THE WOMEN’S HEALTH GROUP, P.C.

9195 Grant Street, Suite 410, Thornton, CO 80229

Phone: 303-280-2229 (BABY)

300 Exempla Circle, Suite 470, Lafayette, CO 80026

Phone: 303-665-6016

www.whg-pc.com

Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy (LSH)

LSH is a less invasive option for women considering a hysterectomy.  It is a relatively new technology that allows patients to undergo hysterectomy with less pain and a faster recovery.

How is it performed?

Several small incisions in the abdomen allow the physician to introduce laparoscopic instruments to remove the uterus while leaving the cervix intact.  The fallopian tubes and ovaries can also be removed in the same fashion if necessary.  A laparoscope is a camera that is introduced into the abdomen and provides magnification.  Many people are familiar with laparoscopic surgery as many general surgeons perform appendectomies and cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal) using this approach.  Gynecologists have also been performing laparoscopy for more than 20 years, and the majority of abdominal surgeries are now performed this way.

What are the different types of hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy can be performed abdominally, vaginally, or laparoscopically.  The method chosen depends on whether the patient has had children, how big her uterus is, and the reason for the surgery.  The cervix can also be removed laparoscopically, and this is called a total laparoscopic hysterectomy.

What are the advantages of a LSH?

The advantages of a LSH are less pain postoperatively and a shorter recovery time. 

What are the disadvantages of a LSH?

When the cervix is left intact, patients will still need to have pap smears to screen for cervical cancer.  Approximately 5% of patients will experience light spotting after the surgery even though the uterus has been removed.

What is the recovery time?

The shorter recovery time after a LSH is one of its greatest benefits.  Most patients go home that evening or the following day.  Patients can resume sexual activity and exercise in approximately 2 weeks. 

In comparison, patients spend 3-4 days in the hospital after a traditional abdominal hysterectomy and can expect a 6-8 week recovery.  A vaginal hysterectomy requires an overnight hospital stay and a 4-6wk recovery.

Who is a candidate for this procedure?

Most patients who are considering an abdominal hysterectomy are also candidates for this procedure.  If a patient has an extremely large uterus or extensive scar tissue, a LSH may not be possible.  Also, patients with significant vaginal prolapse may require a vaginal hysterectomy.  Patients who have a history of cervical dysplasia (abnormal Paps) may also require an abdominal hysterectomy.

What are the risks?

Every surgery has risks associated with it.  Traditionally, these risks are bleeding complications, infection, or injury to other organs such as the bladder or bowel.  However, the rate of complications with LSH has been shown to be comparable to vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy.

Who is qualified to perform a LSH?

Gynecologists skilled in advanced laparoscopic procedures are able to perform this surgery.  It is a technically challenging procedure that requires training and experience to perform in order to ensure good outcomes.