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What Is Fibroid Removal Surgery?
Fibroid removal surgery, which includes procedures like myomectomy and hysterectomy (in severe cases), is a specialised procedure to remove uterine fibroids—non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and reproductive issues. The surgery involves removing the fibroids while preserving the uterus (myomectomy) or, in some cases, removing the entire uterus (hysterectomy). Fibroids vary in size and number, and surgical intervention is often recommended when they significantly affect a woman’s health or quality of life.
By addressing the root cause, fibroid surgery can restore normal uterine function and improve a patient’s overall well-being.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (also known as uterine myomas or leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths formed of muscle and fibrous tissue that grow in and around the uterus. They are very common and often don’t cause any symptoms. However when they do, these include:
- Painful or heavy periods
- Abdominal pain
- Lower back pain
- Frequent urination
- Pain or discomfort during sex
If a fibroid grows very large, you may also notice swelling in your abdomen. Fibroids can grow anywhere in the uterus and vary from the size of a pea to the size of a melon.
There are three main types:
- Intramural – the most common type of fibroid. These develop in the muscle wall of the womb.
- Subserosal – these develop on the outside of the uterus and can grow to a very large size.
- Submucosal – these develop in the muscle layer below the inner lining of the uterus and grow into your womb.
In some cases, fibroids are connected to the uterus by a stalk of tissue. These are known as pedunculated fibroids.
The exact cause of fibroids is not known, but they are linked to oestrogen. As such, fibroids can shrink, especially after the menopause when oestrogen levels decrease.
How Much Does Fibroid Removal Surgery Cost?
£6,775
The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge.
Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee.
Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fibroid Removal Surgery
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), a well-connected area of North West London. We are conveniently accessible for patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6), and the surrounding areas.
- St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital.
- Finchley Road (NW3) and Kilburn stations (NW6) on the Jubilee Line provide excellent connections.
By Bus:
- Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, 82, and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station, just a short walk from the hospital.
- Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187 stop close to the hospital’s Circus Road entrance.
- Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189 stop near the junction where Grove End Road becomes Abbey Road, providing easy access.
Major Roads:
If you’re travelling from NW3 or NW6, major routes such as Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road offer a direct approach to the hospital.
Our hospital’s location ensures convenient access for patients across London, particularly those in NW8, NW3, and NW6 postcodes.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. These benign tumours, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, can vary greatly in size, from tiny seedlings undetectable by the human eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. While some women with fibroids experience no symptoms, others may suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. In some cases, fibroids can lead to complications such as infertility or pregnancy issues.
Fibroids are quite common, affecting up to 70-80% of women by the age of 50. They are most prevalent in women of reproductive age, particularly those in their 30s and 40s. Factors such as family history, obesity, and hormonal imbalances can increase the likelihood of developing fibroids.
Types of Myomectomy
Myomectomy is a surgical procedure specifically designed to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it an ideal option for women who wish to maintain their fertility. There are three main types of myomectomy:
- Abdominal Myomectomy: This traditional open surgery involves making an incision in the lower abdomen to access and remove fibroids. It is often recommended for large fibroids or when multiple fibroids are present.
- Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A minimally invasive procedure where small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is used to remove the fibroids. This method typically results in shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain.
- Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: This technique is used for fibroids located within the uterine cavity. A hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix, allowing the surgeon to remove fibroids without any abdominal incisions.
Choosing the right type of myomectomy depends on various factors, including the size, number, and location of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s overall health and reproductive goals. Consulting with a skilled surgeon can help determine the most appropriate approach for successful fibroid removal.
Medications can play a crucial role in managing the symptoms of uterine fibroids. Commonly prescribed drugs include hormonal treatments such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, which can shrink fibroids by reducing estrogen and progesterone levels. Birth control pills and progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help control heavy menstrual bleeding and pain.
Non-hormonal options, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. While medications can effectively manage symptoms, they do not eliminate fibroids and are often used as a temporary solution or in conjunction with other treatments. It’s important to discuss potential side effects and long-term plans with your healthcare provider.
If your fibroid isn’t causing symptoms, treatment isn’t necessary. However, if symptoms develop or impact your quality of life, book an appointment with one of our experienced gynaecologists. During your consultation, they’ll take a detailed medical history, assess your symptoms, and perform an ultrasound scan to confirm the diagnosis and provide guidance on the next steps.
Your gynaecologist will conduct a physical examination and an ultrasound scan to confirm the presence of fibroids. The scan identifies the fibroid’s location, size, and type, helping your doctor determine the best treatment plan. If symptoms are manageable, medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain or heavy periods, or to shrink the fibroid.
Preparation involves pre-operative tests, such as MRSA testing, and using antibacterial soap and lotions to reduce infection risk. If you take blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin or aspirin), let your gynaecologist know, as you may need to stop or modify their use. On the day of surgery, you’ll need to fast for six hours before the procedure and only drink water up to four hours prior. Wear loose clothing and bring essential items like prescription medications and toiletries.
Medically reviewed by Mr Emeka Okaro - MBBS FRCOG on 17/01/2024