What is a Hysterectomy?
A Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus. Whether you’re considering hysterectomy for medical reasons or have questions about the procedure, our aim is to provide you with comprehensive information to help you make informed decisions about your health. Depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s medical history, other reproductive organs, such as the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, may also be removed during the procedure.
Method of hysterectomy:
Dr. Mayur Patel performs most hysterectomies using minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques (Da Vinci Surgical System), that allow faster recovery, small incisions, less blood loss and scarring.
Some cases are performed using open abdominal surgery, or by a vaginal approach. Cases are analyzed on an individual basis.
What are hysterectomies used to treat?
Dr. Mayur Patel may perform a hysterectomy for various medical reasons.
- Uterine Fibroids: Large or symptomatic fibroids (benign tumors) in the uterus that cause pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, or other symptoms.
- Endometriosis: Severe endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and other complications.
- Uterine Prolapse: Prolapse of the uterus, in which the uterus descends into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
- Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis, a condition in which the tissue lining the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, leading to pain, heavy bleeding, and enlargement of the uterus.
- Uterine Cancer: Cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer) or other gynecological cancers that require removal of the uterus as part of cancer treatment.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain: Severe or debilitating pelvic pain that does not respond to other conservative treatments.
Types of Hysterectomy
- Total Hysterectomy: Removal of the entire uterus, including the cervix. This is the most common type of hysterectomy.
- Partial Hysterectomy (Supracervical Hysterectomy): Removal of the upper portion of the uterus while leaving the cervix intact.
- Radical Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues, typically performed for gynecological cancers.
- Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy: Removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries, which may be performed in conjunction with hysterectomy, especially in cases of cancer or certain benign conditions.
Benefits of Hysterectomy
- Relief from Symptoms: Hysterectomy can provide relief from symptoms associated with gynecological conditions, such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, and pressure symptoms.
- Treatment of Gynecological Cancers: Hysterectomy may be curative for certain gynecological cancers, such as endometrial cancer or cervical cancer, when performed as part of cancer treatment.
- Improved Quality of Life: For women with debilitating symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life, hysterectomy can offer long-term relief and improvement in overall well-being.
Making Informed Decisions
Deciding whether to undergo hysterectomy is a deeply personal decision that should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. It’s essential to discuss the benefits, risks, and alternatives of hysterectomy, as well as your individual medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals, to make an informed choice that aligns with your health and well-being.
