Abstract:
Despite the fact that vaginal hysterectomy is
acknowledged to be the fastest and least
expensive technique available to achieve removal
of the uterus and cervix, it is used in only 23 - 25%
of the hysterectomies performed. Traditionally,
many surgeons have avoided vaginal
hysterectomy or used it only in carefully selected
patients. Until recently, the procedure was rarely
used in patients who have difficult anatomy with
limited visibility, including those with narrow
vagina without uterine descent, an enlarged
uterus, extensive pelvic adhesions, or a history 'of
prior pelvic radiation. Other commonly cited
contraindications to the vaginal approach have
included nulliparity, obesity, or previous pelvic
surgery.
