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Sometimes Hysterectomy is the Answer, Sometimes It Isn't

There are some clinical conditions when an abdominal-incision hysterectomy is the only option for a woman. However, it’s important to know that there are minimally invasive procedures available, not only for removal of the uterus, but to treat abnormal uterine bleeding, some malignancies, pelvic prolapse or painful endometriosis. These minimally invasive procedures allow a shorter recovery time with a quicker return to daily activities.

Scott Biest, MD, director of minimally invasive gynecology at Washington University, says “before surgery is considered to treat an enlarged symptomatic uterus, there are some medical options to be explored. For instance, heavy menstruation can be treated with birth control pills, an intrauterine device (IUD) or newer medications to reduce blood flow in some patients. A minor surgery called endometrial ablation, which burns the lining of the uterus and reduces flow, may also be an option. Finally, patients may elect to have a uterine artery embolization, in which a radiologist injects substances into the blood vessels supplying the uterus to reduce its size and decrease symptoms.”

There are times, however, when surgery is the only choice. Minimally invasive surgery—whether performed vaginally, laparoscopically or with robotic assistance—provides surgery options for conditions that previously required larger surgical incisions. These approaches allow a shorter hospital stay, reduce the risk of surgical site infections, are less painful and provide a quicker recovery.

Dr. Biest says, “Our goal is to successfully treat the patient and resolve her problem with minimal disruption to her life.”

If you have been advised to undergo a hysterectomy and are interested in learning about other treatment options from Dr. Biest, please call 314-747-5470 to make an appointment.

Patients are seen at:

Highlands Plaza III
1110 Highlands Plaza Drive East, Suite 220
St. Louis, MO 63110

Scott Biest, MD

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Sometimes Hysterectomy is the Answer, Sometimes It Isn't

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