$Unique_ID{BRK01061}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Is Endometriosis Best Treated by Hysterectomy?}
$Subject{hysterectomy endometriosis}
$Volume{J-14}
$Log{
Figure 1*0009001.scf
Figure 2*0010201.scf
Figure 3*0010202.scf
Figure 4*0008601.scf
Figure 5*0008602.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Endometriosis Best Treated by Hysterectomy?


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QUESTION:  I am aware that many times hysterectomies are performed with little
reason, or perhaps with insufficient reason.  My sister, with a diagnosis of
endometriosis was told that her condition is best treated by this operation.
Is that true?  What are the proper reasons for this procedure?

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ANSWER:  Endometriosis is one of several "proper" reasons a doctor may suggest
a hysterectomy.  The removal of the uterus can relieve chronic pain, excessive
bleeding, and it can even rid patients of life-threatening diseases, such as
cancer of the cervix, cancer of the ovaries, and endometrial cancer and
chronic pelvic inflammatory disease.
     The most common reasons for hysterectomy are fibroids.  These are benign
tumors or fibrous and muscular tissue which may develop in the muscular wall
of the womb.  While fibroids are not usually life threatening, they often
cause pain, excessive menstrual bleeding and may become very large.
     Women with endometriosis may experience pelvic pain, abnormal uterine or
rectal bleeding or pressure within the pelvic cavity.  In this disease clumps
of cells that behave like the inner lining of the uterus (this lining is
called the endometrium) begin growing in various places outside of the uterus.
These clumps attach themselves to other organs, such as the ovaries, tubes,
bladder and rectum and also form bonds between two organs called adhesions.
The only absolute cure for endometriosis is removal of the uterus and both
tubes and ovaries.
     Hysterectomies are usually performed through an incision in the abdominal
wall, but they are sometimes performed through the vaginal opening.  Either
way, they are usually very successful and have important benefits to the
patients who really need them.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
