A hysterectomy – the removal of the uterus – is a surgical procedure that was traditionally performed through a large incision in the abdomen. Technological and medical advances, however, allow surgeons to remove the uterus through less invasive methods, such as laparoscopic and robotic. hysterectomy.

What is laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy still uses incisions in the abdomen to perform the procedure. However, these incisions are much smaller than those used for a traditional abdominal hysterectomy.  Through these incisions, the surgeon inserts a tiny flexible camera and other surgical tools. In the vast majority of cases, the uterus is removed vaginally to further minimize incision sizes and the risks of other problems. There are several types of hysterectomy that can be performed either through an open, laparoscopic, or robotic approach.

Total hysterectomy

Total hysterectomy is the most common type and involves the complete removal of the uterus and cervix.

Subtotal hysterectomy

In this procedure, only one part is removed – usually the top or body of the uterus. Your cervix stays in place.

Radical hysterectomy

Radical hysterectomy involves removing the uterus, cervix, tissue around the cervix (parauterine), and the upper part of the vagina.

With any of these types of hysterectomy, the fallopian tubes and ovaries may or may not be removed depending on the case.

Who might need a hysterectomy?

There are several reasons why your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy. These include:

• fibroids of the uterus
• heavy or abnormal uterine bleeding;
• uterine prolapse
• endometriosis
• adenomyosis
• cancer

What are the benefits of laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Classic open hysterectomy requires the use of large incisions in the abdomen to remove the uterus. Laparoscopic procedures such as laparoscopic hysterectomy are characterized by reduced pain, reduced risk of complications and reduced recovery time. Other benefits of this type of surgery include:

• less blood loss 
• smaller scars
• shorter hospital stay

What is recovery like after a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Recovery times are different for each person and depend on the specific type of hysterectomy performed, but overall, laparoscopic and especially robotic-assisted procedures reduce recovery time, length of hospital stay, blood loss, and risk of other problems compared to traditional hysterectomies. One of the main reasons behind the improvement in recovery time and success is the size of the surgical incision.

What are the possible risks of a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

The potential risks of a laparoscopic hysterectomy are similar to other types of hysterectomy, including:

• reactions to anesthesia
• bleeding
• inflammation
• venous thrombosis
• damage to adjacent tissues or organs

Before the surgery, there will be a discussion about the possible benefits and risks of the operation so that you can make your decision after being fully informed. In some cases, a robotic or laparoscopic surgery may need to be converted to an open procedure. 

What is the difference between a robotic hysterectomy and a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

In a laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon directly controls the tools used to perform it. With the robotically assisted technique, the surgeon will sit at a console, controlling the robotic arms that perform the operation.