Hysteroscopic Myomectomy

Hysteroscopic myomectomy is an outpatient procedure used to remove abnormal tissue growths called fibroids from the uterus (womb). It involves two steps. First, a doctor identifies the location of uterine fibroids using a hysteroscope, a type of telescope especially designed to view the inside of the uterus. Then, the uterine fibroids are removed with special tools attached to the end of the hysteroscope. It may take more than one procedure to remove all of the fibroid tissue.

The procedure does not require any incisions (cuts), and no hospital stay is needed. On average, it takes just 30-60 minutes. It is performed under local anesthesia with intravenous (IV) sedation or with general anesthesia. Prior to surgery, patients may be given a prescription for misoprostol, a medication that softens the cervix and allows easier access.

Most patients can drive and return to work the next day. In most cases, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication is all that’s needed (not narcotics), and it’s usually required for a few days only. Mild vaginal bleeding for several days is common but usually stops on its own. Patients with increasing pain or fever should contact their doctor.

Why choose UAB Medicine

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers complete women’s health care, delivered by physicians and nurses dedicated to excellence. Our doctors are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, so you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. Our program is consistently ranked among the best of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology provides services ranging from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complex gynecological concerns. Because UAB Medicine is a major center for research, patients may have access to promising new techniques and treatments not available at other medical centers. Our physicians are here for you at every stage of life – from your first gynecological exam and delivering your baby to helping guide you through menopause.

When needed, our program works closely with UAB Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI), which is staffed by nationally recognized physicians with years of experience in diagnosing and treating all types of infertility. We use a team approach that includes a reproductive endocrinologist, a urologist, genetic counselors, specialized nurses, and laboratory scientists.

A range of fertility treatments are available, including a type of surgery known as corrective microsurgery. For conditions that cannot be treated, procedures such as intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used to help a woman become pregnant. Our fertility experts will determine a treatment plan that is best suited for each individual patient.

Care Providers

Stefanie Fieno, CRNP Obstetrics and Gynecology Shweta Patel, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Videos

Resources

• Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
• National Institutes of Health

Related Specialties

• OBGYN Services
  Women & Infants Services