Myomectomy is a surgical procedure designed to address a common gynecological concern, uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus and can cause various symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on surrounding organs.
Unlike a hysterectomy, which involves the complete removal of the uterus, myomectomy focuses on the targeted removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus. This makes myomectomy an ideal choice for women who wish to retain their fertility or simply keep their uterus intact.
Indications of Myomectomy Surgery Procedure
Myomectomy surgery procedure is indicated for various medical conditions and situations where uterine fibroids are causing significant symptoms or affecting a woman’s reproductive health. Some of the common indications for myomectomy include:
Symptomatic Fibroids: When fibroids cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding(menorrhagia), prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pain, lower back pain, and pressure on the bladder or rectum, myomectomy can provide relief by removing the source of these symptoms.
Infertility: Women experiencing difficulty conceiving due to fibroids may opt for myomectomy to improve their chances of pregnancy. Fibroids can sometimes interfere with the implantation of a fertilized egg or lead to miscarriages.
Desire to Preserve Uterus: Myomectomy is chosen by women who want to retain their uterus for future reproductive or personal reasons as an alternative to a hysterectomy, which involves complete removal of the uterus.
Large Fibroids: When fibroids are particularly large, causing discomfort or complications, myomectomy may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and prevent potential complications.
Submucosal Fibroids: These fibroids grow within the uterine cavity and can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility issues. Hysteroscopic myomectomy is often performed to remove them.
Pedunculated Fibroids: These fibroids are attached to the uterus by a stalk and can sometimes cause pain or twisting. Surgical removal through myomectomy may be necessary.
Pressure Symptoms: Fibroids pressing on nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum, can lead to urinary frequency, constipation, or discomfort during intercourse. Myomectomy can relieve these symptoms.
Recurrent Fibroids: In cases where fibroids regrow after a previous myomectomy, a repeat procedure may be considered.
Unexplained Pelvic Pain: When pelvic pain is suspected to be caused by fibroids, a myomectomy might be recommended after a thorough evaluation and elimination of other potential causes.
How to Prepare for Myomectomy Surgery?
Preparing for myomectomy surgery involves several steps to ensure a smooth procedure and a successful recovery. Here’s a general guideline on how to prepare for myomectomy surgery:
Consultation and Evaluation: Schedule a consultation with your gynecologist or the surgeon who will perform the myomectomy. Discuss your medical history, current medications, allergies, and any pre-existing conditions.
Preoperative Instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific preoperative instructions, which may include guidelines on eating and drinking before the surgery and any necessary fasting.
Smoking and Alcohol: If you smoke, consider quitting or at least reducing smoking before the surgery, as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
Nutrition and Hydration: Focus on a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your body’s healing process.
Arrange Support: Depending on the type of myomectomy and the expected recovery time, you might need assistance with daily activities during the initial recovery period. Arrange for someone to help you if needed.
Mental and Emotional Preparation: Understand the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes. Discuss any concerns or questions with your surgeon.
Arrangements for Transportation: Arrange for transportation to and from the hospital on the day of the surgery, as you may not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.
Who will Treat Myomectomy Surgery?
Here are the types of specialists who may be involved in treating myomectomy surgery:
Gynecologist
Gynecologic Surgeon
Reproductive Endocrinologist
Minimally Invasive Surgeon
Urogynecologist
Hysteroscopic Surgeon
What they do for the Myomectomy Surgery Procedure?
Abdominal Myomectomy (Open Surgery): In this traditional procedure, the surgeon makes an open incision in the abdomen to access and remove the fibroids. This method is often used for larger or multiple fibroids that are difficult to remove using minimally invasive techniques.
Laparoscopic Myomectomy: This minimally invasive approach involves small incisions and the use of a laparoscope (a camera) to guide the removal of fibroids. The procedure is less invasive, resulting in less scarring and a quick recovery compared to open Laparoscopic surgery.
Robotic-Assisted Myomectomy A robotic system helps guide the surgeon’s precise movements. It enhances dexterity and visualization, allowing for a more accurate removal of fibroids, particularly in challenging areas.
Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: This technique is used when fibroids are within the uterine cavity or protruding into it. A hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix, enabling the surgeon to remove fibroids without making external incisions.
Myomectomy Complications
Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection at the incision sites.
Excessive Bleeding: In some cases, fibroids can be large, and removing them may cause bleeding.
Damage to Surrounding Organs: In rare cases, adjacent organs such as the bowel may be injured.
Recurrent Fibroids: Fibroids may return after the surgery, especially if only a portion of the fibroids was removed.
Recovery After Myomectomy Surgery Procedure
Recovery after a myomectomy surgery procedure can vary based on the type of surgery performed (open, laparoscopic, robotic, hysteroscopic), the size and number of fibroids removed, and individual factors such as overall health and age. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect during the recovery period:
Hospital Stay: After the surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area until you are awake and stable.
First Few Days After Surgery: Pain and discomfort are common in the first few days. Your healthcare team will provide pain medication and instructions on how to manage pain.
First Two Weeks: You may need to take time off work or limit physical activities during this period to aid healing.
2-6 Weeks: Pain and discomfort usually improve during this time, although some residual soreness might persist.
Long-Term Recovery: Over the next few months, your energy levels should return to normal, and any residual discomfort should gradually diminish.
Myomectomy Benefits
Preserve Fertility: Removes fibroids while keeping the uterus intact, allowing future pregnancies.
Relieves Symptoms: Alleviates heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure caused by fibroids.
Improves Quality of Life: Enhances overall comfort and daily activities by addressing fibroid-related issues.
Reduces Risk of Complications: Lowers the chances of complications associated with untreated fibroids.
Minimally Invasive Options: Laparoscopic or robotic techniques offer quicker recovery and smaller scars.
Lifestyle Changes After Myomectomy Surgery Procedure
After undergoing a myomectomy surgery procedure, making certain lifestyle changes can aid in your recovery and overall well-being. Here are some recommended lifestyle adjustments to consider:
Diet and Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support healing and boost your immune system. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Physical Activity: Follow your surgeon’s guidelines on physical activity and exercise. Start with gentle walking and gradually increase your activity level as you heal.
Rest and Sleep: Get adequate rest to allow your body to heal properly. Prioritize sleep and consider adjusting your sleep position to avoid putting pressure on your surgical site.
Medications: Take any prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider. If you’re on pain medication, follow the recommended dosages and consult your doctor if you have concerns about side effects.
Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress and promote healing.
Clothing and Comfort: Wear loose and comfortable clothing to avoid putting pressure on the surgical area.
Alcohol and Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing smoking, as it can hinder the healing process.
Work and Activities: Discuss with your surgeon when it’s safe to return to work and resume normal activities.
