Initial Overview

A supracervical hysterectomy can be used to treat the same medical conditions as a vaginal hysterectomy, including benign fibroid tumors of the uterus, abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain. As a partial rather than a total hysterectomy, a supracervical hysterectomy removes the uterus but leaves the cervix in place. This saves some of the blood supply and nerve network and provides better long-term support for the pelvic organs, making a supracervical hysterectomy the best procedure for preserving sexual response.

The main difference between a vaginal and supracervical hysterectomy is that there is no vaginal incision made in a supracervical hysterectomy. A laparoscope — a small tube with a television camera on the end —is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision in the navel, providing an image of the internal organs to guide the surgery. Microsurgical tools inserted through two additional incisions are used to detach the uterus and remove the tissue. The three small incisions are each less than 1/2” long, and a supracervical hysterectomy is usually the least painful form of hysterectomy, with the shortest recovery time required.

Are You A Candidate For A Minimally Invasive Supracervical Hysterectomy?

Not all hysterectomies can be performed using the supracervical procedure. Dr. Huertas will evaluate your condition and the pelvic structures affected in order to determine if you are a candidate.

What To Expect:

LSH also affords better pelvic support, because the ligaments that support the cervix and vagina are left intact. LSH leads to less pain and quicker recovery compared to traditional hysterectomies because of the small incisions used in the laparoscopic approach. Sparing of the ovaries in most cases, avoids the need for hormone replacement.

Pre-procedure:

A complete history and physical exam including a pap smear and a vaginal ultrasound are performed at the time of the first visit, with other pre-surgical testing depending on your condition. You do not qualify for LSH if you have a history of precancerous cervical pathology because of the risk of developing cancer in the future.

Post-procedure:

Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is significantly faster and less painful than recovery from traditional surgery. Moreover, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy has been shown to have the shortest operating times and the shortest hospital stays compared to any other type of hysterectomy. LSH also leads to quicker resumption of sexual activity with better vaginal support. Because the cervix is saved, you will still require yearly pap smears.

Comparative Benefits of Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy

	TRADITIONAL	GOOD	BETTER	BEST
Procedure	Total Abdominal Hysterectomy	Vaginal Hysterectomy	Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy	Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
Acronym	(TAH)	(VH)	(LAVH)	(LSH)
Incision Site	Abdomen	Inner vagina	Belly button/vagina	Abdomen (4 small incisions)
Hospital Stay	5-6 days	1-3 days	1-3 days	Outpatient to 1 day
Recovery Time	6 weeks	4-6 weeks	4-6 weeks	2-3 weeks
Retention of Cervix	Upon request	No	No	YES
Indications	AUB*, large fibroids, severe endometriosis, pelvic infection/scarring	AUB*, utero-vaginal prolapse, smaller fibroids	AUB*, utero-vaginal prolapse, smaller fibroids	AUB*, fibroids
Contraindications		Large fibroids	Large fibroids	Large or numerous fibroids

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If you would like more information about Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy or the other services offered by Dr. Huertas, please contact his office at 972-279-9000 and his capable staff will guide you through the process.  Even better, for more personalized information specific to your individual needs, contact us or call today to schedule a consultation. 

The Dallas Center for Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation
Otoniel Huertas, MD
2540 N Galloway Ave.
Bldg 3, Suite 304
Mesquite, TX  75150 
972-279-9000
Contact us or call to schedule your personal consultation.