Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy involves surgical removal of the uterus and often the cervix. It eliminates the possibility of pregnancy and menstruation. The procedure is performed for various reasons, including cancer, fibroids, abnormal bleeding, and uterine prolapse. Depending on the specific purpose, a hysterectomy may also involve removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and adjacent organs or tissues.
Types of Hysterectomy
There are three types of hysterectomy:
- Supracervical hysterectomy – With this procedure, the cervix is not removed; just the upper portion of the uterus is removed.
- Radical hysterectomy – This surgery is only carried out in cases of cancer. It is necessary to cut off the uterus, a tissue on each side, the cervix, and the upper portion of the vagina.
- Total hysterectomy – In this treatment, the uterus and cervix are both removed.
Why Are Hysterectomy Procedures Performed?
One or more of the following conditions can be treated by a hysterectomy:
- Gynecologic cancer: Hysterectomy is performed for uterine or cervical cancer when other treatment options like radiation and chemotherapy are not sufficient.
- Endometriosis: Hysterectomy may be necessary if medications and conservative surgeries fail to address the condition, where uterine lining tissue grows outside the uterus.
- Fibroids: Hysterectomy can be used to treat fibroids, benign tumors in the uterus, causing symptoms like recurrent bleeding, pelvic discomfort, and bladder pressure.
- Uterine prolapse: Weak tissues and ligaments can cause the uterus to descend into the vagina, leading to pelvic pressure and difficulties with bowel movements. Hysterectomy is performed to address this condition.
- Vaginal bleeding: Hysterectomy may be performed to alleviate painful, irregular, or prolonged periods that do not respond to other treatments.
How Does a Hysterectomy Procedure Work?
The patient having a hysterectomy is put under general anaesthesia. A urinary catheter is inserted via the urethra to the bladder to empty it. Only after surgery is this catheter removed. The abdomen and vagina are cleaned with a sterile solution, and an incision is made in the lower abdomen.
A hysterectomy can be carried out in one of three methods, which are:
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy
- Vaginal hysterectomy
- Abdominal hysterectomy
- Vaginal hysterectomy: The uterus is removed through an incision made in the vagina, resulting in no visible scar.
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy: Small abdominal incisions are made to insert a laparoscope, allowing the surgeon to view the internal organs and perform the hysterectomy using specialized surgical instruments.
- Abdominal hysterectomy: An incision is made in the abdomen, either horizontally along the bikini line or vertically near the belly button. The uterus is then removed, and the incision is closed.
What are the Potential Hysterectomy Complications?
Some complications include:
- Passing urine unintentionally
- Prolapse of the vagina
- Vaginal fistula development
- Persistent discomfort
- Blood clots
- Hemorrhage
- Organ damage in the vicinity
- Infections
Why choose Giggles?
Giggle Hospital for Women And Children Hospital in Vizag is a renowned and state-of-the-art facility dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for gynecological conditions. Our team consists of highly skilled gynecologists and surgeons specializing in the management of gynecological diseases. Our leading experts have extensive experience in performing laparoscopic hysterectomies, ensuring the highest quality of care for our patients.
