What should you know about robotic surgery for uterine fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the muscle of the uterus. Their size, number and position can contribute to heavy periods, bleeding between periods, pelvic pressure, painful periods, pelvic pain or trouble getting pregnant. Robotic access may be used for a myomectomy, which removes fibroids while leaving the uterus, or for a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus.

The choice depends on symptoms, examination and imaging, age, general health and pregnancy plans. Removing fibroids does not always prevent new fibroids from developing. Ask how the operation could affect fertility and future pregnancy.

Bring a list of medicines and describe bleeding, pain, pressure, bladder or bowel changes and fertility goals. Ask whether medicines, observation, a Hormonal Coil, another procedure or surgery could fit your situation. If surgery is planned, discuss blood tests, anaesthesia, incision care, activity limits and how pain will be managed.

Arrange transport and support at home. Walk gently as advised, protect the wounds and avoid lifting until your team allows it. Recovery differs between myomectomy and hysterectomy and may also depend on the number and location of fibroids.

After surgery, contact your team for fever, worsening pain, increasing wound redness, discharge, repeated vomiting, difficulty urinating or bleeding that concerns you. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting or sudden one-sided leg swelling. Before treatment, urgent assessment is needed for very heavy bleeding with weakness, dizziness or faintness.

How many fibroids do I have, and where are they? Is my goal symptom relief, fertility preservation or both? Would myomectomy or hysterectomy be appropriate? What alternatives exist? Could the operation change the chance of pregnancy? What symptoms after surgery should prompt a call?