Hysterectomy is the removal of the Uterus.
There are many types of Hysterectomy available
- Open abdominal Hysterectomy, where the surgeon will make an incision in your lower abdomen and remove the uterus. This is one of the most commonly performed surgeries. Compared to other techniques, there will be a pain in the post surgery period. Chances of wound infection and future risk of hernias are more in open procedures compared to other techniques.
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy involves placing 3 to 4 tiny holes in the abdomen and removing the uterus. Since the incision is very small. Recovery time is very fast in laparoscopic surgery. The chance of wound infection and future risk of hernias are very minimal. You can go home the next day of the procedure and resume your normal activities very soon.
- Vaginal Hysterectomy involves removing your uterus through the vaginal route. Since the entire uterus is removed through the vaginal route, you will have no scar on the abdomen. Very few experienced surgeons perform this procedure. You can return home the next day of the procedure and resume your normal activities soon. Compared to open procedures, recovery time is very fast.
- Radical Hysterectomy involves removing the uterus and other surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. It can be performed either open or by laparoscopic approach. This procedure is mainly performed for cancer of the uterus.
What are the indications for hysterectomy?
- Uterine prolapse is when the uterine ligament becomes very weak, and the uterus emerges through your vagina.
- Heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Intermittent heavy bleeding.
- Fibroid uterus causing severe pain and heavy bleeding.
- Cancer of the uterus.
Do all conditions need surgery?
Some of the conditions can be managed by medical treatment. However, surgery will be the choice if your symptoms worsen despite medical treatments.
What will happen to my menstruation cycles after hysterectomy?
As the uterus will be removed during the surgery, you will not have menstrual cycles post surgery.
Laparoscopic or Vaginal Hysterectomy? Which is better?
Both Laparoscopic and Vaginal Hysterectomy is the best choice for hysterectomy. Depending on the size of the uterus and the nature of the disease, your doctor will decide which approach is best for you.
What are the advantages of Vaginal hysterectomy?
- No scar on the abdomen
- One day stay at the hospital
- No future risk of hernias on the abdomen
- Minimal pain
- Recovery is fast
Will my ovaries be removed during hysterectomy?
Ovaries will not be removed for all hysterectomies. Depending on the nature of the disease, your doctor will advise regarding the same.
What are the complications of hysterectomy?
All surgeries have their own benefits and risks.
Complications include
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Urinary tract and urinary bladder injury
- Bowel injury
- Complications related to anaesthesia
Will I have all these complications?
No, you will not experience all these complications. They are very rare. The purpose of explaining the complications is to keep our patients aware, have adequate knowledge of the procedure, and make informed decisions on their own.
Will I gain weight after hysterectomy?
Not all women who undergo hysterectomy will have weight gain. Weight is more common in women who were not able to manage theirs before the procedure. Also, it is more common in the first year after surgery. However, with proper exercise and a nutritious diet, the chances of weight gain are very less.
When can I go home after the procedure?
You are allowed to take a diet 6 hours after surgery and go home the next day after surgery, depending on the nature of your disease, provided you have a good caretaker at home and your vitals are stable.
At Dr.M.R.Santhi Hospital, we are doing Laparoscopic and Vaginal Hysterectomies regularly. You will be in safe hands with state-of-the-art modern theatres and experienced consultants.
