An Introduction to Myomectomy
An abdominal myomectomy is a procedure that is used to remove abnormal muscular growths, called uterine fibroids, from the uterus and improve fibroid symptoms. Although the
results of a myomectomy can vary, most women experience some improvement in their symptoms after the surgery.
Preparing for a Myomectomy
Myomectomy is usually performed on an inpatient basis, which means that you will stay in the hospital after the procedure. For your particular situation, you will be given specific instructions as to where and when to arrive at the medical facility, how to prepare for your myomectomy, and what to expect the day of and the days following your surgery.
Types of Anesthesia Used for a Myomectomy
Anesthesia is used to eliminate the pain felt during a myomectomy. The two most common types of
myomectomy anesthesia used are spinal and general anesthesia.
Depending on the size and location of the fibroids, your surgeon will make a 6- to 9-inch incision, or cut, across your lower abdomen.
This incision may be either horizontal or vertical on the skin.
After opening your abdomen, your doctor will carefully inspect your organs, including the uterus, and check the size, location, and number of fibroids that are present. If fibroids are found, and your doctor feels that they may be the cause of your problem, they will be removed. The method used to remove the fibroids will depend on their size and location.
Recovering From a Myomectomy
After a myomectomy and recovery room stay, you will be transferred to a regular hospital room, where your family and friends will be able to visit with you at the scheduled visiting times. You will remain in the hospital for two to five days after your surgery.
When you leave the hospital to continue your
myomectomy recovery, you will be given instructions for taking care of your body, as well as specific instructions for driving, activity level, medication, and anything else.
Expected Results of a Myomectomy
Following a myomectomy, most women feel that their fibroid symptoms improve. However, because pelvic pain and discomfort are often symptoms of other gynecologic problems, not just uterine fibroids, the pain relief may be limited. Also, symptoms may return at a future date.
Having a myomectomy can improve your fertility. Other factors that can play a role in your ability to conceive after a myomectomy include:
- Age
- The desire to conceive
- The size of myomas
- The number of myomas.
If you do conceive, your baby will most likely need to be delivered by C-section (
cesarean section).
Potential Risks of a Myomectomy
No surgical procedure is ever completely free of risks. However, myomectomy has been performed for many years with successful results and limited complications. Possible problems that can occur include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Nerve injury
- Reactions to medication or anesthesia
- Other rare and unlikely events.
Alternatives to a Myomectomy
Several alternatives exist for the treatment of fibroids. However, these
alternatives to a myomectomy are not appropriate for every situation, and your doctor may have tried some or all of these methods already. Possible alternatives include:
- Observation
- Medication
- Other surgical options.
Having uterine fibroids can be serious. An abdominal myomectomy is a procedure that is performed for women who have uterine fibroids and who want to be able to have children or reduce fibroid symptoms. Myomectomy is a major surgery, with risks similar to a hysterectomy. Before deciding to have a myomectomy, women should be sure that they understand the procedure, including its risks, benefits, and alternatives. Based on what you want and expect, you and your doctor can make a shared decision about your healthcare.
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