Myomectomy for uterine fibroids
Myomectomy is an operation to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. For women who have fibroid symptoms and would like to have children in the future, myomectomy is the best treatment option. Myomectomy is very effective, but fibroids can re-grow. The younger you are and the more fibroids you have at the time of myomectomy, the more likely you are to develop fibroids again in the future. Women nearing menopause are the least likely to have recurring fibroids after a myomectomy.
How is Myomectomy done
Also known as ‘open’ myomectomy, an abdominal myomectomy is a major surgical procedure. It involves making an incision through the skin on the lower abdomen and removing the fibroids from the wall of the uterus. Open myomectomy is carried out when the fibroids are large and many in number. A bikini-line incision is generally used, but occasionally a midline vertical incision may be required. The uterine muscle is then sewn back together using several layers of stitches. You will be asleep during the procedure (general anaesthesia). This procedure is known to be associated with increased blood loss during surgery and may require a blood transfusion.
How do I prepare for the surgery
At consultation, Mr Alak Pal will take a detailed history, assess symptoms and will do a clinical examination if needed. An ultrasound scan will identify the number, size and location of fibroids. Occasionally, an MRI scan may be required for more information.
If the fibroid is very large, Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) analogues may be used to shrink the size of the fibroids, so that the surgery can be done through a bikini-line incision.
What are the risks associated with myomectomy
Like any surgical procedure, an abdominal myomectomy carries some risks such as bleeding and infection. About 5 percent of women develop an infection after surgery requiring antibiotics.
Blood thinning injections are given for about 10-14 days to reduce the risk of clots in legs and lungs which is a risk after any major surgery.
Recovery from the surgery
Most women spend 2-3 nights in the hospital and about 4-6 weeks recovering at home. After the procedure, you will have a horizontal scar near your pubic hair or “bikini” line.
After myomectomy, you may be recommended to have a caesarean section for delivery of future pregnancies. This is to reduce the chance that your uterus could open apart during labour. The need for a caesarean section will depend on how deeply the fibroids were embedded in the wall of the uterus at the time of surgical removal.
Recurrence
It is also important to note that new fibroids may develop, resulting in recurrent symptoms and a possible for additional procedures in the future.
Contact us
Email us
Call us
Email us
Find the nearest location
Patient seen for : Dilation and Curettage
Dr Alak Pal was great. He made me feel comfortable and explained everything clearly, including next steps. Would recommend.
07-04-2022
Patient seen for : Hysteroscopy
Very professional and helpful in explaining everything. Helped me make an informed decision with this vast knowledge.
10-03-2022
Patient seen for : Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
From the initial appointment, surgery, aftercare and to my final appointment, Mr Pal was extremely professional and understanding to my particular medical circumstances. The entire abdominal hysterectomy procedure was extremely satisfactory. He spent time listening to any concerns that I had and explained clearly and simply the process surrounding the surgery. I would highly recommend him for anyone contemplating such a procedure. Additionally, post-surgical care and appointments were excellent too.
18-03-2020
Fantastic doctor, very pleased with consultation. Thanks
16-03-2020
