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This week on Healthwatch, we've been talking about women's health issues. Previously, we discussed a new way of performing hysterectomies, in which the uterus and ovaries can be removed using only a few tiny incisions. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center say this results in less pain and a shorter recovery time, but there are other benefits to doing the procedure this way.
Unlike in traditional hysterectomies, the cervix isn't removed along with the uterus. This may help preserve pelvic floor function, which can prevent the incontinence many women experience after a hysterectomy. Dr. Mayra Thompson, a UT Southwestern gynecologist, says it may also help women avoid losing some sexual function.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy may not be an option for women who have large fibroids, cancer, cervical abnormalities or multiple previous abdominal surgeries.
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June 2005
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