Background

It is uncertain whether subtotal abdominal hysterectomy results in better bladder, bowel, or sexual function than total abdominal hysterectomy.

Methods

The investigators conducted a randomized, double-blind trial comparing total and subtotal abdominal hysterectomy in 279 women referred for hysterectomy because of benign disease; most of the women were premenopausal. The main outcomes were measures of bladder, bowel, and sexual function at 12 months. The investigators also evaluated postoperative complications.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women having abdominal hysterectomy for benign conditions of the uterus

Exclusion Criteria:

• Suspected cancer
• A body weight that exceeded 100 kg
• Previous pelvic surgery
• Known endometriosis
• Abnormal cervical smears,
• Symptomatic uterine prolapse
• Symptomatic urinary incontinence