Colpohysterectomy is a medical term used to describe the surgical removal of the uterus and cervix through the vagina. Pronounced as /kɒlpəʊhɪˈstɛrɛktəmi/, this word consists of five syllables and can be broken down into three parts - "colpo" meaning vagina, "hystero" meaning uterus and "ectomy" meaning surgical removal. The IPA phonetic transcription indicates that the emphasis should be on the second syllable, and the vowels and consonants should be pronounced as follows: "k-ah-l-p-ow-h-ih-s-t-eh-r-eh-k-t-uh-m-iy".
Colpohysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and partial or complete removal of the vagina (colpectomy). It is commonly performed to treat various gynecological conditions, including cancer of the uterus (endometrial or uterine cancer), cervix, or vagina, as well as certain non-cancerous conditions like uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, or pelvic organ prolapse.
During a colpohysterectomy, a surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen or vagina to access the reproductive organs. The uterus is then detached from surrounding tissues, blood vessels are sealed off to minimize bleeding, and the uterus is carefully removed. If the surgeon determines that a complete vaginal removal is necessary, a colpectomy is performed in addition to the hysterectomy.
Colpohysterectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be done using open surgery or minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery. The choice of approach depends on the patient's overall health, the extent of the condition, and the surgeon's preference.
Recovery from colpohysterectomy varies depending on the surgical technique used and the patient's individual healing capacity. It may involve some pain and discomfort, as well as a temporary decrease in energy levels. Postoperative care usually includes pain management, rest, wound care, and gradually resuming normal activities under the guidance of the surgeon.
It's important for individuals undergoing a colpohysterectomy to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. While the procedure is generally safe, it carries potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Hysterectomy, performed through the vagina.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "colpohysterectomy" is a medical term that is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Colpos" (κόλπος) - which means "vagina" in Greek.
2. "Hystera" (ὑστέρα) - which means "uterus" in Greek.
Therefore, "colpohysterectomy" refers to the surgical removal of both the vagina and uterus.