Definition

Myomectomy is the removal of fibroids from the wall of the uterus (womb). Fibroids are noncancerous tumors in the muscle of the uterus. An open surgery uses an incision large enough to remove the fibroids.

Uterine Fibroid Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Reasons for Procedure

This procedure is done to relieve problems caused by fibroids without doing a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). These problems can are:

• Pelvic pain
• Back pain
• Pressure on the bladder
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Heavy periods
• Difficulty becoming pregnant
• Discomfort during sex

Possible Complications

Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:

• Excess bleeding
• Problems from anesthesia, such as wheezing or sore throat
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Recurrence of fibroids
• Damage to other organs
• Severe scarring, resulting in pain, bowel blockage, or infertility
• Uterine wall weakness
• Need for special care in pregnancy, such as the need to deliver by cesarean section

Things that may raise the risk of problems are:

• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Chronic diseases, such as diabetes or obesity

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

Call the doctor if you are not getting better or you have:

• Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incisions
• Pain that you cannot control with the medicine you have been given
• Vaginal bleeding that soaks more than one pad per hour
• Foul smelling vaginal discharge
• Swelling, redness, or pain in the legs
• Pain, burning, urgency or frequency of urination, or lasting blood in the urine
• New or worsening symptoms

If you think you are having an emergency, call for medical help right away.