What is a hysterectomy?
When serious health problems affect the female reproductive system, such as uterine fibroids, gynecological cancers or endometriosis, a procedure known as a ‘hysterectomy’ may be performed.
Hysterectomy is the surgical procedure to remove the uterus and can be partial or total.
In the case of a partial hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed, while in the case of a complete hysterectomy both the uterus and part of the cervix (upper part of the vagina) and parts of the fallopian tubes are removed.
What is a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a newer style of surgery in which the surgeon inserts a tube containing a tiny video camera into your abdomen through an incision (a small cut). Using this instrument, the surgeon can see inside your body, and the image is displayed on a monitor. The surgical instruments can then be inserted through other small incisions into your abdomen, or into your vagina to complete the removal of the uterus to complete the hysterectomy.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy vs. abdominal hysterectomy
The classic abdominal hysterectomy consists of opening the lower abdomen through a much larger incision, usually between 7 and 15 centimeters to expose the uterus, allowing the surgeon to perform the hysterectomy.
Because of the nature of such a large incision, many layers of the abdominal walls are injured. This results in a much longer recovery period due to the fact that all of these injuries have to heal, and then you regain your original physical shape.
Why choose a laparoscopic hysterectomy?
A laparoscopic hysterectomy, with small incisions, avoids the typical injuries you would suffer with an abdominal hysterectomy.
Other benefits are a shorter hospital stay after surgery, significantly reduced pain levels and a faster recovery time, and the possibility of a much reduced postoperative infection.
Also, from an aesthetic point of view, because the incisions are smaller, any scars are tiny and fade more quickly than incisions created by a non-laparoscopic procedure.
My doctor recommended a complete hysterectomy
It’s a good idea to talk to another surgeon for a second opinion when your doctor has recommended surgery to fix a medical problem.
VenArt Clinic prides itself on having renowned European and Romanian surgeons who are experienced in laparoscopic techniques and modern medical technology. A brief consultation at VenArt can help you decide the best course of action.
Will I still be able to have sex after a hysterectomy?
It just depends. Some medical problems, such as endometriosis, can cause chronic pelvic pain, with pain occurring during sex. Hysterectomy is used as a way to reduce or eliminate endometriosis and pain, leading to an improved sexual experience.
However, different types of hysterectomies remove part of the cervix, which can affect the nerve groups near the top of the vagina. A supracervical hysterectomy avoids removal of the cervix.
What is a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy?
A supracervical hysterectomy procedure is one in which the cervix is not removed during a hysterectomy. When performed laparoscopically (details are discussed in the section “What is a laparoscopic hysterectomy”), this new procedure offers women undergoing a hysterectomy new possibilities compared to past hysterectomy techniques such as abdominal hysterectomy.
The decision to have a supracervical hysterectomy should be discussed with your surgeon to weigh the benefits and risks of retaining or removing your cervix, depending on your specific medical situation.
Which is the best choice?
Laparoscopy has been used since 1910 and is the preferred method for most surgeries performed today. Not only does it benefit the patient through a shorter recovery time, but the minimally invasive method reduces damage to your body.
Using laparoscopy for a hysterectomy procedure brings you the same benefits, allowing you to resume your normal activities more quickly.
To help you make a decision, a consultation with the surgeons at VenArt will help you get all the information you need. You can contact us here.
