What is Myomectomy surgery?    

Myomectomy is a surgical method used to remove fibroids from the uterus, followed by repair, and reconstruction of the uterus. 

What are the common types of Myomectomy procedures?

• Open 
• Myomectomy 

Why is Myomectomy performed?    

Myomectomy is performed to remove a fibroid from the uterus. This is a better option unlike hysterectomy as only the fibroid is removed and the uterus is left intact. A few reasons to consider on for this surgery are: 

• If the woman plans to bear children in the future
• If the doctor is suspicious that uterine fibroids may be interfering with women’s fertility
• If the woman wants to keep her uterus
• If the woman has had repeated miscarriages due to fibroid formation in the uterus.

How to prepare for Myomectomy?

Not much preparation is a needed for a Myomectomy gynecologic surgery. The doctor might instruct a few guidelines that need to be followed before the procedure is carried out:

• The doctor will give details of the technique and will give sufficient opportunity to clarify any doubts and queries regarding the technique.
• Consent will be taken to ensure the patient’s approval for performing the technique.
• Further to an absolute medical history, the doctor might carry out a complete physical examination to make certain that the patient is in good health to undergo this technique. 
• The patient may be asked not to eat or drink for some hours before the procedure.
• One may need to wear compression stockings to avoid blood clots from developing in the veins in the legs. 
• An enema may also be required.
• The doctor must be informed about any known allergic reaction to any anesthetic agents, tape, medications or latex.
• Notify the doctor about pregnancy if any.
• Notify the doctor about previous treatments taken for cervical, vaginal, or pelvic infections in the past 6 weeks.
• Inform the doctor about any preexisting lung or heart problems.
• Always come and leave assisted from the hospital if the procedure involves sedation.

How is the procedure performed?

• For this surgery the patient is sedated using general anesthesia.
• The surgeon will make a small incision in the navel and a laparoscope is inserted to view the uterus
• Two or three incisions will be made in the lower tummy on either side, through which instruments for removing the fibroids are inserted
• The fibroids will be resected and removed and the incisions will be closed by suturing 

What precautions that need to be taken after the procedure? 

• Avoid strenuous exercise or sexual activity for a period of 4-6 weeks
• Mild exercise can be performed. Walking is the best activity that can be started after 1 week of the surgery 
• There are no restrictions on driving a car/ bike but if the patient is on narcotic pain medicines, driving should be avoided.
• The monthly period will be affected for 3-4 cycles. Bleeding may be heavy or light, for long or short durations.
• The patient can take a bath after the procedure but should apply fresh dressing to the incision areas. 
• Some amount of bruising around the incision site will be present for a few weeks. Applying cold packs will minimize bruising and swelling
• There are no dietary restrictions but excessive consumption of alcohol should be avoided. 
• Bloating may occur for up to 2-4 weeks which will go away eventually. 
• Contact a doctor or visit a hospital if any of the below problems occur:
  • High fever (more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Continuous pain unrelieved by painkillers/ abdominal distensions
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Excessive vomiting 
  • Dizziness
  • Discharge of pus from the incision