Laparoscopic Procedures - Hystesrectomy - Myomectomy
Cystectomy - Oophorectomy/Salpingectomy
Urodynamics for Urinary Incontinence

Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus or womb, which can sometimes include the ovaries and fallopian tubes as well.  This is the second most common procedure for women in the US and is performed over 600,000 times each year.  A hysterectomy stops the menstrual cycle and prevents pregnancy.  It is a permanent procedure that cannot be reversed.

A traditional hysterectomy may be performed through incisions in either the abdomen or vagina.  But new technology now allows for a simpler and less invasive procedure that leaves the patient with less pain and shorter recovery time. 

A laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH) makes tiny incisions in the abdomen where the doctor inserts a laparoscope, a thin lighted telescope, and other surgical instruments to carefully separate and then remove the uterus.  Unlike other hysterectomies, LSH leaves the cervix intact.  This can help reduce the risk of later complications such as pelvic floor prolapse and urinary incontinence. 

Candidates for Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
This type of hysterectomy is most often performed for patients with abnormal uterine bleeding or fibroids.  This procedure should not be performed on those with a history of cervical dysplasia or endometriosis near the cervix.  Your doctor will determine whether or not you are an ideal candidate for this procedure after a thorough evaluation of your uterus, medical history and overall health. 

Benefits of Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
As opposed to the traditional open procedure, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy offers patients many benefits as a result of the minimally invasive techniques employed.  This procedure involves smaller incisions, a shorter hospital stay, shorter recovery, and a reduced risk of complications.

There are also many benefits to leaving the cervix intact, including reducing the risk of pelvic floor prolapse, in which the pelvic organs move out of their normal position.  The cervix helps to maintain pelvic floor support for continuing gynecological health.  While some women may still experience periodic bleeding from keeping the cervix intact, the benefits often outweigh this minor frustration. 

It is important for women who undergo this procedure to continue to have annual Pap smears in order to screen for cervical cancer.

Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy Procedure
During a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, your doctor will create four to five small incisions across the abdomen, into which the laparoscope and tiny surgical instruments are inserted.  Carbon dioxide in then administered into the abdomen to allow the surgeon more room to operate and to reduce the risk of damage to surrounding organs. 

The surgical instruments are then used to remove the uterus, and the fallopian tubes and ovaries in some cases.  Dr. Quartell performs this procedure using robotic technology, which allows for greater precision and more accurate results with less damage to surrounding health structures.  The surgical instruments are inserted with robotic arms that are controlled by Dr. Quartell, as he views the inside of the abdomen on a television monitor.

Once the uterus is removed, the incisions are closed with no need for stitches because of their small size.  This procedure is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Recovery
After laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, patients can return home the same day or after an overnight hospital stay.  Most patients can usually resume their normal activities within a week, although physical activity should be avoided for longer.  Recovery is much faster and less painful than that experienced after a traditional hysterectomy.  Dr. Quartell will provide you with specific postoperative instructions to ensure a healthy and full recovery.

Risks and Complications
While laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy is considered a safe procedure for many patients, there are certain risks associated with any type of surgery.  Some of these risks may include bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia, as well as damage to the surrounding organs. A laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy is not for everyone, so check with your doctor to see if it is right for you.

To learn more about the laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy and how it can relieve symptoms of abnormal bleeding, fibroids and other painful conditions, please call us today to schedule a consultation.

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