Updates

Total Vaginal Hysterectomy

09/06/2023 Conditions

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A total vaginal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure during which a woman’s uterus and cervix are removed through the vagina.

Vaginal hysterectomies are the most minimally invasive approach available for hysterectomy since they are performed through a natural route with no external incisions.

At the Pavilion for Women we believe that a vaginal approach for hysterectomy should be considered for all women, and performed when feasible.

Advantages of Vaginal Hysterectomy

Vaginal hysterectomies offer a safer, proven alternative with numerous patient benefits compared to traditional open surgery, and all types of laparoscopic hysterectomy.

An open abdominal hysterectomy requires a large abdominal incision. A single-site laparoscopic hysterectomy is completed through a medium-sized incision at the navel. Laparoscopic hysterectomies typically involve three to four small incisions on the abdomen.

A vaginal approach is the only hysterectomy route that does not require an abdominal incision. Vaginal hysterectomies generally result in fewer complications than abdominal and laparoscopic approaches.

Patient benefits include:

  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Faster recovery and return to normal activities
  • Less post-operative pain
  • No visible scarring, since there is no external incision
  • Less blood loss
  • Lower rates of infection and venous thromboembolism (blood clots in the legs and lungs)

Conditions Treated

Total vaginal hysterectomies may be used to treat conditions that include:

  • Uterine prolapse or pelvic support problems (fallen or sagging organs)
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Uterine polyps
  • Endometriosis
  • Endometrial hyperplasia (pre-cancerous cells in the lining of the uterus)
  • Uterine and cervical cancer for some patients
  • Severe menstrual cramps that do not improve with more conservative therapies

How It Works

In a total vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus is removed through the vagina using an incision concealed at the top of the vagina. The surgeon uses this incision to introduce surgical instruments to detach the uterus and cervix and remove them through the vaginal opening. Fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be removed through the same incision during the surgery, decreasing the risk of ovarian cancer. The incision at the top of the vagina is then closed using dissolvable stitches.

Know Your Options

Not all women are candidates for a vaginal hysterectomy. Talk with your OB/GYN about your treatment options and preferences.

Why Choose the Pavilion for Women?

Our physicians are dedicated to treating women’s gynecologic conditions using the safest, most conservative approach, individualized for each patient based on their unique needs and clinical findings. We treat medically whenever possible to avoid the need for surgery.

When a hysterectomy is needed, we offer:

  • A commitment to using the safest, most effective, least invasive procedure, for the best possible outcomes
  • Highly skilled and experienced surgeons
  • The latest minimally invasive procedures and techniques
  • Expertise in treating the most complex cases, often with minimally invasive options
  • State-of-the-art surgical facilities specifically designed, equipped and staffed for women’s OB/GYN needs

For More Information or a Second Opinion

Our gynecologic surgeons are experienced in performing the full range of hysterectomy procedures – and in determining which approach is right for you. We welcome an opportunity to answer any questions you may have.

The Pavilion for Women offers three well-respected private OB/GYN practices to choose from: