Most people believe that the only way to rid yourself of thyroid tumors is a hysterectomy. As a matter of fact, fibroid tumors are the justification given for over one-third of the estimated 600,000 of these procedures performed annually in the United States. There is, however, another option available for those seeking relief.

Fibroids can be surgically removed while still preserving the uterus in a procedure called a myomectomy. When the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon, it is a very safe and effective alternative to removing your uterus and/or ovaries in a hysterectomy.

Preparation

Before the procedure begins, it’s likely that the doctor you’re working will have you take an injection of a medication that stops estrogen production, which causes the fibroids to shrink in size. This injection is usually applied several months before the procedure. If your doctor decides that this is right for you, menstruation will likely cease, so don’t worry about this or think that it is unusual.

While this type of injection is commonly associated with this procedure, there is conflict among physicians about its use, because it is expensive and also because it causes menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes and night sweats. Regardless a myomectomy can be safely performed multiple times, but each time the surgery is performed, the risk of pelvic adhesions increases. A successful procedure should provide complete relief from all of the symptoms associated with fibroid tumors. Keep in mind that it is still possible for the fibroids to grow back, necessitating the need for a hysterectomy down the line.

Risks

Complications are rare when a myomectomy is performed properly, although, women who are considering this procedure should be aware of the possible risks, which include blood loss, bowel obstruction, anemia, pain, infertility, and possible conversion to hysterectomy.

Pregnancy is still possible after the procedure, however, women who become pregnant following a myomectomy raise the possible necessity of a cesarean section due to a potential weakening of the uterine wall.

The Procedure

There are several ways to perform a myomectomy. It can be performed vaginally or abdominally. The type of procedure chosen really depends on the size and location of the fibroid tumors.

All women undergoing a minimally invasive myomectomy technique should be made aware of the possible need to convert to a traditional abdominal procedure while the myomectomy is in progress.

  1. Transcervical Myomectomy

    This is performed during a hysteroscopy with the aid of a resectoscope to treat submucosal fibroids. Other types of myomectomy may be performed during this procedure if intramural or subserosal fibroids are present.

  2. Laparoscopic Myomectomy

    This is a procedure that removes the fibroids and repairs the defect left where the fibroid was located. Proper repair of the defect is of extreme importance in the prevention of complications. A small incision is made, usually in the navel, and a laparoscope is inserted where the myomectomy is performed. This type of myomectomy offers the fastest recovery time.

  3. Laparoscopic Myomectomy with Colpotomy

    This is a procedure that involves an incision in the vagina to remove large pieces of fibroids. This procedure does not close the defect left by the fibroid and must be performed in conjunction with another procedure.

  4. Laparoscopic Minilap Myomectomy

    This is a procedure that also includes a small traditional abdominal incision to remove the fibroids. This type of procedure can be used for any size of fibroid. Because the incision is only four to five centimeters, recovery is quicker than from a conventional myomectomy.

  5. Conventional Myomectomy

    Despite many advancements, this procedure is still the most commonly performed type of myomectomy, as laparoscopic myomectomies are most difficult to perform. A traditional myomectomy requires a five- to seven-inch abdominal incision, three to five days of hospitalization, and six to eight weeks of recovery.

Drs. Miklos and Moore are global experts on uterine fibroids, and will be able to help you get your questions answered and figure out if a myomectomy is for you. Questions that are perfectly normal to ask under these circumstances are:

  • Why are you recommending a myomectomy now?
  • What are the risks if I decide against myomectomy?
  • How often do you perform these procedures?
  • Can you perform a myomectomy without regard to the size or location of fibroids?
  • What type of procedure are you advising for me, and why?
  • Will I require a blood transfusion?

With Dr. Miklos and Dr. Moore by your side, a lot of the decision-making will be made easier and stress-free. If you’re suffering and are seeking relief, contact Drs. Miklos and Moore today!