QUESTION: It is probably only a difference in terminology and are really the same thing, but I need to know the difference between a "myomectomy" and a "hysterectomy".
My medical dictionary didn't make it clear enough.
Please help.
ANSWER: No they are not the same thing at all, although both are surgical operations, both deal with the same organ, the uterus, and both terms frequently occur in the same discussion.
A hysterectomy refers to the surgical removal of the uterus (the word "hystera" in Greek means uterus). Frequently, the uterus forms benign tumors of muscle and fibrous tissue, in a condition commonly referred to as "fibroids" or "a fibroid uterus".
These tumors are called "myomas" since "mys" in Greek means muscle.
When a patient suffers from this condition, the surgeon has two choices.
If the tumors are small, but creating problems such as cramps and bleeding, only the tumor need be removed (hence myomectomy).
But when the tumors are large, and are continuing to grow and cause suffering and pain, and particularly when the patient no longer wishes to bear children, a hysterectomy may be performed to solve the problem.
A well informed patient may have a choice in the decision, provided these terms are not "Greek" to her.
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.
