Myomectomy

A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that is used to remove uterine fibroids. Not all uterine fibroids need treatment. Fibroids may require surgical treatment if they cause bleeding, pressure, pain or other life altering symptoms. Myomectomy is also chosen when a woman needs treatment, but would like to keep her uterus so she can have children. 

Length of the procedure is normally 1 to 2 hours.  Most patents are hospitalized 5 days when they have a myomectomy. Patients seeking a myomectomy through medical tourism can return home 10 days after their procedure. Technically, you can travel when you are released from the hospital, but most physicians recommend that you stay a few days beyond your hospital stay and recover in a hotel before traveling. 

Your surgery will begin with the administration of general anesthesia. This procedure is done either laparoscopically or hysteroscopically. The procedure that is done is chosen ahead of time by the surgeon. The choice is based upon the size and amount of fibroids that need removing. 

During a laparoscopic procedure 3 to 4 small incisions are made in the abdomen. The laparoscopic instruments are inserted through the incisions. The abdomen is inflated with air for better viewing and more work room for the surgeon. The fibroids are removed using an electrical current or laser that shrinks them. Then, the uterine wall is repaired and the surgical incisions are closed with sutures or tape. 

The hysteroscopic myomectomy is done through your cervical canal. The procedure uses a device called a resectoscope to cut the fibroids away from the uterine wall or it uses an electrical current to evaporate the fibroids. No sutures are required because no incision is made. 

After the procedure you will be taken to recovery. Your vitals will be monitored carefully during this time. When you have woken from the surgery and your vitals are stable you will be moved to a regular hospital room. 

It is normal for patients to have abdominal pain and discomfort after this procedure. Pain is controlled with pain medications given in IV or pill form. Pain from this surgery subsides within 7 to 10 days for most patients. 

• Sanitary pads may be necessary. 
• Bathe and shower normally.
• Avoid driving for 2 weeks.
• Avoid strenuous activity for 6 weeks.
• Avoid sexual activity until physician approval.

Generally people recover from myomectomy within 4 to 6 weeks of their procedure. The first period after myomectomy may be abnormally heavy. This procedure is successful in controlling symptoms in 80% of the patients who have it.