An audit of gynaecological hysterectomies in the university of Uyo teaching hospital: Case for non-descent vaginal hysterectomy

Abstract

Hysterectomy is the commonest gynaecological surgery. The study aimed to determine the rates and compare the outcomes of the different routes, and ascertain the visibility of an option. A 5-year retrospective study of all hysterectomies at the University of Uyo teaching hospital: their routes and associated morbidities; and assess the possibility of the vaginal route in total abdominal hysterectomies using a checklist designed for the study. 116 hysterectomies accounted for 27.9% of major gynaecological surgeries. 107 (92.2%) were for benign gynaecological conditions. Twenty-six (22.41%) hysterectomies were vaginal with uterovaginal prolapse as the sole indication. The peak age range of women who had vaginal hysterectomy was 50-59 years (46.2%), mean, 53.8years. Vaginal hysterectomy was associated with fewer complications, X2/P-value of 16,091/0.01.6. Twenty-nine (35.80%) total abdominal hysterectomies could have been carried out vaginally. There was under-utilisation of the vaginal route even in the absence of major contraindications to it. There is therefore an urgent need for a survey amongst gynaecologist to investigate the reasons for restrictive use of vaginal hysterectomy especially non descent procedures.