Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It is done
to treat certain gynecological conditions, including childbirth
complications; cancer; and fibroids, endometriosis, or uterine
bleeding that hasn't responded to other treatments. A total
(complete) hysterectomy is removal of the uterus and cervix. A
subtotal (also called partial or supracervical) hysterectomy is
the surgical removal of the uterus, leaving the cervix in place.
A radical hysterectomy is done for some cancers. It is the
removal of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, structures that support
the uterus, and sometimes the lymph nodes. The uterus can be
removed through: The ovaries may be removed along with the
uterus. The decision about whether to remove or leave the
ovaries is based on a woman's wishes and health issues.
eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise To learn more
visit Healthwise.org © 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated.
Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the
Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise