By Geoffrey Bowers, MD, Virtua Gynecologist/Robotic Surgeon, Virtua Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery

Pelvic pain and heavy bleeding can be incredibly challenging for many women, often leading them to consider a hysterectomy or the surgical removal of the uterus. Approximately one in three women in the U.S. opts for this procedure before turning 60.

If a hysterectomy is your best treatment choice, there are multiple options to consider. Knowing whether you need a partial hysterectomy (removing just the uterus), total hysterectomy (removing the uterus and cervix), or a hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries, will help you make an informed decision. Additionally, newer, minimally invasive techniques and robotic-assisted surgeries can lead to faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery.

Hysterectomy options tailored to you

When discussing your surgical options, your doctor will consider various factors, including your specific medical condition, the size and shape of your uterus, pelvic anatomy, body type, and any prior surgeries. This personalized approach ensures you'll receive recommendations that suit your lifestyle and unique needs. Here’s a closer look at the different types of hysterectomy procedures available:

• Open abdominal surgery: This involves removing the pelvic organs through a 6- to 12-inch abdominal incision. 
• Vaginal hysterectomy: This technique removes the organs through the vagina without any external incisions. It’s often used for benign (non-cancerous) conditions and is suitable when the uterus is of average size and in cases of pelvic prolapse.
• Laparoscopic hysterectomy: This minimally invasive method uses instruments inserted through three to five small incisions in the abdomen. A small scope (camera) is inserted through one of the incisions, offering a two-dimensional view of the pelvic area.
• Robotic hysterectomy: This advanced minimally invasive approach is usually performed through one or more small incisions. During this procedure, the surgeon operates from a console a few feet away from the patient, controlling the movement of three to four robotic arms. The robotic instruments are designed to mimic the surgeon’s wrist movements, and a high-resolution camera provides a magnified three-dimensional view of the abdomen. This approach to hysterectomy gives the surgeon excellent precision and control, resulting in less pain for the patient, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery. Most patients can expect to spend only one night in the hospital, and many return to their normal activities within three to five days.

When you need a hysterectomy to relieve pain and heavy bleeding, it helps to know you have options and a voice in your treatment plan.

Find symptom relief with a Virtua minimally invasive GYN surgeon

Virtua’s minimally invasive GYN surgeons offer innovative surgical solutions that help you return to your life and activities with minimal downtime. To schedule an appointment with a Virtua minimally invasive GYN surgeon, call 888-847-8823.