Fibroid removal
Myomectomy
Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the womb. A good option for women who would still like to have children, and for those who want to keep their uterus.
- At hospital
- 60–180 minutes
- General anaesthetic
Overview
About this procedure.
A myomectomy removes fibroids and leaves the womb behind. The right surgical approach depends on the size, number and exact position of your fibroids, which Mr Orabi will discuss with you using your ultrasound or MRI images.
Hysteroscopic, laparoscopic and open approaches each have their place; the conversation is always tailored to your symptoms, your priorities and your future plans.
Setting
At hospital
Duration
60–180 minutes
Anaesthetic
General anaesthetic
Indications
What it's for.
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Heavy periods caused by fibroids
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Pelvic pain or pressure
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Bladder or bowel symptoms from larger fibroids
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Fertility issues thought to be related to fibroid position
On the day
How it's done.
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Three main approaches, chosen based on size, number and position of fibroids
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Laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy: small keyhole incisions and a camera
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Hysteroscopic myomectomy: no skin incisions; performed through the vagina and cervix for fibroids inside the cavity
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Open (abdominal) myomectomy: a larger lower-abdominal incision, used for very large or multiple fibroids
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The fibroids are removed but the womb itself is kept intact
Recovery
After your procedure.
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Same-day discharge for hysteroscopic cases
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1–2 nights in hospital for laparoscopic surgery
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2–3 nights for open surgery
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Full healing in 4–6 weeks for open surgery; shorter for keyhole approaches
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Avoid heavy lifting until reviewed at 6 weeks
Benefits
Why this approach.
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Preserves the womb and the option of future pregnancy
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Effective relief of heavy bleeding and pressure symptoms
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Symptoms often improved by 80% or more
Risks
What to be aware of.
- Bleeding, since fibroid surgery is vascular and may require blood transfusion
- Infection or scar-tissue formation (adhesions)
- Fibroids growing back over time
- Conversion to hysterectomy in very rare cases