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Hysterectomy – (Abdominally, Laparoscopically & Vaginally)

A hysterectomy is an operation to remove a woman’s uterus. A woman may have a hysterectomy for different reasons, including, fibroids and  or a prolapsed uterus. Sometimes, one or both of the ovaries may also be removed.

Hysterectomies are carried out for a variety of reasons and can be performed:

  • Vaginally – your gynaecologist will use special surgical instruments to detach the womb from the ligaments holding it in place, by making a small incision around your cervix (at the top of the vagina). Your womb and cervix will then be removed. The surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you will be unconscious during the procedure. The operation usually takes around an hour to complete. In order to minimise the risk of future prolapse, the ligaments that held your womb in place will be stitched to the top of your vagina.
  • Abdominally – lasting around 60 minutes, the surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. A cut will be made by your gynaecologist, typically where your ‘bikini’ line is. Through the cut, they will take out your womb, normally along with your cervix. In order to take out your cervix, a cut will need to be made at the top part of your vagina.
  • Laparoscopically – usually performed under a general anaesthetic. Occasionally a spinal anaesthetic will be used. The operation usually takes about an hour and a half. First, your gynaecologist will make several small cuts on your abdomen so they can insert an instrument which inflates the abdominal cavity with a carbon dioxide gas. This will help the surgeons get a better view. They will then insert a number of tubes (ports) into your abdomen, through which they will insert surgical instruments, along with a telescope (laparoscope). This will allow them to see inside your abdomen and perform the operation. Your gynaecologist may also need to place instruments through your vagina to help remove your womb. They will make a cut around your cervix at the top of your vagina so they can remove your womb and cervix.

Your Consultant will discuss your options with you.

Hysterectomy – (Abdominally, Laparoscopically & Vaginally) Consultants