Our Summary

This research focused on comparing the costs of different methods of hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) on a group of 656 patients who underwent the procedure for non-cancerous reasons at a hospital in Katowice, between 2016 and 2018. The researchers considered the costs of hospital stay, operation materials, medication, anesthesia, and medical staff, as well as the length of the operation and hospital stay.

The study found that transvaginal hysterectomies (where the uterus is removed through the vagina) were the least expensive. The cost was lower not only because of the procedure itself, but also because the patients had shorter hospital stays and recovered faster. The researchers concluded that more doctors should be trained in this less invasive method to make it available to more patients who need a hysterectomy.

FAQs

  1. What methods of hysterectomy were evaluated in this research?
  2. Why were transvaginal hysterectomies found to be the least expensive method?
  3. What are the recommendations of the researchers based on the findings of the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hysterectomy is to consider the less invasive transvaginal hysterectomy method, as it is not only less expensive but also results in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery. It’s important to discuss all available options with your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hysterectomy include those with:

  1. Uterine fibroids: Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or bowels.

  2. Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy periods, and infertility.

  3. Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing heavy bleeding and pain.

  4. Prolapse: Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus slips down into the vagina due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.

  5. Chronic pelvic pain: Hysterectomy may be recommended for patients with chronic pelvic pain that has not responded to other treatments.

  6. Abnormal uterine bleeding: Hysterectomy may be recommended for patients with abnormal uterine bleeding that does not respond to other treatments.

  7. Cancer: In some cases, hysterectomy may be recommended for patients with gynecological cancers such as uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer.

Timeline

Before the hysterectomy:

  • Patient meets with their doctor to discuss reasons for the procedure and potential risks and benefits
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative tests or evaluations
  • Patient may need to make arrangements for time off work, childcare, or other responsibilities
  • Patient may need to stop taking certain medications or adjust their diet prior to surgery

After the hysterectomy:

  • Patient will undergo the procedure, which can vary in length depending on the method used
  • Patient will recover in the hospital for a certain period of time, depending on the method used and individual factors
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and side effects such as fatigue, nausea, or vaginal bleeding
  • Patient will need to follow post-operative care instructions, including taking medication, resting, and avoiding certain activities
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor their recovery and address any concerns or complications

Overall, the goal of a hysterectomy is to improve the patient’s quality of life by addressing the underlying health issues that led to the procedure. The decision to undergo a hysterectomy is a personal one that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different types of hysterectomy procedures available, and which one do you recommend for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the hysterectomy procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery period for the hysterectomy procedure you are recommending?
  4. Will I need hormone replacement therapy after the hysterectomy?
  5. How will the hysterectomy affect my sexual function and pelvic floor health?
  6. Are there alternative treatment options to hysterectomy that I should consider?
  7. Will I still need regular gynecological screenings after the hysterectomy?
  8. How will the hysterectomy affect my future fertility and menopausal symptoms?
  9. What are the long-term effects of hysterectomy on my overall health?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the hysterectomy procedure?

Reference

Authors: Kala E, Stojko R, Sadlocha M. Journal: Ginekol Pol. 2018;89(12):672-676. doi: 10.5603/GP.a2018.0113. PMID: 30618034