Vaginal Hysterectomy

DEFINITION

Removal of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries through an incision in the vagina.
This surgery is frequently accompanied by a plastic surgery to repair weakened bladder and rectal muscles in a case of Prolapse uterus (aka - colporrhaphy)

REASONS FOR SURGERY

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

ANESTHESIA

General or Spinal anesthesia.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

  • The vaginal walls are separated from the bladder muscles and rectal muscles.
  • The deepest recesses of the vagina are opened. The cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries are cut free and removed. The rear part of the vagina is closed with sutures.
  • The bladder muscles and rectal muscles are sewn back in place. Supporting tissue is repaired.
  • A small catheter is left in the bladder for 7 to 10 days.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Excessive bleeding.
  • Wound infection.
  • Muscles supporting bladder and rectum may require a second repair.
  • Inadvertent damage to bladder, rectum or ureters.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY

5 to 7 days.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Sutures will fall out of the vagina, ignore them.

MEDICATION

Your doctor may prescribe

ACTIVITY

  • Resume work and normal activity as soon as possible.
  • Resume driving 2 weeks after returning home.
  • Resume sexual relations as soon as able.

DIET

Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well-balanced, high-protein diet.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY, IF

  • Vaginal bleeding that soaks more than 1 pad per hour.
  • Frequent urge to urinate or excessive vaginal discharge that persists longer than 1 month.
  • Increased pain or swelling in the operated area.
  • Signs of infection eg headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
  • Abdominal swelling or pain.