Hysterectomy in Andrews, TX
A partial hysterectomy involves the permanent, surgical removal of the woman’s uterus. A total hysterectomy may also involve removal of the fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix and other related structures, as well. A hysterectomy can be performed in several different ways:
- Abdominal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves an incision in the lower abdomen, removal of your uterus (where a baby grows) and approximately six to eight weeks of restful recovery time after a hospital stay that typically lasts two or three days.
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive form of the procedure, which we perform to remove the uterus through very small incisions in either the abdomen or the vagina.
- Vaginal hysterectomy involves a small vaginal incision.
- Robotic surgical hysterectomy involves a computerized robotic arm controlled by the surgeon, who performs the procedure through small incisions in the lower abdomen, similar to laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Our ob gyn specialist at Andrews Family Medicine works closely with each patient to determine the scope and type of hysterectomy that best suits her needs. Many women who opt for hysterectomy prefer the more advanced, minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomy over abdominal hysterectomy because of minimal scarring and faster recovery time. The risks of abdominal hysterectomy include blood clots, infection, excessive bleeding, damaging other structures during surgery and earlier menopause onset, even if the ovaries are left intact. Once the uterus has been removed, conception/pregnancy is no longer possible. We welcome patients from Andrews TX, Goldsmith, Seminole, Lamesa, Midland, Odessa, Gardendale and nearby locations.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive procedure using a small incision in the belly button to facilitate insertion of a tiny camera by your gynecologist to help him visualize your internal structures. Other small incisions allow your ob gyn specialist to insert the laparoscopic instruments he will use to remove your uterus. Risks are about the same as with abdominal hysterectomy, and recovery time after laparoscopic hysterectomy is typically about six weeks. Just as with other types of hysterectomy, once your uterus is removed, you cannot grow it back or have any more children.
What to Expect During & After Hysterectomy
You will be anesthetized and asleep during your hysterectomy. Anesthesia may be injected or given intravenously by IV. Your vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and blood oxygen levels will be monitored throughout. You will not feel any pain during the hysterectomy procedure. Typical recovery requires a day or two in the hospital and someone to drive you home after your procedure.
Once you are home, you should apply heating pads to your abdomen and lower abdomen to reduce pain (don’t fall asleep with heating pads on). Be careful to move around slowly and avoid bending or lifting for at least two weeks after your hysterectomy. Be sure to notify your doctor if you have fever, chills, dizziness, bleeding from the surgical site, abdominal pain or bloating. Ask your doctor about minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomy and daVinci® robotic hysterectomy options, as well.
