Hysterectomy surgery in Plymouth

Why choose Nuffield Health Plymouth Hospital for your hysterectomy?

At Nuffield Health Plymouth Hospital our experienced gynaecologists have a wealth experience undertaking hysterectomy surgery. Women at different stages in their life may be more suited to different hysterectomy procedures. During a consultation our gynaecologists will work with you to identify your needs and recommend an appropriate treatment, personalised to you.

We pride ourselves on consistently delivering extremely high levels of clinical care for our valued patients. Our attentive matron-led nursing team are available 24-7 to fully support our gynaecology consultants and to ensure your comfort and wellbeing whilst admitted in Plymouth.

Vaginal hysterectomy

• Your surgeon in Plymouth may recommend a vaginal hysterectomy if your uterus and cervix are being removed
• A vaginal hysterectomy is usually performed using general anaesthetic (you'll be asleep) and takes about one hour
• Your surgeon will access your uterus through a hole in the wall of your vagina
• Your uterus and cervix will be pulled forward and using special instruments they will remove your uterus and the ligaments that hold it in place along with your cervix
• The wound will be closed using dissolvable stitches
• You may have a gauze dressing in your vagina to help control any bleeding
• You may have a catheter (tube to help you pass urine from your bladder) in place
• This is usually removed the day after your surgery.

Abdominal hysterectomy

• An abdominal hysterectomy is usually performed using general anaesthetic (you'll be asleep)
• The length of your surgery will depend on why you are having your hysterectomy
• Your surgeon will make an incision (cut) in your abdomen (stomach)
• The incision may be horizontal along your bikini line or vertical from your navel (belly button) to your bikini line
• They will remove your uterus and any other reproductive organs that may be causing symptoms
• Your wound will be closed using stitches or staples
• There may be a drainage tube in your wound that will be removed before you leave hospital
• Dressings may be used to cover and protect your wound
• You may also have a catheter (tube that drains your urine from your bladder) in place that will also be removed the day after surgery.

Laparoscopic (keyhole) hysterectomy

• A laparoscopic hysterectomy is usually performed under general anaesthetic
• It takes between 60 - 90 minutes
• Your surgeon will make several small incisions (cuts) in your abdomen (stomach)
• To ensure your surgeon has room to work your abdomen will be inflated with carbon dioxide gas
• Surgical instruments and a long, thin tube connected to a light and camera will be inserted in the incisions in your abdomen
• Your surgeon will also make a small incision around your cervix and use instruments to remove your womb and cervix through your vagina
• Your wounds will be closed with stitches or staples.

Will it take long to recover?

• Most women make a good recovery from a hysterectomy in 6 - 8 weeks
• Your length of stay in hospital and recovery time will depend on your own situation and the type of hysterectomy you have
• You may need to stay in hospital for a few nights
• We will encourage you to get out of bed and take short walks as soon as possible following your surgery
• You will be given pain relief medication but be sure to let us know if you are still experiencing any discomfort
• Once we discharge you, somebody will need to take you home
• Your may be sore and suffer some bruising, which is perfectly normal
• You should rest and limit your activity
• Avoid strenuous activity and any heavy lifting
• Take any pain relief medications as prescribed
• Move around at home several times per day to avoid the formation of blood clots
• Be sure and discuss any return to work with your consultant.

Are there any risks involved?

As with any surgical procedure there could be complications from undergoing a hysterectomy. Your consultant in Plymouth will talk you through any possible risks or complications before your surgery.