Why might I need a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is one of the most frequently performed surgiers for women. The reasons you may need a hysterectomy to remove your uterus include:
- Large, painful fibroids
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Endometriosis
- Uterine prolapse
- Cancer of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries
How is a hysterectomy performed?
Most hysterectomies are performed with an open approach or a large incision on the abdomen similar to a C-section scar. We specialize in minimally invasive hysterectomies using the da VinciⓇ robotic system. During robotic surgery, several small incisions are made near the belly button which allows access to the uterus using robotic arms that are controlled by the surgeon. The da Vinci system’s advanced technology allows the surgeon to use natural wrist movements to control the flow of these instruments as he views the process on a three-dimensional screen.
What are the benefits of a minimally invasive hysterectomy?
There are many benefits to minimally invasive surgery over traditional open surgery. Some of these benefits include:
- Less blood loss
- Shorter hospital stay
- Smaller incisions with less scarring
- Decreased pain and shorter recovery
- Lower risk of infections and complications
What should I expect during recovery from a hysterectomy?
After a minimally invasive hysterectomy, you can go home the same day of surgery or the following morning. In a few days, you will be able to resume your usual home activities. Pain is well managed with over the counter medication and few patients require nacrotic pain killers. Most patients are able to start driving within 1-2 weeks of surgery.
If your ovaries are also removed during the hysterectomy, you will go into menopause following the surgery. This is called surgical menopause and can be managed with hormone treatment and lifestyle strategies.
Following surgery, you need to refrain from sexual intercourse and strenuous activity for about six weeks. Your surgeon and office staff will provide you with complete postsurgical care instructions.
