FIBROID-TUMOR REMOVAL

General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of fibroid tumors (leiomyoma) from the uterus through an incision in the lower abdomen.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Uterus.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Pelvic pain.
• Pressure on the bladder.
• Abnormal bleeding.
• Difficulty in becoming pregnant.
• Discomfort with sexual intercourse.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Poor nutrition, especially inadequate iron intake that has led to anemia.
• Illness that has reduced strength.
• Use of drugs such as: cortisone; antihypertensives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or diuretics.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon or obstetrician-gynecologist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood studies; dilatation and curettage of the uterus (D & C); laparoscopy; x-rays of abdomen; barium-enema x-rays; intravenous pyelogram (See Glossary for all).
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• An incision is made in the lower abdomen.
• The muscles are separated and connective tissues are cut free to expose the uterus.
• Fibroid tumors are located on the outer uterine layers.
• Each tumor is removed separately, and each excision is repaired.
• The internal structures are closed in layers.
• The skin is closed with sutures or skin clips, which can be removed about 4 to 7 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Recurrence of the tumor.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--2 to 3 days.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--The uterus is left intact, and you will still have menstrual periods. Your next period may be heavier than usual but should occur at about the expected time. Allow about 6 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

† Wear sanitary pads--not tampons---to absorb blood.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Resume driving about 2 weeks after returning home. > Resume sexual relations when able.

DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing.

Call Your Doctor If

† You experience vaginal bleeding that soaks more than 1 pad per hour.

• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general feeling of ill health and fever.
• You have abdominal swelling or severe abdominal pain.
• The urge to urinate frequently persists longer than 1 month.
• Excessive vaginal discharge persists beyond 1 month after surgery.