Myomectomy

Myomectomy removes uterine fibroids while preserving fertility

Myomectomy is a surgery to remove fibroids. Our Austin and Dripping Springs OBGYNs explain that this procedure only removes the non-cancerous growths, leaving the uterus intact and preserving a woman’s fertility.

The procedure is recommended when a woman’s fibroids become symptomatic and negatively affect her life. Potential symptoms include bleeding between periods, heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain. It is also performed when the location of fibroids interferes with fertility.

This surgery is appropriate for women who want to be able to conceive children after the procedure, as an alternative to a hysterectomy. During a hysterectomy, the fibroids and the uterus are removed, resulting in the woman being unable to become pregnant.

Methods of myomectomy surgery to remove fibroids

Myomectomy can be performed using different techniques: laparotomy, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. A decision about the surgical approach is made based on the location, number and size of a woman’s fibroids.

• Laparotomy is open abdominal surgery. An incision is cut in the lower abdomen, and the fibroids are removed. This technique has the largest incision and the longest recovery time. It is recommended when a patient has numerous or very large fibroids.

• Laparoscopy involves using a surgical instrument called a laparoscope, inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. It has a light and a camera that provides the doctor with images inside the pelvis. The removal of fibroids is done through the small incisions. The most commonly used method, laparoscopy has a shorter recovery time than laparotomy.

• Hysteroscopy does not require incisions because the procedure is done through the vagina. A long, thin tube called a hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix, and surgical tools at the end of the hysteroscope are used to remove fibroids. This technique is best for smaller fibroids located inside the uterus and has the shortest recovery time.

All three procedure types are done under general anesthesia, meaning the woman will be asleep during the surgery.

As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including blood loss, infection at the incision site, damage to nearby organs, and blood clots.

After uterine fibroid surgery

The procedure should provide relief for women experiencing symptoms, and may improve fertility if fibroids are affecting a woman’s ability to get pregnant. But, it’s important to know that after surgery to remove fibroids, there is a possibility that new fibroids could form. This means new symptoms may develop, necessitating further treatment.

Also, women who’ve had a myomectomy may need to deliver future babies by Cesarean section. The incisions of a laparotomy or laparoscopy can weaken the abdominal wall, increasing the risk of rupture during a vaginal delivery.

Our Austin and San Antonio OBGYNs are available to answer any questions about myomectomy and whether it is the right solution for you. Contact Hill Country OB/GYN for an appointment.