I trained in laparoscopic hysterectomy but prefer the minimally invasive vaginal approach. My abdominal hysterectomy rate is less than 5%, while the vaginal rate is 95%. Because I work in a small hospital, there are not enough cases requiring laparoscopy for me to remain proficient in it. Vaginal hysterectomy takes about 15 minutes, can be done as an outpatient procedure, and involves little postoperative pain (the endostapler does not bunch the tissue). I rely on the vaginal approach unless the uterus is 5 months’ size or larger.
R. Brandon, MD
St. Mary’s, Ga