Total Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy refers to removal of all or part of the uterus. The uterus is made of two parts. There is the upper part or fundus of the uterus. The fundus of the uterus is composed of muscle and the uterine cavity. Inside the uterine cavity is where the endometrium or uterine lining is and also where the fetus grows in pregnancy. The uterine cavity is where normal menstrual bleeding comes from. Abnormalites of the uterus like fibroid tumors or abnormal endometrium arise from the fundus of the uterus.

The lower part of the uterus that attaches to the top of the vagina is called the cervix. The cervix normally functions to hold a pregnancy within the uterus. The cervix also functions to help support the organs of the pelvic floor like the vagina, bladder and rectum.

If a total hysterectomy is performed then the upper and lower portions of the uterus are removed. This would remove the fundus as well as the cervix. Total hysterectomy does not refer to removal of the ovaries and tubes. These organs may or may not be removed at the time of a total hysterectomy.