There are times when a hysterectomy is a must in order to deal with medical conditions that can be quite serious. A hysterectomy can be performed in different ways, but the main purpose is to remove the uterus, and at times, the ovaries as well.
It is an extremely common procedure that is used to treat such conditions as severe or abnormal vaginal bleeding, pre-cancerous conditions found in the cervix, uterine fibroids, severe endometriosis, uterine prolapsed, pelvic relaxation, and cancer. In all of these situations, the procedure is often a must in order to protect the health of the patient.
When your doctor determines that a hysterectomy is the proper treatment for you, then you will need to discuss the types that are currently available.
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Laparoscopic surgery is a non-invasive method performing a hysterectomy. During this procedure, a light and very small instrument will be threaded through small incisions in the belly.
The benefits to this procedure include small incisions for less pain during recovery. However, this procedure becomes significantly more difficult in cases in which cancer has been found, especially cervical cancer.
Robotic Surgery
Robotic hysterectomy is the newest, most technologically advanced non-invasive method of any type of surgical procedure. The procedure makes use of small incisions and a robot controlled device. The surgeon can have the most exact control possible throughout the procedure. The advantage is much lower risk to the patient (when compared to traditional open methods) and the most precise removal of tissues.
Robotic hysterectomies can be used for a variety of different conditions, including cancer. This allows the doctor to have precise control over what tissue is removed and what is not.
Vaginal Hysterectomy
In a some cases, a vaginal hysterectomy may be performed. This procedure involves removal of the uterus through the vagina. Some women prefer this method since it is less invasive. However, its use is limited by factors such as uterine size, previous surgery and other factors such as the shape and size of the pelvis.
Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
This procedure is the most invasive. It involves a large surgical incision in which the doctor will remove everything: the uterus and the cervix as well as the ovaries in some cases. Because it is so invasive, the procedure is discouraged in all except certain situations, including:
- ovarian cancer
- large fibroids in the uterus (large enough to preclude laparoscopy or robotic removal)
Talk to your doctor
If your doctor determines that you need a hysterectomy, then it is important for you to go over your options and determine which would be best for your own condition. Not all hysterectomy options are right for each case, so make sure you go over the details with your physician.