| Now it's time to talk about the actual procedure your doctor has recommended for you.
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On the day of your operation, |
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you will be asked to put on a surgical gown. |
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You may receive a sedative by mouth and |
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an intravenous line may be put in. |
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You will then be transferred to the operating table. |
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In the operating room, a nurse will begin preparation by clipping or shaving the abdomen. |
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The anesthesiologist will begin to administer anesthesia - most probably general anesthesia. |
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The surgeon will then apply an antiseptic solution to the skin... |
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place a sterile drape around the operative site... |
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After allowing a few minutes for the anesthetic to take effect... |
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Your doctor will decide whether to make a vertical... |
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or horizontal incision. |
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An incision is made cutting through the skin and muscle of the abdomen. |
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Next, the surgeon will inspect the general condition of the abdominal organs. |
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Once the ovaries are exposed the uterus can then be separated from the bladder. |
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Next, the fallopian tubes are tied off and cut. |
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All arteries and veins connected to the uterus are tied off and cut as well. |
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Now the uterus can be pulled upward. This stretches the vagina |
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allowing the surgeon to cut the uterus free at the cervix. |
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The surgeon closes the top of the vagina with stitches, |
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and provides added support by attaching the ligaments that once held the uterus in place. |
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The incision is then closed... |
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and a drainage tube may be left inserted at the site. |
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Finally, a sterile bandage is applied. |
