Hysterectomy

Surgical removal of the uterus. It is performed in order to treat fibroids, and cancer of the uterus (see uterus, cancer of) or cervix (see cervix, cancer of). It may also be performed to relieve heavy menstrual bleeding or endometriosis, and to remove a prolapsed uterus (see uterus, prolapse of). The most common type is a total hysterectomy, in which the uterus and cervix are removed. Occasionally, the fallopian tubes and ovaries are removed as well. For cervical cancer, a radical hysterectomy is performed, in which the uterus, cervix and pelvic lymph nodes are removed. Hysterectomy may be performed through the vagina or through an incision in the abdomen.