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Minimally Invasive Procedures for Hysterectomy -
Better for Women
Why a minimally invasive procedure (MIP) for hysterectomy? Research shows that MIP has potential to improve quality of care along with reduced pain, length of stay, and at times, reduced cost. Most importantly, professional organizations recommend it based on evidence of effectiveness. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists:
“Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the US. Approximately 600,000 hysterectomies are performed each year. The most common reason for hysterectomy is fibroids (40.7%), followed by endometriosis (17.7%), and uterine prolapse (14.5%). Hysterectomy can be performed by several methods: via an open incision in the abdomen; through small incisions in the abdomen with the aid of a laparoscope; or through a small incision in the vagina. The standard procedure to remove the uterus has been through an open incision in the abdomen, but it is more invasive and requires the longest recovery time when compared to newer techniques which generally have shorter hospital stays and a faster return to normal activity for women. However, current national data show that the standard abdominal hysterectomy method is performed in 66% of cases. Vaginal hysterectomy is performed in 22% of cases and laparoscopic hysterectomy in 12% of cases."
"Vaginal hysterectomy is better for women in terms of fewer complications and quicker recoveries compared with abdominal or laparoscopic surgery," says Cheryl B. Iglesia, MD, of Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC, and chair of ACOG's Committee on Gynecologic Practice. "Vaginal hysterectomy also is the most cost-effective method." (Source: ACOG)
This web section includes information and web resources to help PPOs provide better information and provider choice to patients, and makes suggestions for talking with payers about benefit design changes that promote better quality care for patients.
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