Hysterectomy: Surgical Removal of The Uterus

Hysterectomy Doesn’t Always Mean Major Surgery | Understanding the Keyhole Approach

Have you been told you need a hysterectomy, and your mind pictures major surgery, a big scar, and weeks in bed? For many women today, it does not have to be that way.

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the womb (uterus). You'll no longer be able to get pregnant after the operation. If you have not already gone through the menopause, you'll no longer have periods, regardless of your age. It's more common for women aged 40 to 50.

Why do I need a hysterectomy?

Hysterectomies are carried out to treat health problems that affect the female reproductive system. A hysterectomy is a major operation with a long recovery time and is only considered after less invasive treatments have been tried.

Things to consider

If you have a hysterectomy, as well as having your womb removed, you may have to decide whether to also have your cervix or ovaries removed. Your decision will usually be based on your personal feelings, medical history and any recommendations your doctor may have.

Complications of a hysterectomy

There's a small risk of complications, including:

• heavy bleeding
• infection
• damage to your bladder or bowel
• a serious reaction to the general anaesthetic

Key Learnings:

• When a hysterectomy may be recommended for heavy bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, or other conditions that have not settled with other treatments or medication
• How the approach has changed while the old image is major open surgery, many hysterectomies can now be done through keyhole surgery, using a few tiny incisions with a total laparoscopic technique
• The possible benefits of keyhole surgery much smaller cuts, less healing time, less pain, and a shorter hospital stay, helping you return to your normal life and work sooner

What recovery can look like:‍

Many women are able to go home within a day of surgery and recover more quickly than with open surgery.

The key message:‍

It’s not about rushing into surgery. It’s about choosing the right approach, for the right reasons, and what’s suitable depends on your individual situation. If a hysterectomy has been recommended and you’d like to understand your options, our team at Fakeeh University Hospital is here to help.