The second most common surgical procedure performed in the United States is a hysterectomy, which refers to the removal of a woman's uterus. A total hysterectomy is an operation that removes both the uterus and cervix, while a radical hysterectomy refers to procedures that involve removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes,ovaries, oviducts, top portion of the vagina, and lympth nodes. In contrast, a partial hysterectomy refers to a procedure where only the uterus is removed. This type of operation involves a shorter , and is commonly used in the treatment of fibroids and severe and uncontrollable vaginal bleeding. Before undergoing a , you should be familiar with how it works and the effects on your body.
Although partial hysterectomies can be performed vaginally or abdominally, by far the most prevalent method is the abdominal approach. When performing a partial hysterectomy via the abdominal technique, the surgeon will make an incision similar to the one utilized with a C-section, then detach the uterus from its blood supply and ligaments and remove it. One of the advantages to this method is the ability of the surgeon to adequately visualize the reproductive organs and have plenty of space in which to work. However, a few downsides of this procedure involve prolonged recovery time and discomfort due to the size of the incision, as well as leaving a visible scar. The vaginal approach does not leave a scar that can be seen and has a shorter recovery period. However, large fibroids cannot be removed in this manner. Also, it's more difficult for the surgeon to see when taking a vaginal approach, thus often mandating the need for the use of a laparascope, which is available only to those trained in its use. Both procedures are performed with the patient under anesthesia, either local or general.
Although partial hysterectomies are ovary-sparing, after surgery blood flow to the ovaries diminishes and gradually ceases. Therefore, women still can and do experience side effects from hormonal changes. The whole gamut of possible menopausal symptoms and consequences are also possible in hysterectomy patients, including hot flashes, irritability, headaches, osteoperosis, weight gain, urinary problems and decreased sex drive. Women that were menstruating also will stop once having a partial hysterectomy performed. Also, surgical side effects can occur as well, including bowel or bladder injuries and infections, adhesions, infections of the incision, hemorrhaging, and reactions to the anesthesia.
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