Myomectomy

Removal of fibroids, which are non-cancerous tumors, from the wall of the uterus.

Parts of the Body Involved

Uterus

Reasons for Procedure

To relieve problems caused by fibroids without having to perform a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). These problems include:
  • Pelvic pain
  • Back pain
  • Pressure on the bladder
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding (often leading to anemia)
  • Difficulty becoming pregnant
  • Discomfort during sexual intercourse

Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure

  • Stress
  • Obesity
  • Chronic or recent illness
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Smoking
  • Use of narcotics or other mind-altering drugs
  • Use of certain prescription medications, including muscle relaxants and sedatives, anti-hypertensives, insulin, beta-adrenergic blockers, blood-thinning medications, and cortisone
  • Diabetes

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor will likely do the following:
  • Physical exam
  • Review of medications
  • Blood studies
  • D&C

Outcome

Full recovery from surgery will take about 4-6 weeks after open surgery, and 2-4 weeks after laparoscopic surgery. The first menstruation after surgery may be heavier than normal.

Eighty percent of the time, the symptoms caused by fibroid tumors are successfully controlled with this procedure. This may include a return to a normal menstrual cycle and the ability to become pregnant, unless the uterus had to be removed.

Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site
  • Excessive vaginal bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour) after surgery
  • Excessive vaginal discharge that continues beyond 1 month after surgery
  • Vaginal discharge has a foul odor
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Headaches, muscle aches, dizziness, or general ill feeling
  • Nausea, constipation, or abdominal swelling
  • Fibroid tumor symptoms return after surgery
  • Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting
  • Pain, burning, urgency, or frequency of urination or persistent bleeding in the urine
  • New, unexplained symptoms