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Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
Quick Facts
Procedure Description:
Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy (LSH) preserves sexual function by saving the cervix and its mucous-secreting glands, avoiding vaginal dryness, the most common complaint after other hysterectomies. Few surgeons are trained for this advanced procedure. LSH is a partial hysterectomy that preserves your cervix, and often your ovaries, removing only the diseased uterus.
What To Expect:
LSH causes less vaginal dryness because the glands of the cervix secrete mucous, avoiding the most common complaint of all other hysterectomies (vaginal dryness). LSH also affords better pelvic support, because the ligaments that support the cervix and vagina are left intact. LSH leads to less pain and quicker recovery compared to traditional hysterectomies because of the small incisions used in the laparoscopic approach. Sparing of the ovaries in most cases, avoids the need for hormone replacement. To read more about this procedure see the Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy - OBGYN.net Interview.
Pre-procedure:
A complete history and physical exam including a pap smear and a vaginal ultrasound are performed at the time of the first visit, with other pre-surgical testing depending on your condition. You do not qualify for LSH if you have a history of precancerous cervical pathology because of the risk of developing cancer in the future.
Post-procedure:
Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is significantly faster and less painful than recovery from traditional surgery. Moreover, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy has been shown to have the shortest operating times and the shortest hospital stays compared to any other type of hysterectomy. LSH also leads to quicker resumption of sexual activity with better vaginal support. Because the cervix is saved, you will still require yearly pap smears.
Comparative Benefits of Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
| TRADITIONAL | GOOD | BETTER | BEST | |
| Procedure | Total Abdominal Hysterectomy | Vaginal Hysterectomy |
Laparoscopically Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy | Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy |
| Acronym | (TAH) | (VH) | (LAVH) | (LSH) |
| Incision Site | Abdomen | Inner vagina | Belly button/vagina | Abdomen (4 small incisions |
| Hospital Stay | 5-6 days | 1-3 days | 1-3 days | Outpatient to 1 day |
| Recovery Time | 6 weeks | 4-6 weeks | 4-6 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Retention of Cervix | Upon request | No | No | Yes |
| Indications | AUB*, large fibroids, severe endometriosis, pelvic infection/scarring | AUB*, utero-vaginal prolapse, smaller fibroids | AUB*, utero-vaginal prolapse, smaller fibroids | AUB*, fibroids |
| Contraindications | Large fibroids | Large fibroids | Large or numerous fibroids |
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