Hysterectomy

What is a hysterectomy?

The surgical removal of a woman’s uterus, or womb, is called a hysterectomy. Depending on the reason for surgery, surrounding tissues and other reproductive organs such as the cervix might also be removed.

A traditional, or open, hysterectomy involves a large incision and removal through the abdomen. Many times, however, the surgeon can use less invasive procedures.

Why might you need a hysterectomy?

If you have cancer, you’ll almost certainly need a hysterectomy. Other conditions, often signaled by chronic pain or abnormal bleeding, might also require this surgery:

• Fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Thickening of the uterus
• Uterine prolapse

Even for these conditions, your OB-GYN tries other treatment first. But if these approaches don’t cure your condition or relieve severe symptoms, you might need a hysterectomy.

What are your options for a hysterectomy?

When possible, the team at OB-GYN Associates PC offers minimally invasive procedures. A vaginal hysterectomy, for example, requires a smaller incision than abdominal surgery and leaves no visible scar.

If you receive laparoscopic surgery, your OB-GYN provider makes small incisions in or near your belly button, where tiny surgical tools and a laparoscope are inserted. The laparoscope’s lighted camera allows the surgeon to operate the tools from outside the body while viewing the procedure on a screen.

OB-GYN Associates PC also provides the latest technology in robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci® Surgical System. This cutting-edge method allows the surgeon to manipulate tiny instruments with wrists, which mimic the surgeon’s precise hand movements. Throughout the procedure, the surgeon has a high-definition, 3D view of the inside of the body, while maintaining complete control.

What can you expect after your hysterectomy?

Minimally invasive procedures involve significantly shorter recovery time, less pain, and less blood loss than open surgery. Chances for any complications are low, and scarring is minimal.

With the da Vinci surgery, you may be recuperated in 2-3 days and back to work in a week. Plus, you’ll need minimal pain medication. In one report, 10% of patients needed no pain medication at all.

If you do need a hysterectomy, there’s no need for the long recovery of open surgery. Call the gynecologic surgery specialists at OB-GYN Associates PC today for more details. Or book an online appointment for a consultation.