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All you need to know about Radical Hysterectomy: Procedure, side effects & costs

Team AckoJun 26, 2024

When it comes to women's health, few decisions are as important and difficult as getting a radical hysterectomy. It's a decision that often comes with a mix of emotions, doctor's appointments, and personal thoughts. It forces women to go through new and unfamiliar things with courage.

The term "radical hysterectomy" might make people feel scared or uncertain at first, but it really means a journey of getting better. Even though the procedure is pretty common, a lot of people are unaware of what it entails. Apart from physical changes, the surgical procedure can also lead to several emotional issues.

In this blog, you will get a comprehensive idea about the concept of radical hysterectomy. From the types to the side effects, we will cover it all to help you make an informed decision before undergoing this process. So, let’s get started.

Radical

Contents

What is a Radical Hysterectomy?
Types of Radical Hysterectomy procedures
- 1. Abdominal Radical Hysterectomy
- 2. Minimally invasive radical hysterectomy
When is Radical Hysterectomy recommended?
Risks associated with a Radical Hysterectomy
Disadvantages of a Radical Hysterectomy
Long-Term Side Effects of a Radical Hysterectomy
Pre-Procedure guidelines
Post-Operative guidelines
Things to remember after undergoing a Radical Hysterectomy
How much does a Radical Hysterectomy cost in India?
Will Health Insurance Cover the Cost of a Radical Hysterectomy?
Frequently asked questions

What is a Radical Hysterectomy?

Radical Hysterectomy, is a type of surgery that helps treat many gynaecological cancers, such as cervical and ovarian cancer. A surgeon performs this procedure to remove the parametrium, the uterus, the cervix, and a portion of the vagina (the connective tissue surrounding the cervix). The fallopian tubes, lymph nodes surrounding, and ovaries can all be removed if necessary. A Radical Hysterectomy usually has no effect on a patient's sexual ability, although it does prevent a woman from getting pregnant. Thus, before selecting a course of therapy, a patient is advised to thoroughly assess all of her available options with a gynaecological oncologist (a doctor that specialises in the field of cancers of the female reproductive organs). There are various fertility-preserving alternatives to a Radical Hysterectomy. The best course of action can differ from patient to patient and will rely on a woman's age, medical history, and preferences. It can also depend on her precise diagnosis.

Types of Radical Hysterectomy procedures

The two primary types of Radical Hysterectomy procedures are as follows.

1. Abdominal Radical Hysterectomy

After a general examination under anaesthesia, the abdomen is opened with a low transverse or vertical abdominal incision. The operation is thoroughly examined in the abdominal and pelvic area to see if there was any sign of cancer. Then the uterus and surrounding organs are removed.

2. Minimally invasive radical hysterectomy

According to research studies on patients with early-stage cervical cancer, minimally invasive or Laparoscopic radical hysterectomy has certain medical advantages. It has been linked to reduced blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a lower risk of post-operative problems as compared to abdominal Radical Hysterectomy.

When is Radical Hysterectomy recommended?

Your doctor may recommend a Radical Hysterectomy if you have any of the following medical issues.

Cancer: If you have cancer (or pre-cancer) in the endometrium, ovary, uterus, or cervix, a Radical Hysterectomy might be your best option. Chemotherapy and radiation are potential additional treatment choices. Your doctor will discuss the sort of cancer you have and its stage with you.

Endometriosis: Endometriosis develops when the tissue that borders the uterus spreads to the ovaries. This is not normal. Significant discomfort and bleeding between periods may result from this condition.

Uterine fibroids : Non-cancerous growths in the uterine wall are known as uterine fibroids. They can cause pain or significant bleeding in some women.

Uterine prolapse : This is when the uterus drops into the vagina from its usual position. It can occur after menopause or as a result of obesity, but it is more prevalent in women who have had several vaginal births. Prolapse can cause pelvic pressure and bowel and urine issues.

Severe bleeding :An infection, cancer, fibroids, or changes in hormone levels can all result in significant, prolonged bleeding.

Adenomyosis : This disorder causes the uterine lining tissue to develop abnormally inside the uterine walls. The uterine walls thicken, resulting in acute discomfort and excessive bleeding.

Risks associated with a Radical Hysterectomy

The following risks are associated with Radical Hysterectomy.

Severe bleeding
Reaction to anaesthesia
Pain during sexual intercourse
Early menopause
Infection
Accidental injury to other organs during the surgery
Loss of bladder control
Blood clots
Vaginal dryness
Weight gain
Fistula

Disadvantages of a Radical Hysterectomy

This particular procedure takes longer than other hysterectomy procedures, but it is quicker than a total hysterectomy. If the surgeon is not experienced, there is a risk of injury such as intestinal, urinary tract, or ureteral damage.

Some women may require self-catheterization if they have trouble urinating while their nerves are healing post-surgery. If this issue persists for weeks, it could lead to long-term damage. The surgery may shorten the vagina and lead to numbness in the genital area, potentially affecting a woman's sexual life.

