Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of the uterus. There are many different reasons why one may need to get a hysterectomy procedure done and depending upon the exact cause, the degree or level of the process may differ. There are many different types of hysterectomy options and your doctor will choose one for you depending upon the seriousness of the issue. The following are some of the main types of hysterectomy procedures:

types of hysterectomy procedures

Complete or Total Hysterectomy

This is one of the most common hysterectomy procedure and involves the removal of both the cervix and the uterus. This is a process which can be done abdominally by making an incision.  These days, a vertical incision is made through the abdominal wall from the naval to the pubis.  This process requires a long healing time and hence more resting.  It can also be performed through the vagina in which case there is no need of any large incision through the belly. If this is done, the healing time required is less.

Partial or Supracervical Hysterectomy

In this surgery, only the upper portion of the uterus is removed and ovaries and/or the cervix is left. This procedure can either be performed through the vagina, the abdomen or through laparoscopy.  This is a much better procedure than total hysterectomy since it requires lesser healing time and retains the cervix.

These are the two main types of hysterectomy procedures but within these procedures too, there are different sub categories. For example, both these procedures can be done either using laparoscopy or without it. The following are some of the other types of hysterectomy procedures that come within the above given categories:

Vaginal Hysterectomy

This is a procedure in which uterus is removed through the vagina. This kind of hysterectomy is suitable for those who have experienced cervical dysplasia and endometrial hyperplasia.

Laparoscopy Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy

This is a procedure in which uterus is removed through the vagina but by making use of a laparoscope. A laparoscope is a very thin viewing tube which is used to visualize things that lie within the abdomen.

Laparoscopy Supra Cervical Hysterectomy

This is a supracervical hysterectomy procedure which is performed by making use of a laparoscope. In this type of procedure, the recovery is faster and the pain felt may be less.

Radical Hysterectomy

This is a very extensive surgery and is more detailed than a total abdominal hysterectomy since it involves the removal of tissues surrounding the uterus. It also involves removal of upper vagina.  This procedure is mostly performed for early cervical cancer. This procedure can also result in serious compilations like injury to the urinary system and the bowels.

Oophorectomy

This is a surgical procedure which involves removal of the ovary or both the ovaries. This procedure is performed in the case when one is suffering from ovarian cancer.  It may also need to be performed in case of infections or other such conditions.