Surgical removal of all or part of the uterus is commonly advised for specific medical issues that can’t be treated effectively with other methods, including tumors, irregular menstrual bleeding, and pelvic pain. As a highly-skilled and respected OB/GYN in Atlanta, Georgia, Eric Brown, MD, is skilled in both traditional hysterectomy procedures and minimally invasive procedures that use small incisions and specialized instruments that are designed to minimize complications. To learn more about hysterectomies, call Women's Health Center today or request an appointment online.
A hysterectomy is a procedure that removes all or part of the uterus. The procedure is performed to address specific issues like:
Uterine problems become more common as a woman gets older, and about a third of women experience some type of pelvic problem by the time they reach their 60th birthday.
A partial hysterectomy removes the top portion of the uterus while leaving the cervix intact. A complete hysterectomy (the most common type) removes the entire uterus, including the cervix. More extensive hysterectomy procedures may remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes. (Removal of the ovaries is called oophorectomy.)
The type of procedure you’ll have will depend on:
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a special instrument called a laparoscope and very small incisions. The laparoscope is equipped with a tiny camera that takes images and video from inside your body, transmitting the images back to a monitor.
Dr. Brown performs the surgery through the small incisions, using the videos to guide the surgery. Some types of minimally invasive hysterectomies can be performed through the vagina without any external incisions.
Because they use smaller incisions, minimally invasive hysterectomies cause less tissue damage, and as a result, you can expect a faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort while you heal. Plus, the small incisions mean there’s less risk for complications like infections and bleeding.
After your hysterectomy, you’ll stay in the hospital for a day or two while you recover. Your discomfort will depend on the type of hysterectomy you’ve had and the surgical technique that was used. You’ll be given medication to manage your pain, and you’ll be able and encouraged to walk around. Your activity, including sex, will be limited for several weeks as the area heals, and you’ll need to wear sanitary napkins—not tampons—to control any bleeding that may occur.
To learn more or schedule a hysterectomy consultation, call Women’s Health Center today or request an appointment online.
*Individual results may vary