Long-Term Side Effects of a Radical Hysterectomy

Some long-term side effects associated with undergoing a radical hysterectomy are as follows:

Spotting or pink discharge for around 6 weeks
Hot flashes
Trouble sleeping
Joint discomfort
Weakened pelvic muscles and ligaments supporting the vagina, bladder, and rectum

Pre-Procedure guidelines

Preparing for a radical hysterectomy involves several important steps. These typically include a physical examination to assess your overall health, a pelvic exam, and blood and urine tests. Your surgeon will also go over your complete medical history with you.

It's important to note that you may be advised to quit smoking at least 6 weeks before the surgery. Smoking can cause complications during the operation and may slow down the healing process.

Additionally, you will need to fast for at least 12 hours before the procedure. Your doctor may recommend taking a laxative to ensure your bowels are completely emptied before the surgery.

They might also prescribe medications to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during the procedure. Lastly, you will have a discussion with your anaesthetist to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Post-Operative guidelines

After a radical hysterectomy, you will need to stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days for monitoring and to receive pain and infection prevention medications. It is important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks post-surgery and to refrain from tub baths during this time.

You may need to follow a liquid diet temporarily. A catheter will be inserted to allow urine drainage, which will be removed the day after the surgery.

Your incision will be covered with surgical dressing or glue. Moreover, you may need to use sanitary napkins if vaginal bleeding occurs for a few weeks after the procedure.

Following surgery, it's common to experience constipation because of the medications and limited movement. Consuming plenty of fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, along with staying hydrated, can prevent constipation. If these methods don't work or the constipation gets worse, the doctor may recommend a stool softener or a laxative.

Things to remember after undergoing a Radical Hysterectomy

After your procedure, you'll need to remain in the hospital for 1 to 3 days. When you are released, your doctor will give you specific instructions for better recovery. For example:

Following a Radical Hysterectomy, plenty of rest is essential for the first several weeks.
Walking around the house will help to stop blood clots from forming.
Avoid lifting heavy objects.
Take the prescribed medicines as per schedule.
Avoid intercourse for at least six weeks after the procedure.
Do not miss your follow-up appointments.

How much does a Radical Hysterectomy cost in India?

The following table lists the approximate cost of undergoing a Radical Hysterectomy in India.

City	Approximate cost in rupees*
Ghaziabad	40,000
Jaipur	55,000
Lucknow	65,000
Ahmedabad	70,000
Pune	95,000
New Delhi	1,04,100
Bengaluru	1,16,000
Kolkata	1,20,000
Hyderabad	1,30,000
Chennai	1,50,000
Mumbai	1,50,000

*The costs are subject to change.

Will Health Insurance Cover the Cost of a Radical Hysterectomy?

In India, radical hysterectomy is covered by health insurance policies that include coverage for surgical procedures. Some women's health insurance policies also cover radical hysterectomy expenses.

However, health insurance coverage for radical hysterectomy is not immediate. It is subject to a waiting period determined by the policy terms and conditions. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly review the policy documents.

If radical hysterectomy surgery is medically necessary due to a pre-existing condition before purchasing the health insurance policy, it may be considered a pre-existing condition and might not be covered by the policy.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some common questions you may have if you are considering a Radical Hysterectomy or if you have undergone this procedure.

What happens to the internal organs after a Radical Hysterectomy?

After a Hysterectomy, the remaining abdominal and pelvic organs will move slightly to fill the space. Along with other concerns, this change may result in the loss of bladder control. You can avoid these issues by maintaining strong pelvic floor muscles with the help of Kegel exercises.

Will my ovaries be removed by the surgeon when I get a Hysterectomy?

After discussing the pros and cons with your doctor, you can decide whether to keep or remove your ovaries. The choice may also be influenced by the underlying medical condition leading to a Radical Hysterectomy.

What happens to the cervix after a Radical Hysterectomy?

The cervix (upper end of the vaginal canal) is closed with the help of stitches after a Radical Hysterectomy.

Will a Hysterectomy affect my sex life?

A Hysterectomy may not affect your sex life severely. In fact, as a Hysterectomy reduces discomfort or severe vaginal bleeding, many women report improved sex life following the procedure. However, it may take time for things to return to normal.

What distinguishes a Drastic Hysterectomy from a Basic Hysterectomy?

In a Basic Hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed. On the other hand, a Radical Hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus along some tissue from the cervix. The uterus is removed through a lower abdomen incision that resembles one used during a C-section. Radical Hysterectomies are frequently used in treating cancer.

What are the positive aspects of a Radical Hysterectomy?

After a Hysterectomy, positive physical and psychological effects are frequently felt in a short amount of time. If you had cramps, heavy bleeding, or persistent discomfort before surgery, you'd probably notice a slow improvement in these symptoms within a few weeks. Your sexual life can resume pretty much as it did before once your body has healed. You won't have to worry about birth control, and you won't ever have to track your periods again.