Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Recovery Time

Gone are the days when hysterectomy and other major surgeries were performed by entering the body cavity through incisions. The recovery also took a longer time and the patient had a prolonged hospital stay, till the sutures were removed and the wound healed partially. But nowadays, thanks to a breakthrough in modern medicine, laparoscopic surgery has come into existence. This surgical procedure is very different from the standard surgery and involves the insertion of a laparoscope and correcting the disorder. Laparoscopic hysterectomy is done in the same manner.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is a gynecological procedure which involves the surgical removal of the uterus. This process is done in order to correct the problems in the uterus. Hysterectomy may be performed in case of uterine fibroids, excessive menstrual bleeding, endometriosis etc. Women suffering from cervical or uterine cancer may also be required to undergo this gynecological surgery to prevent the cancer from spreading. Depending on the seriousness of the condition, two types of hysterectomy surgeries are performed - total and partial hysterectomy. In total hysterectomy, which is also known as complete hysterectomy, the fundus of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix etc. are removed. On the other hand, in partial hysterectomy, only the uterine body is removed. This procedure is also called supracervical hysterectomy.

In the traditional hysterectomy, a long incision would be made on the abdomen, following which the diseased parts are removed. This procedure is done when the uterus has become enlarged or if the surgeon wants to inspect the other organs in the pelvic region. This is done by making a horizontal or vertical incision. After the hysterectomy surgery has been completed, the doctor closes the incision by sutures and staples. Nowadays, a modern method called laparoscopic hysterectomy has been introduced as a treatment. Laparoscopic hysterectomy is carried out through small incisions on the abdomen. This advanced procedure is done with the help of specialized medical tools and an instrument called a laparoscope. The laparoscope is fitted with a camera which helps the surgeon to view the location of the abnormalities in the uterus and other organs. Once the abnormality is detected, a specialized tool in inserted into the body and surgery is carried out. After the surgery, the incisions are sealed with stitches.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Recovery Period

Since the traditional method involves a long incision to address the problem, the patient may be required to stay in the hospital for a couple of weeks. The recovery period is also a long and slow process which may also be painful. The patient may have to stay in the hospital till the stitches are removed and the wound heals. The abdominal hysterectomy recovery that is done in the traditional method is approximately 6 to 7 weeks. There are also many alterations in the diet of the patient. Since the modern laparoscopic hysterectomy is carried out through small incisions in the abdomen, the recovery time for hysterectomy through a laparoscope is comparatively quicker and takes about three weeks for the patient to resume routine activities. Total laparoscopic hysterectomy is done through keyhole sized incisions near the navel. Hence the total laparoscopic hysterectomy recovery is almost two weeks. In some cases, patients recover faster, even in a week's time.

It is always helpful to be aware of the side effects of hysterectomy if you are going to undergo this surgical procedure, so that unwanted complications can be avoided. Wish you good health and take care!