Myomectomy - Removal of Fibroids

This is an operation that removes a fibroid from the uterus. It involves the wall of the uterus being cut open to expose the fibroid. The fibroid is then “shelled” out from the surrounding normal uterine muscle. Following the removal of one or more fibroids the defect in the uterus is repaired.

The operation usually requires a laparotomy (abdominal operation) but can be performed using keyhole techniques.   See laparoscopy information sheet for further material

Risks

The Risks of the operation include:

• Bleeding which may be severe and require a blood transfusion or result in an emergency hysterectomy
• Infection
• Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Scar tissue and adhesions which may impair fertility
• In a subsequent pregnancy, a caesarean section may be recommended in some cases only to avoid uterine rupture during labour.

Due to these and other possible pregnancy complications it may berecommended to avoid surgery until after your family is completed.

However, the benefits may be thought to outweigh the risks if you have large fibroids that may be impairing your fertility or causing significant symptoms.

After a myomectomy, fibroids may recur in 25% of women.

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

Length of Hospital Stay

You will usually go home within 3 days of surgery.

Post Operative Pain

Within a day of laparoscopic myomectomy most patients require only oral pain medication. 

Mobility

Showering and walking short distances within 24 hours

Return to work

Patients can return to non-strenuous employment within a few weeks of surgery. (Usually 3-4 weeks)
Light duties can be started within 2 weeks.

Abdominal Myomectomy

Length of Hospital Stay

You will usually go home within 3-5 days

Post operative pain     

Patients usually require 48 hours of injections (i.e pethidine, morphine) given either intravenously, subcutaneously or intramuscularly for pain relief. 

Mobility

Showering and walking short distances within 24-36 hours

Return to work  

Patients can return to non-strenuous employment within 4-6 weeks of surgery.
Light duties can be started within 3-4 weeks