Demystifying Hysterectomy Part II: “How and why is hysterectomy performed?”
May 14, 2010 at 3:42 pm 3 comments
A hysterectomy can be performed in several ways. Minimally invasive surgical techniques include the removal of the uterus (and/or ovaries) through laparoscopy, a surgical technique which involves the insertion of long thin instruments through very small holes in the patient’s abdomen. Hysterectomy can also be done via the vagina in a procedure called vaginal hysterectomy. Despite the proven benefits of minimally invasive surgical techniques, the most common method of removing the uterus is still through an open abdominal incision called a laparotomy.
Hysterectomy is used to treat a number of gynecologic conditions including uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, intractable pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and certain types of cancer. It may also be required in certain types of emergencies (such as hemorrhage during childbirth) or electively (in persons undergoing gender reassignment).
Entry filed under: Gynecology, Minimally Invasive Surgery. Tags: adenomyosis, bleeding, cancer, endometriosis, fibroids, gender reassignment, gynecologic surgery, gynecology, hemorrhage, hysterectomy, laparoscopy, laparotomy, pain, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain.
The Gynecologist 
1.
Jasmine | July 19, 2012 at 2:03 pm
Thank you. I really needed to know these things before I went to the doctor and just stared at him thinking he’s telepathic and understands what I’m thinking. This was really helpful.
2.
Liz | June 8, 2014 at 6:35 pm
I strongly believe I have andeomyosis.. with heavy prolong bleeding, I am about to crawl in a hole and die… its unbearable.. I need help and afraid of operaitons
3.
drnicoll | February 20, 2015 at 7:42 pm
Hi Liz,
As I have written many times before on this site, I do not give out individual medical advice on this blog. Please contact your doctor ASAP. Speaking to a doctor doesn’t commit you to having an operation, so don’t be afraid to have the conversation.
Best regards,
Dr N