Sep
24
In the United States, over 600,000 women undergo a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) each year, and the majority are performed through a large abdominal incision. Ironically, the inverse is the practice in most European countries where vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomies predominate.
According to multiple medical studies, these less invasive routes not only lessen risk and expedite a patient’s recovery, but also are appropriate in the majority of procedures for benign disease. An article in this month’s Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology reported trends in hysterectomy rates and routes in California from 1991 2004. Despite a decrease by the end of this period, 55% of hysterectomies continue to be performed abdominally, whereas 22% are performed vaginally, and 23% laparoscopically. By comparison during the past year at Women’s Health Specialists our rates of abdominal, vaginal, and laparoscopic hysterectomy were 23%, 20%, and 57%, respectively. Consequently, this emphasis on minimally invasive surgery brings a little bit of the advancements Europeans enjoy to women in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Why should women in need of a hysterectomy seek surgeons who prefer minimally invasive procedures? A large body of medical literature has clearly established that when compared to abdominal hysterectomy, vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomy obviates the need for large incisions, minimizes disruption to bowel function, results in significantly less pain, and most importantly facilitates a rapid return to regular activities.
Despite many gynecologists’ objections to the contrary, most women with fibroids, previous pelvic surgery, and endometriosis remain excellent candidates for less invasive hysterectomy procedures.
Wishing you good health!
Women’s Health Specialists
2299 Mowry Avenue, Suite #3C
Fremont, CA 94538
510.796.7057
www.WomensHealthFremont.com
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