Our Summary

This paper is about a study on whether it’s possible for patients to be discharged from hospital on the same day they have a minimally invasive hysterectomy (a smaller operation to remove the uterus). The researchers looked at 15 different studies involving almost 12,000 patients. They found that most patients could go home on the same day as their surgery. But, some things made it less likely for patients to leave hospital on the same day. This included being older, having surgery late in the day, the operation taking a long time, and losing a lot of blood during surgery. The researchers concluded that same-day discharge is possible for most patients if there is good planning before the surgery and the right patients are chosen.

FAQs

  1. Is it possible for patients to be discharged the same day they have a minimally invasive hysterectomy?
  2. What factors may prevent a patient from being discharged on the same day of their hysterectomy surgery?
  3. How can patients increase their chances of being discharged on the same day of their minimally invasive hysterectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hysterectomy is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting before surgery, stopping certain medications as advised, and ensuring you have a support system in place for after the procedure. It is also important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hysterectomy include those with:

  • Severe or chronic pelvic pain
  • Endometriosis
  • Fibroids
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Uterine prolapse
  • Gynecologic cancer
  • Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Adenomyosis

It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and medical history with their healthcare provider to determine if a hysterectomy is the best treatment option for their condition.

Timeline

  • Before hysterectomy:
  1. Patient consults with their gynecologist or surgeon to discuss the need for a hysterectomy and the potential risks and benefits.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing such as blood work, imaging, and possibly a physical exam to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Patient may need to stop taking certain medications or follow specific dietary guidelines in the days leading up to the surgery.
  4. Patient may need to make arrangements for someone to drive them to and from the hospital and assist with their care at home after the surgery.
  5. Patient arrives at the hospital on the day of the surgery and undergoes the procedure under anesthesia.
  • After hysterectomy:
  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored for any immediate post-operative complications.
  2. Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight for observation, depending on their individual recovery and the type of hysterectomy performed.
  3. Patient receives pain medication and is encouraged to walk and move around to prevent blood clots and aid in recovery.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital once their pain is adequately controlled, they are able to eat and drink, and they can walk independently.
  5. Patient is given instructions for at-home care, including how to care for their incision site, when to follow up with their surgeon, and any restrictions on activity or lifting.
  6. Patient may experience side effects such as pain, fatigue, and changes in bowel or bladder function in the weeks following the surgery.
  7. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and follows up with their healthcare provider for post-operative appointments to monitor their recovery and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different types of hysterectomy procedures available and which one is recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a hysterectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery period after a hysterectomy and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need hormone replacement therapy after the surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with a hysterectomy?
  6. How will a hysterectomy affect my future fertility and sexual function?
  7. What are the long-term effects of a hysterectomy on my overall health?
  8. How many hysterectomies have you performed and what is your success rate?
  9. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my recovery?
  10. Will I be able to go home on the same day as the surgery, and if not, how long will I need to stay in the hospital?

Reference

Authors: Korsholm M, Mogensen O, Jeppesen MM, Lysdal VK, Traen K, Jensen PT. Journal: Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2017 Feb;136(2):128-137. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.12023. Epub 2016 Nov 11. PMID: 28099736