Hysterectomy
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Women's Clinic of the Rio Grande Valley
Gynecology & Obstetrics located in McAllen, TX & Edinburg, TX
Although used less often than in years past, hysterectomy remains an available treatment option for several gynecologic conditions. Fernando Otero, MD, of Women's Clinic of the Rio Grande Valley in McAllen and Edinburg, Texas, is highly skilled in the latest hysterectomy techniques and has performed hundreds of these procedures. If you have questions or concerns about hysterectomy or other gynecologic treatments, schedule a visit with Dr. Otero today, either online or by phone.
Hysterectomy Q & A
What is a hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove your uterus. If needed, other reproductive organs can be removed in the same procedure. This approach was once the standard treatment for a wide range of gynecologic conditions, but there are many less invasive options available today that offer effective treatment paths.
There are several ways to perform a hysterectomy, and Dr. Otero will discuss your options in detail before you decide on a treatment plan. One option removes just the upper portion of your uterus, leaving your cervix in place.
Another approach removes your entire uterus and your cervix. In the most extreme cases, your uterus, cervix, the upper portion of the vagina, and additional surrounding tissue are all removed. With all types of hysterectomy, your ovaries can also be removed or left in place.
Why would I need a hysterectomy?
Many gynecologic conditions can be treated via hysterectomy, but less invasive treatments are usually attempted first. Some issues that can eventually lead to hysterectomy include:
- Painful or persistent uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Uterine prolapse
- Adenomyosis, which is thickening of the uterus
Uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer can also necessitate a hysterectomy. In cases where a cancer is aggressive or has already advanced to a later stage, hysterectomy may be the best treatment path.
How is a hysterectomy performed?
Dr. Otero has several options when performing a hysterectomy. Open abdominal surgery is one approach, and that approach gives him an excellent view of your reproductive organs and surrounding tissues.
Some hysterectomies can be performed laparoscopically using a thin tube equipped with a light and camera and a series of thin surgical tools. This approach requires only a few small incisions and offers a faster recovery time.
In some cases, a surgeon can perform a hysterectomy through the vagina, and that procedure requires no external incisions. This is the least invasive option and offers the shortest recovery times.
Your surgical path depends on your unique set of treatment needs as well as your overall health. Dr. Otero discusses each option in detail, empowering you to make an informed decision about your health care.
To learn more about Dr. Otero’s experience in hysterectomy book an appointment today. Online scheduling is available, or you can always call to set up your visit.
