Saint Louis, MO Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Cost Comparison

• Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Types in Saint Louis
• Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Providers in Saint Louis

Hysterectomy Procedure and Cost Introduction

There are two different types of Hysterectomy, a Total Hysterectomy and a Subtotal Hysterectomy. A Total Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and cervix. A Subtotal Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of only the upper part of the uterus while the cervix is left in place. Hysterectomy is the second most common major operation performed in the United States today, second only to cesarean section. There are presently three ways to perform a Hysterectomy; abdominal Hysterectomy, vaginal Hysterectomy and laparoscopic Hysterectomy.

Hysterectomy Patient Preparation

You will be given instructions in advance that will outline what you should and should not do in preparation for a Hysterectomy. Read these instructions and follow them carefully. You may be given a suppository the morning of the procedure to help empty your bowels and you will not be able to eat or drink anything the morning of the surgery so make sure you have a full meal the night before. It is particularly important to inform the physician of all medications or vitamins taken regularly or if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention, and, finally, if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting. Arrangements should be made for transportation after the surgery is complete.

What to expect during and after a Hysterectomy Procedure

Prior to entering the operating room, you will be given an anesthetic, which will put you asleep for the procedure. Some anesthetics are done by injection while others are done by having an intravenous line inserted into the arm to administer a sedative and a painkiller. In addition, your heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure. You will most likely be sedated during the procedure so you will not have any recollection of the length of the procedure nor feel any pain during the procedure. Plan to stay in the hospital to recover from 1 to 2 days. Make sure to have someone drive you home. You should not try to operate a vehicle on your own. Take the pain medication your doctor prescribes for you. It is important to reduce your pain during the hysterectomy recovery time. Use heating pads to reduce the pain. Try one over the abdomen and another under it. Make sure you do not sleep with the heating pads in direct contact with your skin. Move slowly and do not lift anything and bend over for anything for at least the first 2 weeks. Notify your physician to report any of the following: fever and/or chills, dizziness, bleeding from incisions or catheter insertion, abdominal pain and/or bloating. Plan on a doctor's visit 4 to 6 weeks post surgery. You should be able to return to normal activities, including sexual intercourse, in 6 to 8 weeks.