Myomectomy – Types, purpose, and procedure
Myomectomy refers to the surgical removal of uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tissue growths that form in the uterus. When women undergo myomectomy treatment, their uterus is preserved so they can become pregnant afterward. Myoma (fibroid) and ectomy are the origins of the term myomectomy. Myomectomy is typically the best and safest treatment option for women with fibroids who wish to become pregnant later because it keeps the uterus intact.
The goal of myomectomy
A health expert may advise a myomectomy if you have annoying fibroids or interfere with your daily activities. In addition, there are various reasons to consider a myomectomy rather than a hysterectomy if you need surgery for uterine fibroids.
- You wish to conceive.
- Your doctor suspects uterine fibroids may be hurting your fertility.
- You wish to retain your uterus.
Symptoms that demand myomectomy
The signs and symptoms that might necessitate a myomectomy are listed below. In addition, the surgeon will do several tests before the procedure.
- Pelvic discomfort
- Urination difficulty
- Frequent urination
- A menstrual cycle lasting longer than a week
- Pain in the legs and lower back
Types of myomectomy
The size and position of the fibroid will determine the type of myomectomy technique used. The following myomectomy procedures are all performed while the patient is sedated.
Hysteroscopic myomectomy
Hysteroscopic myomectomy is an invasive procedure wherein a health expert inserts a tiny telescope-like equipment called a hysteroscope into the uterine cavity via the vagina and the cervix. A skilled surgeon can remove tiny, superficial fibroids with this approach.
Myomectomy assisted by laparoscopy
To make sure the fibroid or the procedure does not extend into the uterine wall, the surgeon inserts a laparoscope (thin, lighted scope with a camera at the end) into your abdomen. Laparoscopically assisted myomectomy is necessary for fibroids that protrude through the uterine wall or are exposed outside the uterine cavity.
Laparoscopic myomectomy with robotic assistance (Robotic myomectomy)
Although the technique involves robotics, it is conceptually comparable to a laparoscopically assisted myomectomy. It is crucial to remember that your surgeon’s proficiency is the most significant factor.
Open myomectomy of the abdomen (abdominal myomectomy)
This procedure creates a single, substantially horizontal or vertical incision into the abdomen. As a result, the surgeon will have easy access to the uterus; however, in contrast to other myomectomy methods, it calls for the biggest incision. This method is preferred by certain surgeons when fibroids are extremely large.
Myomectomy treatment
Hormone treatment
Health experts frequently suggest hormone replacement therapy to patients to reduce their risk of fibroid regeneration and other more dangerous disorders after a myomectomy or hysterectomy. However, depending on the procedure, the hormone therapy can change.
Combination treatment for myomectomy
A patient with a myomectomy keeps her uterus, which doctors have mended by removing the fibroids to keep it functional. In such situations, a combination of hormone therapy is essential for lowering the risk of uterine cancer. The effects of estrogen-induced uterine tissue growth are controlled by progesterone in combined hormone therapy, lowering the risk of uterine cancer.
Procedure
During Laparoscopic myomectomy, a surgeon will make minor incisions while the patient is sedated. Carbon dioxide gas will help the surgeon see inside the patient’s belly. Next, a slender, illuminated laparoscope is inserted into the incision. If the procedure is done robotically, the surgeon will use a robotic arm to operate the instruments.
Recovery
Depending on how quickly the patient recovers after a myomectomy, they could spend 24 to 48 hours in the hospital. One might experience some shoulder aches in addition to some minor vaginal bleeding. Even though the patient will be exhausted, they can still walk, eat, and use the restroom as usual. After 24 to 48 hours, the hospital will discharge them.
Taking prescription treatment consistently for the first three days after discharge is advised. Additionally, one must get enough rest, take short walks, shower, and wash as usual. The patient will be seen for a post-operative review and suture removal at the end of the first week. One could resume work in four weeks after progressively increasing one’s activity levels.
The main advantage of myomectomy is that it protects fertility, allowing patients to conceive after fibroid removal. If fibroids are inhibiting conception, the surgery may increase the fertility rate. However, myomectomy doesn’t cure infertility. After the surgery, follow a healthy meal plan rich in protein to help the scars heal and strengthen the uterus. Health experts also advise drinking enough fluids post-surgery to strengthen the immune system and lower the chances of infections.