What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgery performed to remove a woman’s uterus. In some cases, the cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are removed as well. Hysterectomies are most often performed to elevate symptoms of pelvic pain due to endometriosis or to help with heavy irregular periods. In the case of uterine cancer having a hysterectomy can mean survival. Why are Hysterectomies performed?
There are a number of reasons for having a hysterectomy. Below is a list of the most common

• Uterine Fibroids – Common, non-cancerous tumors that grow in the muscle of the uterus. Sometimes these fibroids cause heavy bleeding or pain and can be removed by having a hysterectomy.
• Endometriosis – Is the second leading reason for a hysterectomy among women. It occurs when inside lining of the uterus begins to grow to the outside and nearby organs. It can cause painful periods, abnormal bleeding, and in some cases loss of fertility. A hysterectomy is generally not performed unless other treatment has failed.
• Pelvic relaxation - Is a condition in which certain ligaments weaken causing the bladder, rectum, or uterus to drop (prolapse). Childbirth, obesity, and loss of estrogen after menopause can be contributors to this problem.
• Cancer – A hysterectomy is performed to remove malignant (cancerous) tumors. These malignant tumors can be found in the uterus, cervix, ovaries, or tubes.

Types of Hysterectomies

• The Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
  A 4-6 inch incision is made in the abdomen and the uterus is removed through the incision. The surgery is done as an inpatient procedure only and length of hospital stay could be 3—6 days.
• The Vaginal Hysterectomy
  The incision is made inside the vagina. The uterus is removed through the vagina, and the cervix is left in place. This type of hysterectomy is done when the uterus is not large or when the uterus has dropped down into the vagina.
• LAVH (Laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy)
  Uses a small incision in the abdomen to insert a tiny camera and instruments inorder to view and move the organs. The uterus is then removed through the vagina.

Are there alternatives to a traditional Hysterectomy?
Although, standard hysterectomies still need to be performed on women with large uteri or malignancies, there is another option for women when the cervix does not need to be removed. Our physicians can perform a new type of hysterectomy called LSH or Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy.

What is LSH?
LSH (Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy) is a minimally invasive procedure that allows for a faster recovery time and is an alternative option when the patient does not need her cervix removed.

How is it performed?
Three small incisions are made in the abdomen (5, 10, 15 mm). The uterus is then cut into small sections and removed through one of the small incisions made in the abdomen. The equipment and technology allow this procedure to be performed on a normal uterus and it can be performed with other pelvic procedures. Talk to you doctor
A hysterectomy is a major surgery, as with any surgery, it is always best to discuss all of your options with your physician. He/She can determine which surgery option best meets your needs and answer any question or concerns you may have about the surgery.