This post discusses the basic surgical procedures for fibroids, including myomectomy and hysterectomy. We explore these surgical options, their benefits, and potential risks.

Surgical Procedures for Fibroids

Surgical intervention may be recommended when non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief or when fibroids are causing severe symptoms. 

Two common surgical procedures for fibroids are myomectomy and hysterectomy. Let’s start by discussing myomectomy.

Myomectomy

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure involving removing fibroids while preserving the uterus.

It is typically performed for women wishing to retain their fertility or wanting to keep their uterus. Let’s explore the benefits and potential risks associated with myomectomy.

Benefits of Myomectomy

1. Uterus Preservation: Myomectomy allows women to keep their uterus, which is important for future pregnancies or personal reasons.
2. Fertility Preservation: For women who desire to have children, myomectomy can preserve fertility by removing fibroids that may interfere with conception or cause complications during pregnancy.
3. Symptom Relief: Myomectomy can alleviate symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure by removing the fibroids responsible for these issues.

Potential Risks of Myomectomy

1. Bleeding: Myomectomy may involve significant bleeding during the procedure; in some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
2. Scar Tissue Formation: Like any surgical procedure, myomectomy carries the risk of developing scar tissue, which can sometimes lead to fertility issues or pelvic pain.
3. Fibroid Recurrence: Although myomectomy removes existing fibroids, new fibroids can still develop in the future.

Now, let’s discuss the second surgical option for fibroids: hysterectomy.

Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure involving womb removal.

Doctors consider this procedure definitive, as it eliminates the possibility of fibroid recurrence.

However, it is typically for women who have completed their childbearing or have severe symptoms that do not respond to other treatments. Let’s explore the benefits and potential risks associated with hysterectomy.

Benefits of Hysterectomy

1. Fibroid Elimination: Hysterectomy provides a permanent solution to fibroids by removing the uterus, eliminating the possibility of fibroid recurrence.
2. Symptom Relief: Hysterectomy can significantly relieve heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure caused by fibroids.
3. Treatment of Other Conditions: In addition to fibroids, hysterectomy can treat other conditions such as endometriosis or adenomyosis if present.

Potential Risks of Hysterectomy

1. Surgical Risks: Hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure with general risks, including bleeding, infection, and anaesthesia-related complications.
2. Loss of Fertility: The procedure results in permanent infertility since a hysterectomy involves the removal of the womb. Therefore, it is crucial to consider this aspect before opting for a hysterectomy.
3. Hormonal Changes: Hysterectomy may lead to hormonal changes, particularly if the surgery also removes the ovaries. This can result in menopause-like symptoms in premenopausal women.

Considerations & Conclusion

It’s important to remember that the choice of surgical procedure depends on individual circumstances, such as fertility desires, severity of symptoms, and overall health.

Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial in determining each person’s most appropriate surgical option.

Understanding the benefits and potential risks of surgical options for fibroids can help you make informed decisions about your next steps.

More Reading

• Doc’s Corner – Adhesions following Myomectomy.
• Benefits of Asking 7 Simple Questions About Painful Fibroids
• Fibroids and Menopause – Do they SHRINK with age?

Editing by AskAwayHealth Team

Disclaimer

All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising  Medical Practitioners to help promote quality healthcare. The advice in our material is not meant to replace a qualified healthcare practitioner’s management of your specific condition.
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