Total Versus Subtotal Hysterectomy:a Randomised, Prospective Multicentre Study of the Effect on Urinary, Sexual and Bowel Function

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