Hysterectomy Defined

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus, otherwise known as the womb. Rarely is a hysterectomy an emergency surgery. There is usually considerable time to research and explore options for discussions with your personal surgeon.

Description of Hysterectomy

During a hysterectomy the uterus is completely or partially removed. The fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be removed depending on the health needs of the woman.

Total Hysterectomy

A total hysterectomy is removal of the entire uterus which includes the cervix. A radical hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, the tissue on both sides of the cervix (parametrium), and the upper part of the vagina.

Partial Hysterectomy

A partial (or supracervical) hysterectomy is removal of just the upper portion of the uterus, leaving the cervix intact.

Hysterectomy Types

A hysterectomy may be done through an abdominal incision (abdominal hysterectomy)

A hysterectomy may be done through a vaginal incision (vaginal hysterectomy)

A hysterectomy may be done completely through laparoscopic incisions (small incisions on the abdomen -- laparoscopic hysterectomy).

A hysterectomy may be done completely through the use of a robotic surgical device through small incisions in the abdomen (da Vinci® hysterectomy).

Your physician will help you decide which type of hysterectomy is most appropriate for you, depending on your medical history and the reason for your surgery.