What is Closed Hysterectomy (Laparoscopic Hysterectomy)? Methods, Benefits and Recovery Process

Closed hysterectomy, or medically known as laparoscopic hysterectomy, is the removal of the uterus by a minimally invasive surgical method called laparoscopy. Compared to traditional open surgeries, laparoscopic hysterectomy is performed with fewer incisions, a faster recovery process and less pain. This procedure is preferred in women with serious health problems related to the uterus and may involve the complete or partial removal of the uterus. It is especially performed for reasons such as myomas, uterine cancer, and excessive bleeding.

 

What is Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a type of surgery in which the uterus is removed using minimally invasive surgical methods. While a large incision is made in traditional open surgeries, small incisions are used in laparoscopic hysterectomy. The surgeon removes the uterus using a camera and special surgical instruments placed through these small incisions. This procedure usually offers the advantages of less bleeding, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays.

The Main Purpose of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy:

• Removal of the Uterus: The uterus may be removed due to problems such as uterine cancer, fibroids, excessive bleeding, and endometriosis.
• Partial or Total Hysterectomy: All or part of the uterus may be removed. In addition, in some cases, the fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be removed.

Closed hysterectomy is a widely preferred method for solving many serious health problems for women.

Why is Closed Hysterosalpingography Performed?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy can be performed to solve various health problems. Structural problems in the uterus or conditions such as cancer usually require surgery.

Main Reasons for Closed Hysterosalpingography:

• Excessive Bleeding: If excessive bleeding due to hormonal imbalances or structural problems in the uterus cannot be controlled, the uterus may be removed.
• Myomas: Fibroids, which are benign tumors that form in the uterus, may require removal of the uterus depending on their size and symptoms.
• Uterine Cancer: Uterine cancer diagnosed at an early stage can be treated with hysterectomy.
• Endometriosis: Tissue outside the uterus growths (endometriosis) can be treated with hysterectomy.

The reason for the surgery is evaluated by the doctor according to the person's general health status and the course of the disease.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Types

Laparoscopic hysterectomy can be performed in different ways depending on which part of the uterus is to be removed. Each type is determined according to the patient's health status and the doctor's recommendations.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Types:

1. Complete Hysterectomy: This is a type of surgery in which the entire uterus and the cervix are also removed.
2. Partial Hysterectomy: Only the upper part of the uterus is removed, leaving the cervix. This type of surgery is preferred in certain cases.
3. Radical Hysterectomy: In severe cases such as cancer, the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries and some surrounding tissues are removed.

The type of surgery is selected according to the spread and severity of the disease.

How is Closed Hysterosalpingography Performed?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. During the surgery, several small incisions are made in the abdomen and a camera and surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions. The surgery is usually performed in the following steps:

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Step by Step:

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is applied and the patient is put to sleep.
2. Making Small Incisions: Several incisions, usually 1 cm, are made in the abdomen.
3. Inserting the Laparoscope and Instruments: The laparoscope (a small camera) is inserted into the abdomen through these incisions. The surgeon can see inside through this camera.
4. Removal of the Uterus: The uterus is removed in small pieces or as a whole.
5. Suture and Closure: The incisions are closed with stitches and the surgery is completed.

The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours and the patient can be discharged the same day or the next day.

LBenefits of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Laparoscopic hysterectomy offers many advantages over traditional open surgery. These benefits help patients feel more comfortable and recover faster during the post-operative period.

Main Benefits of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy:

• Smaller Incisions: Smaller incisions provide fewer scars and aesthetic advantages.
• Less Pain: Less pain is felt compared to open surgery.
• Fast Recovery Process: Patients usually recover in a shorter time after surgery and can return to their normal activities.
• Less Bleeding: The amount of bleeding is usually less in laparoscopic methods.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Most patients can be discharged within a day after surgery.

These advantages have made laparoscopic hysterectomy a popular surgical option.

Post-Operative Recovery Process

The recovery period after laparoscopic hysterectomy is shorter and more comfortable compared to open surgeries. However, there are some important points to consider during the post-operative process.

