Alternate Names: Vaginal hysterectomy; Abdominal hysterectomy; Removal of the uterus

Description:

Hysterectomy is a very common operation. The uterus may be completely removed, partially removed, or may be removed with the tubes and ovaries. A partial hysterectomy is removal of just the upper portion of the uterus, leaving the cervix intact. A total hysterectomy is removal of the entire uterus and the cervix. A radical hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, the tissue on both sides of the cervix (parametrium), and the upper part of the vagina.

A hysterectomy may be done through an abdominal incision (abdominal hysterectomy) or through a vaginal incision (vaginal hysterectomy).

Indications:

Hysterectomy may be recommended for:

• severe, long-term (chronic) infections (pelvic inflammatory disease) that cause pain
• endometriosis, in those cases in which the pain is severe and not responsive to other treatments
• tumors in the uterus
  • uterine fibroids, cancer of the endometrium
  • cancer of the cervix, cancer of the ovary
• severe, long-term (chronic) vaginal bleeding that cannot be controlled by medications
• complications during childbirth (bleeding)

What To Expect After:

Most patients recover completely from hysterectomy. Removal of the ovaries causes immediate menopause and hormone replacement therapy (estrogen) may be recommended.

Convalescence:

The average hospital stay is from 2 to 3 days. Complete recovery may require 2 weeks to 2 months. Recovery from a vaginal hysterectomy is faster than from an abdominal hysterectomy. A catheter may remain in place for several days to help the bladder pass urine. Moving about as soon as possible helps to avoid blood clots in the legs and other problems. Walking to the bathroom as soon as possible is recommended. Normal diet is encouraged as soon as possible after bowel function returns. Avoid lifting heavy objects for a few weeks following surgery. Sexual activities should be avoided for 6 to 8 weeks after a hysterectomy.

Risks:

Risks for any anesthesia are:

• reactions to medications
• problems breathing

Risks for any surgery are:

• bleeding
• infection