Hysterectomy

Several types of procedures are used to perform hysterectomies. The type and technique used to perform the procedure will be determined by your physician, based upon your particular situation.

• Abdominal hysterectomy. The uterus is removed through the abdomen via a surgical incision about six to eight inches long. This procedure is most commonly used when the ovaries and fallopian tubes are being removed, when the uterus is enlarged, or when disease has spread to the pelvic cavity, as in endometriosis or cancer. The main surgical incision can be made either vertically, from the navel down to the pubic bone, or horizontally, along the top of the pubic hairline.
• Vaginal hysterectomy. In this procedure, the uterus is removed through the vaginal opening, and is most often used in cases of uterine prolapse or when vaginal repairs are necessary for related conditions. No external incision is made, which means there is no visible scarring.
• Laparoscope-assisted vaginal hysterectomy. Vaginal hysterectomy is performed with the aid of a laparoscope, a thin, flexible tube containing a video camera. Thin tubes are inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen near the navel. The uterus is then removed in sections through the laparoscope tube or through the vagina.
• da Vinci Robotic Hysterectomy. da Vinci Robotic surgical technology provides a less invasive option for hysterectomy. It enables a surgeon to use a robotic device to access and remove the uterus in sections through small surgical “ports” measuring one to two centimeters instead of through larger incisions. Benefits of the procedure include reduced pain, faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, and a lower risk of complications.