Post-Operative Things to Consider:

• Rest: It is important to rest for the first few days. However, light walks can speed up the healing process.
• Pain Management: There may be mild pain after surgery. Painkillers prescribed by the doctor may be used.
• Avoid Heavy Lifting: Heavy lifting should be avoided during the recovery period. It is generally recommended to avoid heavy physical activities for 4-6 weeks.
• Avoid Sexual Intercourse: Sexual intercourse should be avoided after surgery. Sexual intercourse can usually be resumed after 4-6 weeks.
• Stitch Care: It is important to keep the area clean to prevent the incisions from becoming infected.

The full recovery period is usually 4-6 weeks, but following the doctor's personal recommendations will speed up the process.

Risks of Closed Hysterosalpingography

As with any surgical procedure, laparoscopic hysterectomy carries some risks. However, these risks are minimal and are usually rare when performed by experienced surgeons.

Possible Risks:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery, as in every surgical procedure.
• Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during or after surgery.
• Organ Damage: During laparoscopic surgery, adjacent organs (bladder, intestines, etc.) may be damaged.
• Tissue Sensitivity: Temporary pain or sensitivity may occur in the postoperative area.

Paying attention to the doctor's recommendations after surgery helps minimize these risks.

Closed Hysterectomy and Sexual Life

Returning to sexual life after laparoscopic hysterectomy usually occurs after a 4-6 week recovery period. Removal of the uterus can provide positive changes in sexual life.

Effects on Sexual Life:

• Increased Sexual Pleasure: The elimination of disturbing symptoms after surgery can increase sexual pleasure.
• Sexual Self-Confidence: Sexual self-confidence can be regained with recovery after surgery.
• Comfort: Pain and discomfort due to problems in the uterus disappear, which can positively affect sexual life.

It is important to wait the period recommended by the doctor to return to sexual life after surgery.

Preparation for Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Before laparoscopic hysterectomy, it is important for patients to be well prepared for the surgery. The doctor's recommendations should be taken into consideration during the preparation process.

Things to Do Before Surgery:

• Blood Tests and Imaging: Necessary blood tests and imaging procedures are performed before surgery.
• Food and Medication: It may be necessary not to eat or drink water the night before surgery. In addition, medications recommended by the doctor should be taken regularly.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol should be avoided during the pre-operative period, as they may negatively affect the healing process.lir.

It is important for the patient to receive all information about the surgery before the surgery and to prepare appropriately for the preparation process.

Suitable Candidates for Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a suitable treatment method for many women with uterine health problems. However, not every patient may be suitable for this surgery.

Suitable Candidates:

• Women with Myomas or Polyps: Women with benign tumors (myomas) in the uterus.
• Those at Risk for Uterine Cancer: Women who have been diagnosed with cancer or are at risk for uterine cancer.
• Those with Excessive Bleeding Problems: Women who have excessive uterine bleeding problems and do not respond to other treatment methods.
• Those with Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain: Those who experience severe pain due to endometriosis women.

A detailed evaluation with your doctor is necessary to determine if you are a candidate for laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Permanence of Closed Hysterectomy

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a permanent treatment because the uterus is completely or partially removed with surgery. However, this surgery may cause some complications after menopause or with hormonal changes.

Permanent Results After Surgery:

• After Hysterosalpingography: After hysterosalpingography, menstrual bleeding stops and other health problems related to the uterus do not reoccur.
• Aging and Hormonal Changes: Menopause or hormonal changes may cause some changes in the vaginal tissues, but the results of the surgery are permanent.

In order for the results of the surgery to be permanent, attention should be paid to the follow-up examinations recommended by the doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does laparoscopic hysterectomy take?

The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours, and the patient can usually be discharged the same day or the next day.

2. What is the recovery period after surgery?

Full recovery usually takes 4-6 weeks, but light activities can be done within a few days.

3. When can sexual intercourse begin after laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Sexual activity can be resumed after the doctor's approval.

4. Is the surgery painful?

There may be mild pain after the surgery, but this pain can usually be controlled with painkillers.

5. What are the risks of laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Risks such as infection, bleeding and organ damage can be seen, although rare.

6. Are the results of the surgery permanent?

Yes, surgery provides permanent results. Removal of the uterus prevents the recurrence of problems related to the uterus.