Myomectomy

• Myomectomy involves the removal of uterine fibroids.
   The uterus, cervix, Fallopian tubes, ovaries and vagina
   all remain intact.

• Fibroids are lumps which form in the wall of the uterus.
   They can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and are
   occasionally painful, especially in pregnancy. Fibroids
   occur for no apparent reason, and are completely non-
   cancerous.

• The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic,
   and the time taken wili depend on the number and size
   of the fibroids to be removed, but is usually 1-2 hours.

• During the operation, a catheter may be passed up the
   urethra into the bladder to draln off the urine. A plastic
   tube may also be inserted into the wound to remove any
   slight bleeding. These tubes will be left in place for 24-
   48 hours.

• There is a small chance that a hysterectomy may be
   needed, if any bleeding cannot be stopped.

• Patients may develop a temperature immediately after
   the operation, but this is quite normal. Although there will
   be some discomfort following surgery, this will be
   controlled with pain killers. Vaginal bleeding may also
   occur, but is usually light.

• The average length of stay in hospital is 5-7 days and
   normal activities can be resumed within 6-8 weeks.

• There should be no problems with sexual intercourse
   following the operation.