Why is hysterectomy considered a major operation?

I know that hysterectomy is a 'major' opn. More because out of practical experience - the healing takes so long
But actually I don't understand why. Anyone can help out?

Well, I had a SAH. My doctor told me that I had 4 internal incisions and 5 internal incisions. So that is 1 reason!

You are removing an organ. This is the 2nd reason.

They have to cauterize all the blood supply and stitch things back together - #3

Your other organs do not like to be touched. But removing your uterus leaves the doctors very little choice. So your bladder and bowels are not happy - #4

You are under general anesthesia - #5

Like you mentioned, it takes time to heal - #6

Medically minor surgery is any surgical procedure that does not involve anesthesia or respiratory assistance during the surgical procedure, while major is Any surgical intervention that penetrates and exposes a body cavity; any procedure that has the potential for inducing permanent anatomic (physical) or physiologic impairment and/or any procedure associated with orthopedics or extensive tissue dissection or transection.


Now, having said all of this , I simply refused to think of it as major surgery until it was over! lol. I was too overwhelmed with the thought until after it was over.

But try to remember - it is truly major surgery. Be patient with yourself and your healing!!

Well written and very informative SaltyIceScater.........I have often wondered why many DO NOT realize it is major surgery......although I totally agree.......I did not see it as major surgery until it was over and the healing process reminded mmajor surgery as well......I had TAH / LSO.

Same boat here. I didn't think it was that major until after either. im glad I did though. I Feel better than ever!!!

It's major surgery because so many things can go wrong. Boo I'm still recovering.

I think denial is a wonderful coping mechanism. lol

After it is done, your body gives your mind no choice but to recognize - it was major surgery.

It is funny though. Your body may heal rather quickly. So you start feeling a little better and you forgot again. Or your body heals slowly and you feel like you should be further along.

I think as women we are way too hard on ourselves! We want to do all our superwoman activities right away. Not to prove a point but because that is what we do. Our families need us going at 200 miles per hour!!

I know it's major surgery, but healed so effortlessly that it never felt major. I also followed Dr's orders to the letter, & my general health allowed for a speedy recovery. I had just enough discomfort to remind me not to do stuff.

Yes I used the same 'coping mechanism' ;-) But thankfully nothing major did not go wrong though I do wish my body would hurry up and get better! Doesn't listen to me though

Anyway thanks for all your replies; esp saltyiceskater. Now I've SIX reasons to rattle off when I'm asked this question.

Saltyiceskater said it perfectly. I truly did not realize just how major this was until after. I am healthy and fit - and this surgery kicked my ***. I was prepared to need time to heal; but not nearly prepared enough for the time required.

And the prize has to go to Saltyiceskater - don't think my doc could have put it so well.

I didn't think about it as being quite so major but am still recovering, not necessarily physically but emotionally and my hormones and causing problems. Body just doesn't want to play same as it did pre op yet.