Hysterectomies are the second most common procedure women of reproductive age undergo. If you’re concerned about your gynecological health and think you may need a hysterectomy, knowing the ins and outs of all your surgical options may help alleviate some of your concerns. Dr. Darin L. Weyhrich is specially trained to perform minimally-invasive laparoscopic hysterectomies. To make an appointment, call the office in Boise, Idaho, or schedule it online.
There are a number of health issues women experience that may indicate a need for a hysterectomy, which is the surgical removal of the uterus. However, because it’s a major surgery, Dr. Weyhrich may suggest other treatments before he recommends a hysterectomy.
Conditions that may warrant a hysterectomy include:
There are three types of hysterectomies, and they’re classified by which organs or tissues are removed:
The ovaries and fallopian tubes may or may not be removed during a hysterectomy, depending on the individual situation.
The types of hysterectomy procedures include:
A laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally-invasive procedure that requires a few very small incisions in your abdomen. Dr. Weyhrich inserts a laparoscope, which is a thin instrument with a small camera, through one of the incisions. He then surgically removes your uterus and cervix, through one of the small incisions.
Whether you have a vaginal, laparoscopic, or open hysterectomy depends on your diagnosis and medical history. For Dr. Weyhrich, however, open surgery is a last resort and makes up only 5% of his hysterectomies.
A laparoscopic or vaginal hysterectomy may be preferable for most women when compared to an open hysterectomy. You’ll experience less pain and a shorter recovery time with either of these procedures, which means you’ll be back on your feet faster.
A laparoscopic or vaginal hysterectomy also requires a shorter hospital stay, and in most cases, may be done as a same-day surgery. There’s also a lower risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, damage to internal organs and structures.