Key Aspects of Hysterectomy:
- Types: A total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix, while a subtotal/supracervical hysterectomy removes only the uterus, leaving the cervix.
At National Hospital, most of the procedure is done by laparoscopy. Laparoscopy offers you better outcome, since laparoscopy is using small incision, which leads to minimal pain / painless. Small scar means faster recovery, faster healing. Laparoscopy is also using high-definiton laparoscope camera, to enhance the accuracy. Hence, laparoscopy is the most used procedure to do hysterectomy.
- Approaches: Procedures can be done abdominally (open), vaginally, or laparoscopically (minimally invasive).
- Ovaries: Removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy) may occur at the same time, which causes immediate menopause if not already reached.
- Recovery: Full recovery usually takes about 1 to 4 weeks, during which heavy lifting and sexual activity should be avoided.
- Alternatives: Depending on the condition, options like medication, ablation, or embolization may be considered before surgery.
