Hsyterectomy options

• By Eimaj
• Posted April 21, 2009 at 10:09 pm
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Hello Hollia,
There are several surgical options these days for having a hysterectomy. I'm sure you will get lots of good info from the women on this site. I had a radical hysterectomy 3 months ago for stage 1a1 CC. I had a traditional abdominal surgery. I wish I would have had another option, but I am a Kaiser Permanente patient and they didn't give me another option. They tend to behind the curve when it comes to new and upcoming methods. The first 3 weeks were the worst for me. I have a long vertical scare. I had to come home with a catheter and had quite a bit of trouble getting my bowel function back to normal. I also had my ovaries removed, so I am also dealing with menopause. I am pretty well healed up now, but still tire easily. Best of luck to you and please keep us informed on your progress.

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• By Hollia
• Posted April 21, 2009 at 10:30 pm
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Thanks for sharing! I need all the info I can get! I hope things get back to normal for you very soon!!!! Thanks again!!!!

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• By Faith2
• Posted April 22, 2009 at 11:48 am
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Dear Hollia,

The first thing I'd do is get my medical records so that I know exactly what's going on with my body.

It's very important to know what stage of cervical cancer you have since there may still be other options available to you.

A hysterectomy is major surgery - not something to be taken lightly, nor is it something that's done because the child bearing years are over. The uterus and cervix have many roles in addition to childbearing including sexual function and pelvic support.

I'm not saying that you're taking any of this lightly - sometimes drs are quick to recommend hysterectomy.

Again, the most important part of this is what your pathology report says about the stage of cancer so having your records is priority before making any decision for treatment. I also think you're smart for seeing a gyn-oncologist who specializes in cancer.

Keeping you in my thoughts & prayers.

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• By kiminmo
• Posted April 22, 2009 at 6:22 pm
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Hollia,

I had a radical hysterectomy using the DaVinci Robot roughly 8 weeks ago. This method is less invasive and typically has a shorter recovery time. I have 5 small (1-inch) incisions along my abdomen. I was home from work for 2 weeks and then started back part-time for additional 2 weeks before going back full-time. Healing time varies by individual. My doctor told me to expect to be out 4 - 6 weeks, but I was feeling great after two weeks.

You will want help around the house your first week as moving and standing for long periods of time can be painful. No heavy lifting and driving for a couple of weeks or maybe longer depending on doctor's advice.

The DaVinci is an expensive piece of equipment so it isn't covered by all insurances or may not be avilable in some areas. You should ask if your doctor can do the surgery laproscopically -- it is very similar to DaVinci in that it is less invasive as well.

As other members have mentioned. Make sure you know all the facts and risks about the surgery. It is major surgery. I consulted with two GYN Oncologists before moving forward with my surgery.

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• By Hollia
• Posted April 22, 2009 at 8:07 pm
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Thanks for the info! Yes I have my records and path reports and I see the Oncol Gyno next week. I have researched the Robotic Hyster and know a few ladies that had it done and that is my first choice if it works out for me and I am a good candidate. As I said I have yet to see the Oncol Gyno but after we speak we will go over the best options for me and if that is what it comes out to (Total Hyster) then I would prefer the Robotic Hyster for sure! My doc does these an I have good insurance so that is good. I will def keep my options open. Thanks again!

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• By Hollia
• Posted April 24, 2009 at 1:41 pm
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Ladies I am going on for a consult with a doc at MD Anderson in Orlando and then I have a consult with another surgeon at Florida Hospital. I am very interested to see what they say and compare notes too.

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• By Hollia
• Posted June 23, 2009 at 7:52 am
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I had a Robotic Ass Lap Hyster removal of Cervix and Uterus on June 9th, 2009. I was so happy with my results and I was up and out 3 days post op having dinner out, etc. I can not lift mroe than 10 pounds for 8 weeks and no sex for 8 weeks along with tub baths or swimming but I was driving 6 days later, took pain meds for 3 days and then needed nothing afte that, not even Motrin, etc. If you have to get a Hyster, Get the ROBOTIC!!!! I am so happy!!!!!!!

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• By flowershoplady
• Posted June 23, 2009 at 8:41 am
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glad to hear your surgery and recovery went so well. what stage cancer do you have? and do you need additional treatment? you'll find lots of support here from others!

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