Alternatives to Hysterectomy Could Be Pursued More Often

Hysterectomy is the most common major gynecologic operation in the U.S., yet medical and minor surgical alternatives can be as effective for some patients. Using data from the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative, investigators analyzed records of 3400 women undergoing benign hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding, uterine fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, or a combination of these conditions to determine evidence of medical management or minor procedures prior to hysterectomy.

At least one alternative treatment was identified in 62% of cases (among the majority of these, only one therapy was pursued). Women younger than 40 were more likely to have alternative treatment than those aged 40 or older. Overall, only 12% of wom…