Removal of the uterus, and in some cases, the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

The surgery is usually performed in women over forty, for medical reasons, such as fibroids, endometriosis, uterine prolapse, persistent vaginal bleeding and chronic pelvic pain, or if the patient does not wish to become pregnant.
A total abdominal hysterectomy is recommended if the patient has very large fibroids that have not responded to hormone therapy or are difficult to remove vaginally. It may be the preferred method if the patient suffers from severe endometriosis, pelvic infections, scarring from prior pelvic surgeries or some cancer types.

The surgeon performs a hysterectomy by laparotomy (open surgery), opening the abdomen with an incision of fifteen to twenty centimetres. This surgical technique is used when there is the suspicion of pre-malignant or malignant growth.

The doctor will indicate requirements, specific to each pacient.

A hysterectomy involves both major and minor risks, but most women do not have problems either during or after surgery.
However the following may occur:
• Blood loss requiring blood transfusion
• Injury to the intestines, bladder or ureters
• Anaesthetic problems
• A need to alter the abdominal incision during surgery
• An open lesion.

It is important for the patient to move about as soon as possible in order to prevent blood clot formation in the legs. It is recommended the patient take small steps at home. Once bowel function is restored, the patient should start a normal diet. The patient should not lift weights in the weeks after surgery and, in addition, should avoid sexual intercourse for six to eight weeks.

A complete recovery takes five to eight weeks.