Fibroids
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Health Information
Hysterectomy
Uterine fibroids account for approximately 30%
of all hysterectomies performed in the United
States. Hysterectomy is often recommended when
fibroids cause profound uterine bleeding resulting
in anemia, bleeding between menstrual periods
or pelvic discomfort.
A hysterectomy is performed abdominally, vaginally,
or with the aid of a laparoscope. Some surgeons
also perform supracervical hysterectomies, removing
only the top part of the uterus, leaving the cervix
intact. Studies have suggested that there are
less patient complaints when the cervix is not
disturbed. The decision whether to perform an
abdominal, vaginal, or laparoscopic hysterectomy
depends on several factors including:
- the size of the uterus
- previous surgery
- pelvic infections
- other conditions that may result in pelvic
scar tissue (adhesions)
- coexisting conditions that require evaluation
and possible treatment (such as an ovarian mass)
- patient preference
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