GYNECOLOGY:

 fibroid surgery

There are two types of surgery that can be performed to remove uterine fibroids--myectomy and hysterectomy.  One is a permanent solution, while the other is less invasive. The surgeons associated with Women’s Health at Saint John’s Health Center are experts in the field and will discuss best options with each patient.

Myomectomy

In this surgical procedure, a surgeon removes the fibroids, leaving the uterus in place. For women who want to bear children, this is the best option. With myomectomy, as opposed to a hysterectomy, there is a risk of fibroid recurrence.

There are several ways a myomectomy can be done:

• Laparoscopic myomectomy. If the fibroids are small and few in number, the patient and her doctor may opt for a laparoscopic procedure, which uses slender instruments inserted through small incisions in the abdomen to remove the fibroids from the uterus.

• Robotic myomectomy. A minimally invasive surgical procedure in which the surgeon uses a “robot” to operate.  This advanced technology allows for greater precision and control, and minimizes the pain and risk of infection to patients.

• Resectoscope myomectomy. This procedure may be an option if the fibroids are contained inside the uterus. A hysteroscope is passed through the vagina and cervix and into the uterus, allowing the doctor to see and remove the fibroids through the scope.

• Abdominal myomectomy. If a woman has multiple fibroids, very large or very deep fibroids, her doctor may use an open abdominal surgical procedure to remove the fibroids.

Hysterectomy

This operation — the removal of the uterus — should be the last option considered. It is major surgery and ends a woman’s ability to bear children. If she elects to also have her ovaries removed, it brings on menopause.