Laparoscopic hysterectomy

What is Hysterectomy? A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus.  Depending on your medical situation, the cervix, ovaries and fallopian tubes may also need to be removed.  Each year 600,000 women in the U.S. undergo a hysterectomy. What types of Hysterectomy are available? There are 3 types depending on the surgical approach: abdominal, vaginal, laparoscopic 60% Abdominal 25% Vaginal 15% Laparoscopic Why are Hysterectomies performed? Fibroids – usually non-cancerous lumps of muscle that can grow in/on the wall of the uterus Abnormal bleeding – menorrhagia – excessive menstrual bleeding metrorrhagia – bleeding from the uterus that is not associated with menstruation Endometriosis – pelvic pain due to uterine tissue growing in places other than the uterus Pelvic support problems – uterine prolapse – the uterus descends from its normal position into the vagina Cancers of the uterus and cervix Ovarian tumors What is Laparoscopy? A type of surgery that avoids a large incision but instead uses very small incisions (dime-size) in the abdomen for placement of advanced surgical devices. A laparoscope, which contains a fiber optic light and a magnifying video camera, is inserted through an incision in the navel to help guide the physician and allow them to see inside the abdomen.  The uterus and possibly other organs are removed in pieces through these tiny incisions in the abdomen. What are the benefits of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy? Leaves a working organ intact – cervix Maintain a pelvic floor support and reduces incontinence Less cutting and tissue manipulation Maintain sexual arousal/orgasm What are the post surgery benefits? Less time in the hospital – 1 day or less Quicker recovery – about 1 week Fewer complications after surgery Less pain and scarring Quick return to normal sexual activity Higher patient satisfaction