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Hysterectomy

Definition: The procedure is associated with removal of the uterus through laparoscopic or conventional open surgery; with vaginal as well as abdominal incisions. If required, ovaries can also be removed, depending upon the patient’s health.
Hysterectomy

Why did it need?

Hysterectomy is advised in conditions that include

  • Uterine/ovarian cancer
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Endometriosis
  • Pelvic Adhesions
  • Uterine bleeding not controlled by medicine
  • Uterine prolepses
  • Adenomyosis
  • Complications during childbirth

Facts and figures

  • Hysterectomy is the second most common surgeries performed on 5,56,000 women annually; confirming to be 1 in 3 women over 60 years of age.
  • 55% of the total hysterectomies are performed on women between 35-40; however, the number of women in their 30s-40s undergoing the surgery is increasing.
  • The United States is ranked first with the highest rate of hysterectomies.
  • It is estimated that 30% of hysterectomies are unnecessary.

Risk and complications associated with hysterectomy surgery includes

  • Hemorrhage in the pelvic region
  • Infection
  • Damage to adjacent organs- bladder or bowel injuries
  • Anaesthesia reaction
  • Unwanted scarring on the abdomen

Advantages

  • Hysterectomy can cure multiple indications like uterine cancer, uterine fibroids, and endometriosis.
  • Significant improvement has been reported in health, post-hysterectomy in women suffering from uterine bleeding.
  • The operation improves a woman’s quality of life. According to a study 71% of women who had hysterectomies, reported feeling better mentally, physically, and sexually after the operation.

Disadvantages

  • Depression and loss of libido, post-hysterectomy
  • Hormone replacement therapy is advised in case of the removal of ovaries, due to an increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

Preoperative Preparation

  • Complete physical examination
  • Blood and urinalysis
  • X-rays and USG
  • Consultation 7 days prior to the procedure for medicinal D0’s and Don’ts.
  • Quit unhealthy habits, like smoking, drinking, etc.
  • Post-operative rehabilitation can be arranged through family, friends,and caretaker.
  • 7-8 hours of fasting is advised prior to surgery.

Post operative care

  • Open surgery needs hospitalization for 4-5 days, whereas laparoscopic incision is a one-day procedure.
  • The medications will be given to control pain and to prevent infection
  • The patient who needs to remove ovary may need to start hormone replacement therapy
Hysterectomy Do’s, Don’ts and Precaution

Dos, Don’ts and Precautions

  • Do follow the medication schedule and diet suggested by the dietician.
  • Don’t indulge in heavy physical activity for 1-2  weeks after the operation
  • Avoid sexual activity, use of douche, tampons for 6 weeks post-surgery.
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