Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy, which involves the surgical removal of the uterus, ranks as the second most frequent surgical procedure for females, following closely behind cesarean section (C-section).
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the United States boasts the highest rate of hysterectomy surgeries globally, with an annual count exceeding 600,000. Further statistics indicate that approximately 20 million American women have undergone a hysterectomy, and it is estimated that about one in every three women will experience this procedure by the time they reach the age of 60.
There are several medical reasons why a hysterectomy may be recommended by a healthcare provider. Some of the common indications for a hysterectomy include:
- Uterine Fibroids: These are benign growths in the uterus that can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic discomfort, and pressure on nearby organs. When fibroids reach a significant size or cause substantial symptoms, a hysterectomy may be considered as a treatment option.
- Endometriosis: This condition involves tissue similar to the uterine lining growing outside the uterus. Severe cases of endometriosis that do not respond to alternative treatments may necessitate a hysterectomy.
- Uterine Prolapse: This occurs when the uterus descends into the vaginal canal, causing discomfort, pelvic pressure, and urinary incontinence. In certain instances, a hysterectomy may be required to correct this condition.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain: When persistent pelvic pain believed to be linked to the uterus does not respond to other therapies, a hysterectomy may be suggested as a final recourse.
- Adenomyosis: This condition involves the endometrial tissue growing into the muscular wall of the uterus, leading to heavy bleeding and pain. In severe cases, a hysterectomy may be an option.
- Uterine Cancer: If cancer is detected within the uterus, a hysterectomy may be performed as part of the treatment, often in conjunction with other treatments like radiation or chemotherapy.
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Excessive or irregular menstrual bleeding that remains unresponsive to other treatments may result in a hysterectomy to alleviate symptoms and address underlying concerns.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): In cases of severe PID that do not improve with antibiotics and other therapies, a hysterectomy may be recommended to prevent the spread of infection and safeguard overall health.
- Preventive Measures: In some cases, a hysterectomy may be considered as a preventive measure for women with a strong family history of uterine or ovarian cancer, or if they have a genetic predisposition to these conditions.
Image Source: Cleveland Clinic
Types of Hysterectomy
There are various types of hysterectomy procedures, each with its own set of considerations.
New York Gynecology Surgery (NYGS) will engage in a comprehensive discussion with you, outlining the potential risks, benefits, and side effects associated with each option. It is crucial to schedule an appointment with NYGS about the advisability of removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes during your hysterectomy. The types of hysterectomies available include:
Total Hysterectomy: This procedure involves the complete removal of both the uterus and the cervix, and it is the most commonly performed type.
Partial Hysterectomy (also known as a supracervical hysterectomy): In this approach, only the uterus is removed, while the cervix is left intact. Ongoing research explores the advantages and drawbacks of preserving the cervix in this procedure.
Radical Hysterectomy: This comprehensive surgery entails the removal of the uterus, cervix, and the upper portion of the vagina. Radical hysterectomy is typically reserved for cases of cancer treatment.
How Long Does a Hysterectomy Take?
The duration of the procedure typically falls within a range of one to three hours.
This timeframe may vary based on factors such as the size of your uterus, the necessity to address scar tissue from prior surgeries, and whether additional tissues, such as endometrial tissue, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, need to be removed along with your uterus.
Laparoscopy in Hysterectomy: A Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach
Laparoscopy in hysterectomy represents a significant advancement in gynecological surgery, offering patients a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open procedures. This innovative approach involves making small incisions in the abdominal area, through which a laparoscope (a tiny camera) and specialized instruments are introduced to perform the surgery.
One of the key advantages of laparoscopic hysterectomy is the reduction in surgical trauma. Unlike open surgery, which necessitates a larger abdominal incision, laparoscopy minimizes tissue damage, resulting in less postoperative pain, reduced blood loss, and shorter hospital stays.
Moreover, patients often experience a quicker recovery and return to their daily activities sooner, making it an appealing option for those facing uterine conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or gynecological cancers.
The role of laparoscopy in hysterectomy extends beyond its minimally invasive nature. It provides surgeons with enhanced visualization and precision, allowing for meticulous removal of the uterus and, if necessary, surrounding tissues like the fallopian tubes or ovaries.
NYGS Approach
We recognize that facing a hysterectomy can be a daunting and emotionally challenging experience. At NYGS, we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our team of experienced gynecologists and healthcare professionals will stand by your side throughout this journey, offering support, answering your queries, and ensuring your comfort every step of the way.
Your well-being is our top priority, and we are dedicated to exceeding your expectations by delivering high-quality care and attention. If you or a loved one is considering or scheduled for a hysterectomy or has any concerns related to this procedure, please reach out to us promptly. We are here to provide guidance and support during this important decision-making process and throughout your entire treatment journey.
Pankaj Singhal, MD, MS, MHCM
- Industry expertise with over 12 years of experience in both academic & private health care settings, physician practice management and executive leadership.
- Trained over 45 gynecologic surgeons along with training fellows in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and gynecology oncology, and has developed cutting edge, new surgical techniques for endometriosis and laparoscopic surgeries.
- One of the very few surgeons who have completed over 5,718 robot-assisted gynecologic surgeries in the entire United States.
- Known for taking on the most challenging surgery cases that other doctors/centers turn away.
Hear From Our Clients
Joetta Simonette
On May 3, 2018 at Good Samarital Hospital, due to cancer, you performed ovarian surgery on me.
It is now 5 years since that date – 5 years of wellness that has been accomplished through the grace of God guiding your hands and the support of your team and my loving family.
You are an excellent, compassionate and caring doctor who was confident of a good outcome, and so it is!
Thank you, thank you for these past wonderful years. May God continue to bless you. You are in my prayers!
RG Petkos
Power couple Dr. Singhal & Dr. Mclean are amazing!! My experience with them has been absolutely wonderful. I highly recommend either of them for so many reasons mainly for helping me get back some quality of life with my successful full hysterectomy being better than I expected.
The process from the beginning with them was a pleasure and I had quite a challenge beforehand so I’m very grateful that quality, professional, caring doctors still exist!!
I especially appreciate their proactive approach and feel the combination of the care and expertise they provide make for successful outcomes!!
Kimberly Quinde
Dr. Singhal was the doctor who took care of my mother Ivonne Guevara. My mother had gone to 2 other doctors who refused to take care of her fibroid. She was in pain for years and her fibroid had grown really big without her knowing. When my mom went to Dr Singhal she was met with calmness and reassurance that everything will be ok and he would help her get better. Dr. Singhal was so kind and caring all throughout the process.
He took all her worries away and my mom highly recommends him. She hopes every doctor can be as great as Dr. Singhal.
Everyone in his office was so nice to my mom and it was a great experience given the circumstances.
Hospital Affiliations
Request an Appointment
"*" indicates required fields
English 
Spanish 
Chinese