Hysterectomy – Uterus Removal Surgery

Vaginal Hysterectomy: Vaginal hysterectomy is the procedure for removing the uterus through the vaginal route. It provides a faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, and lower cost compared to an abdominal hysterectomy, which requires an incision in the lower abdomen.

The most common reasons for this procedure are uterine prolapse, excessive and heavy menstrual periods, and the presence of fibroids. Not every woman is a suitable candidate for vaginal hysterectomy; it can be challenging if the vagina is enlarged or if there haven’t been vaginal deliveries.

After the surgery, potential complications may include bleeding, infection, pelvic hematoma, continuous abdominal pain due to adhesions, urinary retention or incontinence, bladder and bowel injuries during the surgery, and blood clots in the legs or lungs. Later on, vaginal sagging can also be observed.

Abdominal Hysterectomy: Abdominal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus through an incision in the lower abdomen. Partial hysterectomy leaves the cervix intact, removing only the upper part of the uterus. Total hysterectomy removes both the uterus and cervix. Sometimes, the removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries accompanies a hysterectomy.

Abdominal hysterectomy can be performed in cases of abnormal uterine bleeding, presence of fibroids, gynecologic cancers, uterine prolapse, endometriosis, and chronic pelvic pain.

Possible complications include bleeding, hematoma, infection, blood clots, pelvic organ injuries such as bladder or bowel injuries during surgery, anesthesia side effects, menopause in cases where the ovaries are removed, and very rarely, a risk of death.