Information on Hysterectomy Surgery
A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus, usually because of a gynecological illness or problem. The ovaries, fallopian tubes and cervix can also be removed but are not always.
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Function
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Hysterectomies are often performed because of certain types of cancer, fibroids or endometriosis, especially in women who are finished childbearing.
Frequency
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Hysterectomies are the second most frequently performed surgery, after cesarean sections, in the United States. In 1985, 724,000 hysterectomies were performed. The number has fallen somewhat since.
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Types
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The most common type of hysterectomy is open surgery, in which the uterus is removed through a large incision in the abdomen.
Better Methods
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There are now several less invasive methods to remove the uterus: vaginal surgery, laproscopic surgery and robotically assisted surgery. Unfortunately, many doctors do not have the skills to perform these technically difficult operations.
Time Frame
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Recovery times for hysterectomies vary, depending on how the operation is performed. Open surgeries require 3 or 4 days in the hospital and a 6-week recovery. With less-invasive procedures, patients often have a 1-day hospital stay and can return to work in 2 weeks.
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References
- Da Vinci Surgery
- Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom; Christiane Northrup; 1998
