Vaginal Hysterectomy Complications

Vaginal hysterectomy is a less invasive form of this surgical procedure than when the incision is made through the abdomen. Although there are less risks associated with vaginal hysterectomy compared with abdominal hysterectomy, there is still a chance for vaginal hysterectomy complications.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, vaginal hysterectomy offers fewer complications than abdominal hysterectomy. A few of the benefits of having the surgery performed vaginally include generally requires a shorter hospital stay, quicker healing time and less risk of major blood loss requiring transfusion.

However, vaginal hysterectomy is still major surgery and there is a risk for complications. Vaginal hysterectomy has some of the same complications as abdominal hysterectomy including blood loss, spotting, post-surgery infection, blood clots and problems with anesthesia.

There are also complications more likely to occur with a vaginal hysterectomy than with an abdominal hysterectomy. These may include vaginal prolapse and painful intercourse due to healing problems with the vaginal incision.

Internal organs may be damaged with the removal of the uterus through the vagina. This can be due to decreased visibility of the inside of the abdomen, if the uterus is larger than expected, or for any unforeseen complication within the abdomen. The risk of these complications may be reduced with the use of a laparoscope in a laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy.

There is also a risk for urinary tract infection, bladder problems and bowel issues that may include prolapse, twisting or blockage caused as the uterus is removed.

You can see some actual pictures of a vaginal hysterectomy from the Atlanta Center for Laparascopic Urogynecology. Be aware these pictures are graphic and nature and do show the vaginal opening.

During vaginal hysterectomy surgery, the doctor may end up having to perform an emergency abdominal hysterectomy. This could occur if the uterus is too large or if there are other issues in the abdominal area such as adhesions which may prevent the removal of the uterus through the smaller vaginal incision.

There are both benefits and risks for vaginal hysterectomy as with any surgery. Speak with your surgeon to be aware of possible vaginal hysterectomy complications.

THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT REPLACE THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN.

References:

Dicker, RC, et al.; Complications of abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy among women of reproductive age in the United States; Am J Obstet Gynecol; PubMed.gov

Dr. John Mikos & Dr. Robert Moore; Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy; Atlanta Center for Laparoscopic Urogynecology