in relationship to quality of life. The problem the patient had before the surgery will be gone. Patients who have had a hysterectomy will be able to return to same normal sexual activity that they experienced before the operation. Patients will not experience abnormal hormonal changes due to the hysterectomy unless the ovaries were removed at the same time.

Considerations

• There are several things that a patient needs to consider when deciding on having a hysterectomy. The first and most important consideration would be the need for the hysterectomy. Patients need to consider the ramifications if the hysterectomy is not performed. They also need to consider any alternative treatments that may help their conditions. The patient then needs to determine if she is healthy enough to survive this major operation. Lastly the patient needs to consider the competency of the surgeon. Patients need to ask questions of the surgeon to determine his/her experience, training and qualifications

Benefits

• The benefits of a hysterectomy should always outweigh the pitfalls. The most important benefit of a hysterectomy is to relieve the symptoms the patient is experiencing. Another benefit could be lifelong birth control, which allows some patients to experience higher sexual pleasures. The elimination of the menstrual period of the woman is usually a great benefit of a hysterectomy. Lastly, in the case of cancer, the ultimate benefit is the saving of the patient's life.