Hysterectomy (Laparoscopic, Open, Robotic, Vaginal)

A hysterectomy is surgical procedure to remove the uterus. The uterus is the part of the body that carries a baby when a woman is pregnant. After a hysterectomy, a woman will not be able to get pregnant.

There are four types of hysterectomy:

Vaginal hysterectomy: during a vaginal hysterectomy, the doctor makes an incision inside the vagina and removes the uterus through the vagina.

Laparoscopic hysterectomy: during a laparoscopic hysterectomy, the doctor inserts a small camera and tools through several small incisions in the abdomen. The uterus is removed through one of the abdominal incisions.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy: This is another type of laparoscopic hysterectomy. This surgery are attached to a robot that the doctor controls.

Abdominal hysterectomy: during an abdominal hysterectomy, the doctor makes an incision in the abdomen and removes the uterus through that opening. This is only done if you can't have the other types of hysterectomy. The recovery time is longer for an abdominal hysterectomy.

Indications for Hysterectomy

Abnormal bleeding – Some people have abnormal during their period or between their periods. Abnormal bleeding can lead to a condition called anemia, which can cause several other medical conditions.

Fibroids – Fibroids are tough clumps of tissue that form in the uterus. Fibroids can grow large and press on the organs inside the abdomen. Fibroids can also cause abnormal bleeding.

Pelvic organ prolapse – Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the uterus prolapses down into the vagina.

Cancer or conditions that could lead to cancer – The uterus or the cervix, the organ that separates the uterus and the vagina, can become cancerous. Sometimes it may be necessary to remove the cervix and uterus if there are cells present that are precancerous.

Ongoing pelvic pain – Some people suffer from constant chronic pelvic pain in the area just below the belly button. Chronic pelvic pain can be caused by a condition called endometriosis.

• Risks

• Infection

• Bleeding

In women who have not been through menopause, having the ovaries removed can lead to hot flashes, bone loss, reduced interest in sex, and other problems.

In women who have been through menopause, having the ovaries removed might also increase the risk of health problems, such as heart disease.