basic surgical options

• HYSTERECTOMY.
  
  This procedure involves the surgical removal of the uterus and is often accompanied by oophorectomy (the removal of the ovaries). With this procedure, fertility is not preserved.
  
  Other options may be available for many women, even some with large fibroids. They should discuss all possibilities with their physician.
  
  
• MYOMECTOMY.
  
  Myomectomy involves surgical removal only of one or more fibroids.
  
  It may be accomplished by performing a laparotomy (a procedure that uses a wide abdominal incision) or with less invasive surgical techniques such as laparoscopy and hysteroscopy.
  
  In such cases, unlike hysterectomy, fertility may be preserved.
  
  
• OTHER PROCEDURES.
  
  Endometrial ablation (destruction of the lining of the uterus) may be useful in women with small fibroids and heavy bleeding.
  
  Other investigative procedures include myolysis and uterine artery embolism, which apply unique techniques to shut off the blood supply to the fibroids.

Women should discuss each option with their physician. Deciding on the surgical procedure depends on the location, size, and number of fibroids and the experience of the physician.