Non-Invasive Hysterectomy: The Current Trend in Such Procedures

So you have been to the doctor and she has given you some bad news – You must undergo a hysterectomy. For generations, the thought of a radical hysterectomy was chilling for female patients. The pain, scarring and recovery time often made women wonder if such a procedure was even worth the trouble. But today, non-invasive hysterectomy procedures are fast becoming the preferred way to undergo the treatment.

It could be for any one of a number of reasons: Fibroid tumors, a prolapsed uterus or endometriosis are just three common causes for the removal of the uterus. Cancer alone accounts for ten percent of hysterectomies performed. Technically, the uterus is the only body part that has to be removed to have the surgery considered a hysterectomy, but more often than not, the entire reproductive system is taken out, including Fallopian tubes, cervixes and ovaries.

It is important to note that, while minimally invasive, any surgery should be considered “major” surgery. Hysterectomies are one of the top two most performed surgery in the US, (second only to Caesarian Sections, with over half a million women having this procedure performed each year. In fact, by the time they turn 60, a third of all American women has had a hysterectomy.

Historically, women undergoing this procedure have had an incision made from the bellybutton to the top of the pubic bone, or an incision at the top of the vagina. Since the late ‘80s, a non-invasive hysterectomy has been done endoscopically, with the use of a laparoscope. Three, small “keyhole” incisions are made in an arc around the abdomen, and these incisions allow the introduction of cameras or other tools to facilitate in the removal of organs. Laparoscopic surgery can be used when simply removing the uterus or taking out the entire reproductive system.

Since hysterectomies are largely elective procedures, be sure to talk to your OBGYN about other treatments, including prescription drugs and dietary changes. Women need to make sure their problems are worrisome enough to justify the radical removal of an organ. After the decision is made, women can rest assure that the non-invasive hysterectomy has changed the process through which their mother or grandmother went, reducing pain, side effects and recovery time.