Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

One in Every Three Women Will Have a Hysterectomy and Most Will Experience a Prolonged Recovery

Minimally invasive surgical options can reduce scarring and shorten recovery time by weeks

Making the decision whether or not to have a hysterectomy can be both difficult and scary. Unfortunately, it is a decision that will face one out of every three women in the United States. What is more frightening than the decision itself is that approximately 2 out of 3 of these women will undergo the traditional invasive form of the procedure, which can result in a prolonged recovery and leave a visible scar.

Now there is good news for women in the Knoxville area facing this decision. Local physician Dr. Kenneth O’Kelley of Generations OBGYN is one of many physicians around the country offering women minimally invasive hysterectomy options. Minimally invasive hysterectomies were developed to shorten recovery, reduce pain and complications, and minimize scarring.

Women who choose to have a minimally invasive procedure typically have an easier physical experience, most returning home in a few days and to normal activities in a few weeks. Traditional hysterectomies require an average hospital stay of five to seven days and complete recovery may require up to two months.

“Historically, gynecologists have been trained to perform traditional open hysterectomies, which often are harder on the patients,” said Dr. O'Kelley. “Now, thanks to minimally invasive options, women do not need to be sidelined by hysterectomies. They can return to their normal lives in a much shorter time and experience a less painful recovery. Women should discuss their treatment and recovery goals with their gynecologist when preparing to undergo a hysterectomy and ask if minimally invasive surgery would be an option.”

Many women are diligent about researching every possible treatment option before agreeing to a hysterectomy. However, once the decision is made, they may not investigate their surgical alternatives or question the options presented to them. As a result, many do not know minimally invasive hysterectomy is an option unless their physician brings it up.

The majority of gynecologists still perform traditional open hysterectomies (also referred to as total abdominal hysterectomies), although research from clinical trials shows minimally invasive options are better for the patient. Minimally invasive hysterectomies — including vaginal hysterectomy, laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy, and laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy — result in quicker recoveries, fewer complications, and less pain and scarring. More gynecologists are becoming trained on the new minimally invasive procedures so they can provide alternative surgical options for their patients.

The traditional hysterectomy involves removing the uterus and cervix through a four- to six-inch “bikini cut” on the abdomen that can leave a noticeable scar. With the vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus and cervix are removed through an incision deep in the vagina. The laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy is similar to the vaginal approach but requires laparoscopic skills and instruments.

The minimally invasive laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy and total laparoscopic hysterectomy are recently developed surgical techniques. The procedure uses a laparoscope, a fiber optic instrument that is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision. The laparoscope allows gynecologists to examine the inside of the abdomen and guide the surgical procedure while removing the uterus.

The small incisions necessary for a laparoscopic procedure (such as the laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, or total laparoscopic hysterectomy) are typically made in the navel and/or on the abdomen. The uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and dense tissue can be removed through these incisions.

“Minimally invasive hysterectomies are an option for most women considering the procedure,” said Dr. O'Kelley. “Women need to be informed so they will know to ask about minimally invasive options. Undergoing the procedure can be emotionally and physically challenging enough without unnecessary pain and recovery time.”

As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks associated with minimally invasive surgeries. A woman who is a candidate for a hysterectomy should discuss all surgical options with her physician. For more information about minimally invasive hysterectomy options, please visit www.hysterectomyoptions.com.