HYSTERECTOMY: QUESTIONS OFTEN ASKED

Can you tell me about autologous blood transfusion in the lead-up to a hysterectomy?

Autologous blood transfusion is the transfusion of an individual's own blood during a surgical procedure. The blood is collected prior to surgery, a procedure that can be organised through a blood transfusion service or a hospital.

Autologous blood transfusion is usually suggested if a radical hysterectomy is proposed. This means that the surgeon intends removing the entire uterus, both ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, nearby lymph nodes and the upper portion of the vagina. However some surgeons recommend it 'just in case' for less major versions of the procedure. The amount of blood collected depends on the patient's weight and general health. If three units of blood is to be collected (a unit is 450 ml), this is done one unit at a time on three separate occasions, usually at weekly intervals. Iron supplements are usually advisable and will be prescribed by your doctor.

How much danger is involved in having a hysterectomy?

The risk to life is small — between one in 2000 and one in 5000 women who have a hysterectomy die as a result of it. The risk varies depending on the technique used, the skill of the surgical team and the reason for the hysterectomy. This is comparable to the risk of death for some other kinds of major surgery. Infection occurs after surgery in about one in twenty women, and about one in 300 sustains damage to the bladder, bowel or ureter. About one in ten women bleed after the operation. In most cases this is mild, but about one in 100 requires a blood transfusion and drainage of blood from the abdomen.

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