Hysterectomy is a procedure in which the uterus is removed from the body. It is an operation performed under general anesthetic and is a major surgical procedure. There are two main types of hysterectomy, one being vaginal and the other abdominal. In the latter case the uterus is removed through an incision made in the wall of the abdomen. The ovaries may or may not be removed during the procedure depending on the specifics of the individual’s condition.

There are a number of circumstances in which a hysterectomy might be deemed necessary, however, physicians generally base their decision to refer a patient for the procedure on the basis that it will either save life, improve the quality of life or address a serious problem. Among the most common reasons that a hysterectomy is performed are cancer, fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic adhesions and prolapses.

Procedure information
Abdominal hysterectomy involves a process known as laparotomy (sometimes referred to as ‘open hysterectomy’) in which the surgeon makes a transverse incision through the abdominal wall (generally just above the pubic bone) to gain access to the patient’s reproductive organs. The incision is similar to that required for a Caesarian section and provides considerably easier access to the uterus than is possible with a vaginal hysterectomy.

There is some risk of hemorrhage in the pelvic region from the procedure on account of the large volume of blood supplied to that area. Additionally, patients run the risk of infection from the movement of the bladder and intestines required to provide access to the uterus. Recovery time Patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomies remain in hospital for four to five days and after discharge they can expect recovery to take six to eight weeks. Localized pain is normal immediately following the procedure, and this can be controlled with medication. Patients should avoid heavy physical activity in the first couple of weeks after the operation. If a patient’s work is of a manual nature then several weeks’ leave of absence may be necessary. Many patients require hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after a hysterectomy.