What are the different types of hysterectomies?
There are four types of hysterectomies. The type of hysterectomy performed depends on the problem being treated: • Subtotal hysterectomy (partial) involves removing the body of the uterus, but leaving the cervix in place. • Total hysterectomy involves removing the body of the uterus as well as the cervix. • Total hysterectomy with salipingo-oophorectomy (bilateral if both ovaries are removed) involves removing the body of the uterus, the cervix, as well as the ovaries and Fallopian tubes. • Radical hysterectomy is done specifically in the case of invasive gynaecological cancer, is the same procedure as a total hysterectomy but also involves the removal of the upper part of the vagina as well as the pelvic lymphatic ganglions.
Four surgical options are currently available for a woman who needs a hysterectomy: • Abdominal Hysterectomy, which is performed by making a large incision in the lower abdomen and surgically removing the uterus. The tubes and ovaries can also be removed with this procedure, if indicated. • Vaginal Hysterectomy, which is often indicated when the uterus is low in the pelvis. The surgeon enters the abdominal cavity through an incision in the vagina next to the cervix. The uterus is surgically removed through this incision. It can be combined with a vaginal repair for problems of urinary incontinence, cystocele or rectocele. Vaginal hysterectomy is not possible if the patient’s ovaries must be removed, if the patient has had previous pelvic surgery or if the surgeon must treat related disorders near the uterus. Many patients are not considered for vaginal hysterectomy due to a history of pelvic scar tissue (adhesions); a uterus that is too large; or the condition of endometriosis, which m
