Table of Contents
- Summary
- What Are the Types of Hysterectomy?
- Total Simple Hysterectomy
- Subtotal (Supracervical) Hysterectomy
- Radical Hysterectomy
- Hysterectomy With Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (BSO)
- Familiarizing Yourself with Your Upcoming Surgery
Summary:
- The type of hysterectomy performed depends on individual medical needs and the specific reasons for surgery.
- Common types include total hysterectomy, subtotal (supracervical) hysterectomy, radical hysterectomy, and hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO).
- Your surgeon will explain the benefits, risks, and alternatives associated with the procedure, as well as discuss the removal of additional structures like the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
- Making informed decisions about your surgery is essential, and your healthcare team will support you throughout the process.
A hysterectomy is a significant surgical procedure that can be tailored to meet individual medical needs, with various types available depending on the specific reasons for surgery. Understanding the different types of hysterectomy, such as total, subtotal, radical, and those involving bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, is crucial for making informed decisions about your health.
Your surgeon will provide details of the procedure, including its benefits and risks, and will discuss the potential removal of other structures like the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
What Are the Types of Hysterectomy?
The type of hysterectomy and the method of performance will depend on the reason for your surgery. Your surgeon will explain the necessity of the procedure, including its benefits, risks, and alternatives. Additionally, your doctor will discuss whether they recommend removing other structures, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and cervix, along with the uterus.
Total Simple Hysterectomy
In a total (or simple) hysterectomy, both the uterus and cervix are removed, typically along with the fallopian tubes. The ovaries may be removed as well, but this is not always necessary.
Subtotal (Supracervical) Hysterectomy
The uterus will be removed while leaving the cervix in place, with the fallopian tubes typically being removed during this procedure. The ovaries may or may not be removed.
It is important to note–if the cervix remains, you will need to continue regular screening with Pap tests.
Radical Hysterectomy
This surgery is often performed in cases of certain cancers and involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, upper vagina, and surrounding lymph nodes. Typically, the fallopian tubes and ovaries are also removed during the procedure.
Hysterectomy With Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy (BSO)
Hysterectomy surgeries may also include the removal of the fallopian tubes and/or ovaries. Research suggests that some ovarian cancers can originate in the fallopian tubes, which is why most hysterectomies involve their removal.
The decision to remove the ovaries, however, should be made collaboratively with your surgeon. Based on factors such as your age, diagnosis, and family history, your surgeon may recommend ovary removal during your hysterectomy.
Familiarizing Yourself with Your Upcoming Surgery
The type of hysterectomy performed will be determined by your individual medical needs and the reasons for the surgery. Your surgeon will guide you through the various options, such as total, subtotal, or radical hysterectomy, and discuss the potential removal of additional structures like the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Understanding the factors influencing your surgery will empower you to make informed decisions in collaboration with your healthcare team.
