Fibroidectomy is the surgical procedure to remove fibroids (round-shaped growths), from the uterus. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus.
It is the best surgical procedure for those women who want to conceive, but are unable to because of fibroid symptoms. However, this surgery can increase the chances of pregnancy, but cannot guarantee it.
There are 3 techniques to perform, viz.
- Laparoscopic Fibroidectomy
- Hysteroscopic Fibroidectomy
- Laparotomy or Abdominal Fibroidectomy
Fibroidectomy is also called Myomectomy.
Myomectomy is recommended when:
- Pressure or pain in the uterus which is not eased down even after treatment with medicine.
- Growth of fibroid that has changed the uterus wall that can lead to repeated miscarriages and give rise to infertility problem.
The doctor will recommend the following
- Avoid lifting heavy objects, rigorous exercise and climbing stairs
- Avoid using tampons and sexual intercourse.
- Fasting for 8 to 10 hours prior to surgery.
The surgeon will decide the technique for the procedure based on the size, number and location of the fibroids. The procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia.
Laparoscopic Myomectomy
- Firstly, the surgeon will make one or more incision near the navel.
- A thin tube fitted with camera (laparoscope) will be inserted in the abdomen and the uterus is accessed.
- Fibroids are located and cut into smaller pieces, and removed.
Laparotomy or Abdominal Myomectomy
- It is an open surgical procedure in which the surgeon make a long vertical or a horizontal cut to access the pelvic cavity.
- Vertical cut is made in case of larger fibroids.
- The uterus is accessed and the fibroids are removed surgically.
Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
- This technique is used when the fibroids extend upto the utrine cavity.
- A resectoscope is inserted through the vagina into the uterus.
- The utrine cavity is expanded using a salt water solution, and the cavity and walls are examined.
- With the help of resectoscope the fibroids are cut and removed along with the solution.
In case of Abdominal Myomectomy, the patient has to stay in hospital for 1 to 2 days. While in other techniques, the patient can go home on the same day.
Vaginal bleeding and spotting can be expected, for a few weeks after the surgery. Typical recovery period is 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the technique used for the procedure.
The doctor will recommed against lifting heavy objects, driving, climing stairs, jumping or any other strenuous activity for 3 to 4 weeks.
Fibroidectomy is a relatively safe procedure. However, some complications may arise:
- Heavy loss of blood. If bleeding is uncontrollable, then the surgeon may recommend the removal of uterus.
- Complications in childbirth
- Scar tissues