Vaginal Hysterectomy vs. Abdominal Hysterectomy

A vaginal hysterectomy is less invasive than an abdominal hysterectomy. There are benefits to vaginal hysterectomy, but both types of surgery have risks. There are also some reasons a surgeon may not perform a vaginal hysterectomy. Find out more about vaginal hysterectomy versus abdominal hysterectomy.

Benefits of Vaginal Hysterectomy versus Abdominal Hysterectomy. A vaginal hysterectomy is less invasive than abdominal hysterectomy as the uterus is removed through a small slit in the vagina rather than the larger incision through the abdomen.

The hospital stay is usually shorter and healing duration is generally shortened by about two weeks when a hysterectomy is performed vaginally. There is also a reduced risk of major blood loss requiring a blood transfusing with a vaginal hysterectomy.

Both Types of Hysterectomy Have Risks. As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, blood clots, blood loss and trouble with anesthesia, among others. After any type of hysterectomy, there could be moderate to severe pain that should pass in time. Also, fatigue from the surgery could last for several weeks.

Vaginal hysterectomy has the increased risk of urinary tract infections and bowel and bladder trouble caused by limited visibility for the surgeon. Other organs could be perforated as well, but are generally repaired immediately when noticed by the surgeon. The use of a laparascope in a laparoscopically-assisted vaginal hysterectomy can increase visibility within the abdominal cavity.

When an Abdominal Hysterectomy May Be Preferred. Your surgeon my recommend an abdominal hysterectomy for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons include cancer or a very enlarged uterus. Your physician will take into account past issues and surgeries when deciding which type of hysterectomy would be best.

A vaginal hysterectomy may be aborted and an abdominal incision made during the surgery. This could happen if the uterus is larger than expected or if the surgeon encounters complications, such as adhesions. Adhesions are strands of tissue that can attach organs together or to the abdominal wall. This could make it difficult for the surgeon to use the instruments properly without the larger area an abdominal incision provides.

Vaginal Hysterectomy versus Abdominal Hysterectomy. Your physician should discuss the risks and benefits of both types of hysterectomy with you prior to your surgery to see which best suits your needs.

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