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A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that allows your doctor
to remove fibroids from the uterine area while maintaining
the integrity of the uterus. With a myomectomy a woman can
still become pregnant and deliver a newborn. However, while
existing fibroids are removed by this procedure, they may
reappear in approximately 30% of all women who undergo this
procedure.
Depending on where the fibroids are located will determine
the specific type of mymectomy that your doctor will perform.
If the fibroids protrude into the cavity of the uterus, then
a hysteroscope (a thin telescope-like instrument) can be inserted
through the vagina into the uterine cavity. The hysteroscope
is equipped with minature surgical tools so that the fibroids
can be removed. This hysteroscopic myomectomy is the least
invasive procedure and has the shortest amount of recovery
time.
If the fibroids are located on the outside of the uterus,
a laparoscopic myomectomy can be performed. In this procedure,
a small incision is made in the navel. A laparoscope (which
again is a thin telescope-like instrument) is equipped with
minature surgical tools is inserted through the small incision
and the fibroids are again removed.
If the fibroids are located in such places that neither of
the above two methods can successfully reach the fibroids,
then a traditional myomectomy is performed. In this procedure,
a major incision is made in the abdomen so that the entire
uterus is exposed for the removal of the fibroids. This is
a major surgical procedure that will require significant time
at home to recover.
Your provider will discuss these options in detail with you
after an accurate diagnosis has been made. The location of
the fibroids is the primary determination of the surgical
approach to be taken.
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