Sometimes a hysterectomy is the only option to relieve severe pelvic pain or bleeding. At Gynecology Specialists of Philadelphia, renowned gynecologic surgeons Sonya Lee, MD practices minimally invasive alternatives to traditional abdominal hysterectomies. If you’re looking for the most advanced care in gynecology for your hysterectomy procedure, call Gynecology Specialists or book an appointment online today.
Hysterectomy Q & A
What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure for partially or entirely removing your uterus. Depending on your condition and the extent of the procedure, a hysterectomy may also involve removing your ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Following a hysterectomy, you stop menstruating and are no longer able to get pregnant. Hysterectomies are sometimes used to treat extreme heavy bleeding or pelvic pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
What conditions to gynecologists use hysterectomies to treat?
At Gynecology Specialists, Dr. Lee may perform hysterectomies to treat the following gynecologic conditions:
Symptomatic uterine fibroids
Uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Chronic pelvic pain
Uterine prolapse
Endometriosis
What are my options for hysterectomy surgery?
Dr. Lee knows that you want to avoid surgery whenever possible, which is why they work with you to explore all other options before considering a hysterectomy.
If you do need a hysterectomy, they may first evaluate your candidacy for a minimally invasive option. Dr. Lee is highly skilled in the following hysterectomy procedures:
Abdominal hysterectomy
An abdominal hysterectomy is the most common and traditionally-used procedure. About 65% of all hysterectomies are performed via the abdomen, but Dr. Lee finds that most women are candidates for minimally invasive options.
This procedure is an open surgery, meaning that your uterus is removed through a large, five to seven-inch incision along your abdomen.
Transvaginal hysterectomy (TVH)
TVH avoids a large scar on your abdomen by removing your uterus through a small incision inside your vagina.
LAVH is similar to TVH because Dr. Lee removes your uterus through a small incision in your vagina. The difference is, this procedure also uses a laparoscopic surgical instrument for viewing and treating your pelvic organs. The doctors discuss whether LAVH works for your specific needs.
Both TVH and LAVH offer advantages over abdominal hysterectomies, including:
Less pain
No visible scar
Faster recovery time
Less trauma to your body
If you think you may need a hysterectomy and want to explore minimally invasive surgical options, call Gynecology Specialists or book an appointment online today.
