Abdominal hysterectomy
An operation to remove your uterus
An abdominal hysterectomy is also known as a total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) or a sub-total hysterectomy.
What is an abdominal hysterectomy?
An abdominal hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove your uterus through an incision in your lower abdomen. An abdominal hysterectomy can treat non-cancerous tumours called fibroids, endometriosis, heavy bleeding, pelvic pain and cancer.
The surgery is usually done laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) and is also undertaken using the daVinci Xi system, the latest robotic surgical technology.
During this operation your gynaecological surgeon may remove your cervix (neck of the womb) too. In some cases they might also need to remove your fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) and ovaries (oophorectomy).
Need to know
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What happens during surgery? icon plus
An abdominal hysterectomy involves a surgeon making a single cut in your abdomen to remove your uterus. Your surgeon will then close the cut using dissolvable stitches. An abdominal hysterectomy is carried out under general anaesthetic. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your surgeon will explain how to prepare for this operation. They'll also explain exactly what's going to happen during the procedure.
You may have to have an enema the day before the operation, and you might be asked not to eat or drink anything for a set time before your procedure.
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
After surgery icon plus
You will need to be cared for in hospital for up to five days after your operation. You may feel pain and discomfort in your abdomen a few days after the operation, and you'll probably experience some bleeding and discharge for a few weeks.
You won't be able to carry out strenuous activities or lift anything heavy for up to eight weeks after the operation, so you may want to arrange for a friend or relative to help you out at home after your hysterectomy.
You won't be able to drive immediately and it take four to six weeks until you can.
Depending on your job, you could go back to work up to eight weeks after. Your consultant will talk you through these details and let you know when you can get back to your usual routine.
Robotic technology in Gynaecology
A hysterectomy using a robot allows your gynaecologist to perform the procedure via a computer using laparoscopic tools to remove the uterus. At HCA UK we have invested in the latest robotic technology, the da Vinci Xi, to ensure your surgeon has access to offer the latest and most up-to-date gynaecology care available.
Some advantages of a abdominal hysterectomy being performed by robotic methods include shorter and less painful recovery and minimal scarring.
Our gynaecology consultants
Supporting our gynaecologists are teams of nurses and allied healthcare professionals who are experienced in supporting patients throughout their treatment and recovery
Our locations in London
From complex gynaecological surgery to diagnostic tests and minor procedures, we provide exceptional gynaecology care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Private abdominal hysterectomy in Birmingham
Book an appointment with a gynaecologist
Our team can help book a consultation with a gynaecologist in one of our HCA UK facilities in London, Birmingham or Manchester by phone or by completing our appointment request form.
Call us on
020 7079 4344