State-of-the-art approaches in minimally invasive hysterectomy.
Enormous advancements have been made in gynecology to help women avoid hysterectomy (the surgical removal of the uterus). In some cases, though, hysterectomy is necessary. These include endometriosis, abnormal bleeding, uterine or cervical cancer, severe uterine fibroids, certain cases of pelvic prolapse and others. When hysterectomy is unavoidable, a minimally invasive approach can offer you significant benefits over a traditional open procedure.
Our physicians provide skilled, up-to-date gynecologic surgery with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques. They provide comprehensive diagnosis and the latest treatments for gynecologic health issues. Some procedures are performed on an outpatient basis – while others require only a day or two in the hospital. Women report far less postoperative pain and smaller incisions which mean a better result cosmetically.
For women who need hysterectomy, our physicians offer their skilled experience.
The decision regarding removal of the ovaries can be personal choice, or may be necessary based on your condition. If you have not gone through menopause, removal of both ovaries will make you menopausal. If you are a candidate, your doctor will discuss the use of hormones to decrease menopausal symptoms.
There are several techniques that can be used to perform hysterectomy. The technique that is chosen is dependent on your health, the reason for surgery and other factors.
Total vaginal hysterectomy (TVH)
With this procedure, the uterus and cervix are removed through an incision in the vagina. Because an incision is not made in the abdomen, your recovery time may be shorter than with an abdominal procedure. You will have a shorter hospital stay and generally will have less pain. The ovaries and or fallopian tubes may also be removed with a vaginal hysterectomy.
Total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH)
In this procedure, the uterus and cervix are removed through an incision in the abdomen. This type of hysterectomy provides the best view of the uterus and organs and, therefore, it may be chosen if you have large uterine fibroids, uterine cancer or scar tissue from other surgeries.
If the cervix is not removed, the procedure is called a supracervical hysterectomy. The cervix may be left in place if you have not had any abnormal Pap smears or if it is technically difficult to remove due to scar tissue.
Total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH)
Laparoscopy is used to remove the uterus and cervix with this procedure. An incision is made at the navel, and two to three additional incisions are made in the lower abdomen. The uterus is detached surgically and removed. This is one of the newest hysterectomy techniques and our physicians are well-trained and experienced with this technical, complex procedure.
If only the uterus is removed and the cervix is left in place, it is called laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH).
Laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH)
With this procedure, laparoscopy is used to perform a portion of the procedure and the remainder of the hysterectomy is completed vaginally. The uterus and cervix are removed, while the ovaries and fallopian tubes may or may not be removed.
Laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH)
Again, laparoscopy is used with this procedure; however, unlike with laparoscopic hysterectomy, the cervix is left in place and only the uterus with or without the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed.
Glossary:
Endometriosis: A condition where tissue from the lining of the uterus is found within the abdomen. Women with endometriosis can have pelvic pain.
Prolapse: A condition in which the pelvic organs drop down into the vagina. The uterus, bladder and rectum each have the potential to prolapse.
Cervix: The portion of the uterus that extends into the vagina and dilates prior to a vaginal delivery.
Uterus: The female organ in which a fetus develops during pregnancy. The uterus is a muscular organ.
Fallopian tubes: Tubes through which an egg travels from the ovary to the uterus.
Ovary: The female organ that produces eggs.
Uterine fibroids: Generally benign (noncancerous) growths of the muscle of the uterus.
Menopause: The natural process where women stop having periods. Symptoms during menopause can be hot flashes, vaginal dryness and trouble sleeping.
To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, please call our office at 903.533.8811 or use our online Request an Appointment form. For additional information on any condition, treatment or procedure, please visit our Health Glossary.