The uterus is an important reproductive organ located in the pelvis, which is responsible, among other things, for the absorption of the egg after fertilization, its rooting to create pregnancy, protection of the fetus during it and assistance in childbirth itself.
Hysterectomy surgery is a possible treatment for medical conditions such as uterine fibroids (malignancies) and malignant gynecological diseases. Uterine resection can be performed in different approaches (methods) depending on the condition being treated, your preferences and the discretion of the surgeon.
When is hysterectomy recommended?
Various gynecological conditions may involve the uterus, and its resection can be a treatment for such. These conditions may include fibroids (malignancies), heavy or abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic prolapse or pelvic diseases such as endometriosis (abnormal growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining) or pelvic infection.
In some cases, hysterectomy is part of the treatment for uterine malignancy (cancer) or premalignant condition. These conditions will sometimes require resection of other nearby organs including the fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix.
Together with the surgeon, you will be able to consider the chances and risks of hysterectomy based on the medical condition to be treated, your preferences, your age, your birth planning and your suitability for other treatments.
The course of the surgery
Hysterectomy can be performed in one of three approaches: vaginal approach, abdominal approach or laparoscopic approach.
Each approach has advantages and disadvantages, with the choice of the surgical method being based on, among other things, the extent of the disease, the patient's condition, the preference of the surgeon and the patient, and more.
A vaginal approach is considered the safest and most effective for the patient, and is therefore preferred as the surgical method in cases where it is possible.
On the other hand, there may be situations in which the surgeon's preference is to operate on the abdomen, for example to access the organs adjacent to the uterus. In these cases, an abdominal or laparoscopic approach is preferred, with the latter involving three tiny incisions in the abdomen and the insertion of a camera and surgical tools through them.
The operation is performed under general anesthesia and lasts between one and two hours, but its length can vary according to different approaches and / or additional treatments performed during the operation.
Preparation before surgery
Before the hysterectomy, a medical evaluation must be performed by a gynecologist, which includes a comprehensive examination. You may be asked to perform additional tests such as imaging the pelvis or taking samples from the cervix and / or the uterine cavity itself.
In addition, a preliminary evaluation by an anesthesiologist should be performed. Pre existing conditions, regular medications or known allergies should be reported, if any.
You should be in complete food and liquid fast according to staff instructions.
Recovery after hysterectomy
The rate of recovery depends, among other things, on the approach in which the hysterectomy was performed. The patient should remain under hospitalized observation for at least 1-2 nights after surgery.
The patient may take painkillers to relieve the pain after surgery. Vaginal bleeding may occur for days to weeks after surgery. Exercise should be avoided during the first weeks post surgery. You can consult your doctor about the appropriate time to return to work, exercise and sexual intercourse.
After a hysterectomy, the menstrual cycle discontinues and it is not possible to become pregnant. Uterine resection even without concomitant ovarian resection can lead to premature menopause.
Possible complications
The most common complications after a hysterectomy are bleeding (2.4%), urinary tract damage (1.9%), urinary tract infection (1.6%) or other surgical-related infections. There may also be damage to the gastrointestinal tract adjacent to the area of surgery.
The incidence of complications varies depending on the surgery approach chosen.
We are available to answer any question and to provide additional information. Service and Information Center office hours: Sunday-Thursday 8:00-16:30 / Telephone: 03-3768960 You can also fill in your details in the Contact Form on the website and our representatives will get back to you as soon as possible.