fibroid causes
- Pelvic pain.
- Pressure on the bladder.
- Abnormal bleeding.
- Difficulty in becoming pregnant.
- Discomfort with sexual intercourse.
Pts more at risk of surgical complications:
- Obesity.
- Poor nutrition, especially inadequate iron intake that has
led to anemia.
- Illness that has reduced strength.
- Use of drugs such as: cortisone, antihypertensives,
beta-adrenergic blockers, or diuretics.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
In addition to pre-operative fitness, dilatation and curettage of the uterus (D & C), laparoscopy, X-rays of abdomen, barium-enema
X-rays, intravenous pyelogram.
DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION
- An incision is made in the lower abdomen and the uterus is
exposed.
- Fibroid tumors are located.
- Each tumor is removed separately and the uterus repaired.
- The skin is closed with sutures or skin clips, which can
be removed about 4 to 7 days after surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Excessive bleeding
- Surgical-wound infection.
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY
3 to 5 days.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
The uterus is left intact, and patient still gets
periods. Next period may be heavier than usual, but should occur at about the expected
time.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision
gently with mild soap.
MEDICATION
Your doctor may prescribe:
- Pain relievers. Don't take prescription pain medication
longer than 4 to 7 days. Use ONLY as much as you need.
- Vaginal creams, if vaginal discharge
develops an unpleasant odour.
- You may use non-prescription drugs, such as Paracetamol,
for minor pain.
ACTIVITY
Resume normal activity as soon as possible & resume
sexual relations when able.
DIET
Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract
functions again. Then eat a well-balanced, high-protein diet to promote healing.
VISIT YOUR DOCTOR, IF
- vaginal bleeding that soaks more than 1 pad per hour.
- Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a
general feeling of ill health and fever.
- Abdominal swelling or severe abdominal pain.
- The urge to urinate frequently persisting longer than 1 month.
- Excessive vaginal discharge beyond 1 month after surgery.
